Questions to ask a tree service before you hire

1. What is your full business name, and how long have you worked in this area?

Why it matters: A real name lets you look the company up, read reviews and check that it still exists after the job.

2. Do you have liability insurance, and will you have your insurer send me a certificate?

Why it matters: If a tree or limb damages your house, a car or a neighbor's fence, liability insurance is what pays. A certificate sent straight from the insurer is harder to fake than a photo.

3. Do you carry workers' compensation for your crew?

Why it matters: Tree work is risky. If a worker gets hurt on your property and the company has no coverage, you may face questions about who pays. Ask your own insurer how this works where you live.

4. Do you need a license or registration in this town or state, and do you have it?

Why it matters: Rules differ a lot by place. Some areas require a license for tree work, and many do not.

5. Is there a certified arborist on your team?

Why it matters: A certified arborist has passed exams on tree care. It matters most for pruning, tree health and "can this tree be saved?" questions. Ask to see the certificate number.

6. Can I get the quote in writing, with every task listed?

Why it matters: A written quote stops "that was not included" surprises. It should name each tree, what will be done to it and what is left on site.

7. What could make the price change once you start?

Why it matters: Hidden rot, a buried fence, or a tree that needs a crane can change the plan. A good company tells you up front and asks before doing extra work.

8. Do you need a deposit, and when is the rest due?

Why it matters: Payment terms should be clear and written down. Be careful with anyone who wants most or all of the money in cash before any work starts.

9. Who gets the permit, if one is needed?

Why it matters: Some towns and homeowner groups require a permit for large or protected trees. Agree in writing on who checks the rules and who files. This is a short explanation, not legal advice.

10. Who will do the work: your own crew or a subcontractor?

Why it matters: If another company does the job, their insurance matters too. You want to know who is on your property.

11. How will you take the tree down, and what equipment will you bring?

Why it matters: Rigging, a bucket truck or a crane each need space and access. The answer tells you if they have looked closely at your yard.

12. Is any part of the tree near power lines, and how do you handle that?

Why it matters: Work near lines is for trained, qualified crews only, and often the utility must be involved. A company that shrugs this off is a warning sign.

13. How will you protect my lawn, driveway, roof and garden?

Why it matters: Heavy trucks and falling wood can crack a driveway or crush plants. Ask about mats, ropes and drop zones before the job, not after.

14. What safety gear does your crew wear?

Why it matters: Helmets, eye and ear protection and chainsaw-safe pants are basics.

15. What does cleanup include: wood, chips, small debris, raking?

Why it matters: Some quotes include hauling everything away. Others leave the wood. Neither is wrong, but you should know which one you are paying for.

16. Does the price include the stump, and how deep will it be ground?

Why it matters: Stump grinding is often a separate line. Ask how deep, and who removes the grindings.

17. When can you start, and how long will the job take?

Why it matters: A clear date helps you plan for cars, pets and neighbors.

18. If something gets damaged, what is the process?

Why it matters: You want to hear "call us, we document it and our insurance handles it." Silence or a vague answer is a red flag.