While we can’t recommend which arborist (tree surgeon) to use for tree work on your property, there are some signs that might help you make a decision. You can still identify a quality contractor by looking for certain signs.
Why hire a professional arborist instead?
Tree work is dangerous and requires high-skilled workers. It is important to choose the right arborist. A bad arborist could result in:
Injury to people
Property damage
You can irrevocably damage your trees
Arboriculture requires high technical competence, supported by years of experience and training. Tree work should only ever be done by competent arborists who have adequate insurance.
What is genuine and what is not?
Anyone can be called an arborist (tree surgeon), post an advertisement online, and offer a service. It does not mean that the work is of high quality and safe.
Reputable contractors will gladly show you copies their insurance, qualifications, and professional memberships. They will also conform to national standards.
You should ask an arborist questions
Stage 1: Asking for a quote
1. Are you a member of an insurance company?
Ask for proof of insurance, Employers Liability or Public Liability. A minimum of PS5 Million is recommended.
2. Do you follow a British Standard of work?
If so, please tell us which one. Should be BS3998.
3. What qualifications are you and the staff?
Ask for copies of certificates.
Compulsory: You must have NPTC certifications for the use of chainsaws. The NPTC, a national organisation, assesses competency of arborists using chainsaws. Competent arborists will either be able show you an A4 certificate or a plastic ID Card.
Highly recommended: Certificates of other skills and machines. Arboricultural knowledge, e.g. National Certificates & Diplomas
4. Can you give me a written estimate?
If you don’t, then reject this contractor.
5. Are you a member or a representative of a professional association?
Although membership does not guarantee work standards, it does indicate a commitment.
6. Could you please give me the telephone number of someone who can show some of your work to me?
If you answered yes, continue to follow-up.
Stage 2 – Choosing the right quote
Before you decide which quote to accept, ensure that your quotes include these items.
The company’s name, address, and land-line phone number
Refer to BS3998
Clear and detailed information about the work that will be done
What will happen with the debris
What is the VAT?
Who will have to get permission for the work?
What steps will you take to protect yourself and your property?
Professional organizations
There are two voluntary certification programs in the UK that recognize the competence and experience of arborists. Search for certified contractors by using the Find a Tree Surgeon website.
The Arboricultural Association keeps a list of certified arboricultural contractors. Members will display the AA collective marks logo. Visit the Arboricultural Association website to verify the Arborists’ membership.
Individual arborists can be certified by International Society of Arboriculture. Members will have the ISA Certified Arborist Logo. The ISA website allows you to check the arborist’s certification.
While other arborists are likely to be equally capable, they may not choose to participate in these programs.
Alert signs
It is crucial to consider whether or not you are dealing with a trusted tree surgeon company.
They are looking for work door-to–door
They offer ‘topping’ as a service. Trees are not safe from tree-deading pruning and good arborists won’t do it.
They are not able to be traced to a physical address or use a mobile phone number.
