Hiring a tree service company can be risky; consider some tips

Trying to remove a tree on your own is a big risk. Lacking the correct equipment and knowledge of how to trim or get rid of a tree can lead to a disastrous outcome. Before you try to take on the process yourself, consider hiring a tree service company.

Tree services can offer tree cutting, removal, stump grinding, brush removal, land clearing, general tree care and even emergency services. Determining your needs and finding a trustworthy company is crucial. However, not every tree service company is legit.

In 2022, the Better Business Bureau received 63 complaints about tree service companies in the Miami Valley, a 19% increase from 2021. Out of over 900 tree service companies in the Miami Valley, only 116 are BBB Accredited.

BBB offers these tips when hiring a tree service company:

■ Look at websites and online reviews.

■ Ask family and friends for recommendations.

■ Ask for references and call them to ask about their experience.

■ Consider how long the companies have been operating and their reputation.

■ Do an Internet search of the company name and words like “complaints,” “reviews” or “scam.”

■ Get at least three quotes. Compare the quotes based on the same specifications and make sure the companies have proper equipment to perform the job quoted. Don’t assume tree stump removal is included if not specified.

■ Ask questions. (Do the employees undergo a background check? Will they be wearing name tags and uniforms? What safety standards are followed? Are they equipped with protective gear? Are the company vehicles clearly marked?) If there’s hesitancy to answer your questions, you may want to continue your search.

■ Be sure companies are properly licensed, insured and registered as required.

■ Determine if companies are members of professional associations, which have standards or codes of ethics.

■ Check whether the company employs certified arborists, which have adequate training and knowledge of specific trees.

■ Ask how the tree service will minimize damage during the process.

■ Get everything in writing, including verbal agreements. The contract should detail the costs, the work to be done, and the starting and end dates.

■ Stagger your payments according to work stages and don’t make a final payment until the job is completed.

For more information about tree services, visit bbb.org or call 937222-5825 or 800-776-5301. BBB can provide a list of BBB Accredited tree services and profiles on ones you may be considering.