When it comes time to take down a tree or two in your yard, it’s important to pick the right tree removal company on Long Island. You want one that is safe, experienced, and professional. It’s also vital to know the company you hire has the right credentials, has knowledge about the specific problem you have, and that they know what to look out for, for example underground lines that they need to be cautious about.
Below we listed five questions you need to ask your tree removal company before you hire them.
1. Do you have a license and liability insurance for tree removal?
Very important. Ask and verify if they are licensed and insured. You also want to know exactly what to expect if they accidentally damage something on your property while taking down a tree or if someone gets hurt. Get the facts and check their credentials before even getting an estimate.
2. How long will the work take?
Obviously, there is no standard answer. It depends on how complex the job will be (see question five below). Don't let a fly-by-night company tell you they will do a quick removal even before they get to your property to assess the work.
3. Will you give me an estimate?
Always ask for an estimate from your tree removal company. Know that they have covered every cost and service you expect. What about the stump? Will they do stump grinding or will you have to hire another company to do that? Is there an extra fee? And make sure you account for debris removal. Get it all in writing before you hire a tree cutting company and make sure you get all your questions answered. You don’t want any surprises.
4. Can you provide references?
Most professional tree cutting companies will gladly tell you all about all the jobs they’ve done, and show pictures! You can also find out if they will provide personal references and testimonials - usually found right on their website. Look online for reviews on your own as well - check Google and Facebook.
5. Have you ever handled this specific type of job before?
There are many reasons that you want or need to remove a tree from your property. Some are aesthetic and some are emergency situations. You want to ask the tree removal service if they have experience with your specific project. Maybe the tree is dying or it’s too close to your house and you want to have it removed before the next storm. If a tree already fell on your property and damaged your home, you want to know if the tree service can handle insurance claims. Or even dangerous situations where a tree is leaning on an active power line. Every project is unique and you want to know the tree cutting company you hire can handle the job.