How do I check that a tree service is insured?

Tree work is risky for crews and for your property, so proof of insurance matters more than almost any other thing you check. The standard proof is a certificate of insurance. Any real company can ask its insurance agent to email one to you, usually the same day. It costs the company nothing, so a good company will not mind.

Read the certificate. Check the company name matches the name on your quote. Check the policy dates cover the day of the job. Look for general liability, which pays if the crew damages your house, car or fence. Look for workers' compensation if the company has employees, which pays if a worker is hurt on your land.

Then do the step most people skip. Call the insurance company or agent named on the certificate and ask if the policy is active. A certificate can be old or changed. A short call takes five minutes.

Be careful with any company that says its workers are all "subcontractors" or "day labor" and so do not need cover. Ask what happens if someone gets hurt on your property.

This is a short explanation, not legal or insurance advice. Your own insurance agent can tell you how your policy treats injuries and damage from contractors.