Fall brings need for yard-cleanup projects
Cool fall weather will be on its way in the next month or so, and it won’t be long before the leaves begin to fall. Between now and winter is when many property owners aim to get their yards in order, which includes pruning trees and removing fallen leaves, debris and branches.
Though there are many reliable companies that provide these services, there are also a few that are looking to be paid in full for services they have no plans to finish.
The Better Business Bureau of Houston and South Texas reminds people there are steps to take to ensure your yard is looking the way you want it to look. When you’re looking for a tree trimmer or a yard service, keep these things in mind:
• Hire a professional. Research companies for free at BBBHouston.org, where you also may use the Accredited Business Directory to find BBB Accredited Businesses. Make sure you know who you are dealing with and how to reach the business if problems arise. Ask for references from clients and verify the references.
• Be wary of door-to-door solicitations. Each year, countless homeowners have tree-trimming companies knock on their door and offer to provide their services at a discount. In too many cases, the work performed is shoddy or only partially completed — and the company fails to return as promised — forcing property owners to hire a reliable company to do the job right.
• Request an on-site inspection. The inspection should include the entire tree, not just parts that appear to be damaged, in poor condition or in danger of falling. The risk assessment can be done at the same time, and it helps consumers with multiple trees determine which are categorized as higher risk and thus need immediate attention. Estimates should be given only after an on-site inspection. Companies that give an estimate without a visual inspection cannot be sure of the scope of the work involved and consumers run the risk of paying more than they were quoted. Estimates should include all labor, clean-up and disposal charges.
• Get everything in writing. A contract should clearly state the services you will receive, as well as when the job is expected to be completed, payment terms and conditions, contact information for the company, phone number and address, as well as any refund or cancellation policy.
• Verify insurance coverage. Tree care can be dangerous if not done by trained experts. Confirm that the company has insurance that covers worker’s compensation, property damage and personal liability in case of accidents.
Never feel pressured to give anyone your business just because he or she is on your doorstep. Remember, for any sale made at your home, per Texas law, you still can cancel the contract within three days.
The Better Business Bureau is an unbiased nonprofit that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business. Every year, more than 87 million consumers rely on BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports to help them find trustworthy businesses and charities across North America. For information or to check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit www.bbbhouston.org, which includes our BBB Accredited Business Directory, or call 713-868-9500. Napoliello is senior director of Investigative Services with the Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas. Send questions regarding homeowner issues to Leah Napoliello, Better Business Bureau, 1333 West Loop South, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77027, or e-mail her at lnapoliello@bbbhou.org. Include address and phone number on letters and emails.