Selecting a Reputable Tree Service Company

Disasters such as storms can affect you and your trees in many ways. You would want immediate help in times like this, but choosing the right tree service company is another challenge that you need to face. Sadly, there are tree service companies that take advantage of the situation and make money out of other people's emergency.

Be careful in dealing with tree companies after a natural disaster because some of them are just out to get your money. Consider these simple tips from Better Business Bureau to avoid falling victim to these scam businesses:

• Make sure that you inquire about insurance coverage and filing requirements when a disaster happens.
• It will help a lot if you refer to the BBB Accredited Business Directory when looking for a trustworthy company. BBB has ensured these companies have a license and insurance that is crucial for your protection.
• Compare three estimates from different tree companies. Ask for references so that you can check the kind of service they have provided their previous clients.
• Check with your local town if the tree company needs to be licensed or registered to be allowed to work in your city.
• Find out if the company you consider hiring is certified by a reputable association like the International Society of Arboriculture.
• You should ask the company if they have certified arborists on board. A professional arborist is essential in completing a tree service because they are knowledgeable about tree care, especially if the project is tree removal. This type of project requires skills because they will deal with heavy equipment and special techniques in removing the tree.
• Ensure that the company you wish to hire has liability insurance and workers compensation insurance. You should ask the company to send this information to you directly. If they don't do it, you should question their professionalism and trustworthiness.
• Demand a written contract with the company you will hire. Make sure that all their essential details are written in their contract. Never sign a blank contract and always ask for clarifications if there is something you don't understand.
• When you have decided on which tree company you will hire, never pay until the work is done. A good tree company will not ask for your money until they have made sure you are pleased with their service.
• After a disaster, you will want to go back to your normal life, so you want the tree damage to be handled right away. However, don't let this be an opportunity for con artists who are doing door-to-door to take advantage of you. Be objective and make sure to weigh everything before saying yes to any tree company.
• Do not forget to ask their method in completing the task. If you hired a tree service company to prune your tree, make sure that they will not use "topping" as their approach because this can harm your tree. It is vital for them to adhere to industry standards to ensure a quality outcome.