When searching for tree services, customers should evaluate many factors. The best way to start is by requesting quotes from several companies. When evaluating quotes, ensure each company includes a detailed breakdown of charges. This will help prevent surprise fees down the road. Customers should also look for insurance coverage, such as liability and worker’s compensation.
Experience
When choosing a tree service, for example, Tree Work Now, look for one that employs arborists certified through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). This certification indicates that the company follows the proper procedures when working with trees. Additionally, they should have a valid license to perform tree services on residential and commercial properties. Also, ask about the company’s credentials and insurance coverage. A good tree service should have liability and worker’s compensation insurance. In addition, they should use the appropriate equipment for each job and offer clean-up services. Avoid companies that advertise poor pruning practices like “topping” or lion’s-tailing, as these methods are not considered industry standards and can damage your tree. Moreover, a reliable tree service should offer a reasonable price for their work.
Reputation
A good tree service company should have a solid reputation on the internet. Potential customers searching for a local tree service will most likely look at a business’s website and its reviews. How a company is managed, its workers treat customers, and the quality of work it performs all contribute to its reputation. The best companies strive to provide exceptional customer service and are unafraid to be open with their clients about their services and what to expect. It is a good idea for a tree service business to use an automated system to send email surveys to their customers after each service. This helps diffuse situations that lead to one-star reviews and allows businesses to address issues. It also encourages more customers to write a review and helps them increase their average star rating.
BBB Accreditation
BBB accreditation indicates that the tree service you’re considering has been vetted and follows best business practices. The organization should have a logo and a certificate displayed on its website. It’s also a good idea to look for a BBB-accredited business that belongs to a respected industry association, such as the Tree Care Industry Association or the International Society of Arboriculture. Companies that belong to these organizations are more likely to stay updated on the latest tree care techniques, which will benefit their customers. Also, make sure that the company is insured, which should be evidenced by a copy of their insurance policy sent directly from their insurance agency to you. Finally, never pay a sum upfront; stagger payments according to work stages. This will help protect you from scam artists who may disappear after making a large payment and not return to finish the job.
Certifications
Ask about their certifications if you are looking for a highly experienced and knowledgeable company about tree services. Companies certified by reputable organizations, such as the International Society of Arboriculture, the Tree Care Industry Association, and Accredited Businesses by the Better Business Bureau, are likelier to have current best practices and the knowledge to provide expert service. You may also want to determine whether they have liability insurance and worker’s compensation. This is important because you will be protected if something goes wrong while they are working on your property. Also, please request a copy of their certificate of insurance directly from their insurance agency and be sure it is dated for the current year. Also, look for them to have a website and social media channels where they can be found. This is a great way to gain more visibility in the community and build trust with potential customers.
Insurance
There is always a risk of property damage when tree service workers work on your home or yard. Those risks are much higher when the tree services company is uninsured. The best tree service companies will have general liability insurance, worker’s compensation, and commercial auto insurance in place. This protects the customer and the tree service company if any accident happens. A good tree service will also carry a certificate of insurance with the state to show that they are licensed and insured to work in your area. Some less reputable tree services need insurance, which can put everyone at risk, including the homeowner. An excellent way to find out if a tree service company is worth hiring is to ask them for references and reviews from past customers. This can help you avoid any scams or low-quality services.
