Tree service good way to keep your home safe, but be careful
Do you have trees down or damaged due to the recent tornadoes? Or, do you have a tree that needs to be trimmed or removed? Are you looking to plant a new tree in your yard?
You may need to look into a tree service to do the job. Hiring a tree service can be the safest and quickest way to deal with the needs of your trees. Plus, a tree service can help take care of your trees when you are on vacation, they aren’t healthy or you just need advice on their upkeep.
Your landscaping is one of the biggest assets associated with your home, accounting for as much as 30% of your home’s value, so it is important the people you hire to help you take care of it are from a company you can trust.
There are some great tree service companies that will meet or exceed your expectations. But, unfortunately, the bad guys in this industry make it difficult for the good guys to do business. They shed a negative light on the entire industry. But, by doing your homework and selecting your contractor carefully, you can save yourself time, money and headaches.
BBB offers these tips when shopping for a tree service:
■ Ask friends and family who they have hired and if they would work with that tree service in the future. Check online reviews of companies as well.
■ Get an estimate from at least three different services to compare prices and the scope of the job. Be sure to inquire what equipment each company will use, as well as how they intend to minimize damages to your yard. Don’t base your decision on the lowest estimate.
■ Consider reputation, years of service and service provided.
■ Be sure the company is following safety standards. The individuals completing the work on your property should have the proper personal protection equipment, such as safety glasses, ear protection, hardhats and chainsaw protection.
■ Be wary if approached by a tree service out of the blue saying you need immediate work done to one or more of your trees and get rushed into signing a contract. An honest company should not pressure you.
■ Do not hire a company asking to be paid upfront. Professionals in the tree service industry should not charge before the job is finished. Likewise, walk away if payment is required to be in cash or a check written to an individual.
There are over 120 BBB-accredited tree services in the Miami Valley. Your BBB can provide you with a list. Access our services at www.bbb.org. Or call 937-222-5825 or 800776-5301.