What questions should I ask a tree service before hiring?

A list of questions helps you compare quotes fairly. Ask every company the same things and write down the answers.

Ask what is included: how much of the tree is cut, whether the stump is ground, whether wood and chips are hauled away, and who cleans the yard and driveway. Ask whether the price can change if the job turns out bigger than expected.

Ask who will be on site. Is there a crew leader? Are the climbers trained and experienced? How will the crew handle work near power lines? Tree work near wires is for trained crews only, never for homeowners.

Ask for a certificate of insurance showing liability and workers' compensation. Ask whether they hold any license your state or city requires. This is general information, not legal advice.

Finally, ask for the start date, a written agreement, and how they want to be paid. A company that hesitates on any of these is telling you something.