For tree service owners
How do I handle change orders on tree jobs?
Short answer
Put every extra in writing before the crew does it: what is added, what it costs and that the customer approves. A short signed note or a text or email reply is enough, and it stops the end-of-job argument about what was agreed.
By Umair Nawaz. Published October 25, 2026. General information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
The longer answer
Extras show up on many jobs: an extra limb, a stump the customer forgot, more debris than planned, a gate that has to come off. Decide the rule now and train your crew to follow it.
When something changes, the crew lead stops and calls the office or the customer. Explain what was found and why it changes the work. Then send a short written note: what is added, the price, and a request to approve. A text or email reply counts as a record. Keep it in the job file.
Never let the crew add work and sort out the money later. That is how invoices get disputed and reviews go bad. If the customer does not approve, the extra does not happen. Write that on the note and finish the original job.
Put the extras rule into your estimate terms and your crew checklist. This is general information, not legal advice. Ask a local lawyer to check your contract wording.
More answers for owners
- How do I keep a truck and trailer stocked and ready?Read the answer
- How do I keep good climbers and crew members?Read the answer
- How do I keep my tree service crews busy on rainy days?Read the answer
- How do I keep track of estimates that did not turn into jobs?Read the answer
- How do I keep track of missed calls and callbacks at my tree service?Read the answer
- How do I know if my tree service is missing calls?Read the answer
Own a tree service?
See where your calls and leads slip away
A free audit of your Google profile, website and missed-call handling. See what we set up and pricing.