The chances of incidents related to tree care are low, but NEVER zero. This is why you need to leave it up to the experts to do the job.
Don’t just settle for the first tree care agency you can find, take the time to get to know your options. While everybody can easily claim they have a wide range of services to offer, it’s important that you know your arborist has safeguards just in case things go south.
Daners of Tree Care
Climbing, pruning, and removing a tree involves careful planning and safe implementation. There are many risks associated with tree care, such as:
- Bites and stings from animals and insects
- Infections from cuts and scrapes
- Rashes from poisonous leaves
- Electrical burns from nearby power lines
- Injuries from power tools
- Eye injuries from airborne pieces of wood
- Amputations
Arborists are well-equipped to deal with special tools and equipment, and must know how to carefully manoeuvre around hazardous areas. Without proper training and a permit from the authorities to perform these high-risk services, there is no guarantee for safety on the job.
Checkpoint: CREDENTIALS
At first glance, unlicensed contractors may seem preferable over licensed ones because they offer their services at lower rates. This may lead you to believe that you’ll save more money. However, if they didn’t even take such a simple step as getting a license, how well do you think they can perform? Will they be able to avoid hazards? Can they do the job without putting your property and its residents in danger?
To save yourself from mental and financial stress in the long run, make sure that the tree service you hire is:
- Licensed to offer tree services. Licensed tree care professionals undergo rigorous safety training and adhere to standards set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS). A certification matters because it indicates safety, efficiency, and professionalism — all qualities that enhance the credibility of a company, making them an excellent choice for your home or business.
- Insured to cover potential damage or accidents. This comes in extremely handy in case of an incident that harms either the contractor’s employees or your property. While the insurance that tree care providers have varies from company to company, those that are insured can guarantee that you will not be held liable for any onsite damages to the trees and property or injuries to people working on it.
Questions You Need to Ask
Never assume that you are dealing with a licensed and insured tree service provider. It is best that you ask them and check their credentials. A good tree service company will allow you the time to get to know them, so ask them questions like:
- How long has the business been in service?
- Does the business have up-to-date insurance?
- How long will the project take?
- Will you provide a written estimate?
- What equipment do you use?
- Can you provide a list of references?
- Is the company vehicle well maintained?
- Will the crew be using hardhats and other protective equipment while on the job?
Signs and Symptoms of an Unqualified Arborist
Already in the talks with a tree service provider? Look out for the following warning signs before closing the deal with them:
- Inadequate knowledge
If they are having a hard time explaining the tree problem to you, it’s a sign that they aren’t that reliable. Licensed arborists are required to have the knowledge and skill set to explain which measure they would recommend for your problems and the reason behind it. If what they say is too vague or too complicated that you can’t ever comprehend it, ditch them. - Questionable advice
A tree service provider that recommends topping as a first measure to decrease your tree’s height is in a hurry to finish their job before it’s even begun. Topping can do more harm than good, as they leave your trees with weak limbs and a bare appearance. - Lack of transparency
If they are reluctant to show you a detailed description of their company, services, pricing, and their license and insurance details, find somebody else who’s ready and willing to. Reliable professionals won’t have second thoughts on giving any evidence of their experience and expertise.
What Happens When You Hire an Unlicensed and Uninsured Arborist?
Hiring the wrong people is not just a waste of money, it can set you back in various other ways:
- Most unlicensed tree care providers don’t abide by industry standards
The CCOHS sets industry standards for trimming and pruning. These steps are essential in maintaining your trees’ appearance and achieving their full growth potential, as well as contributing to your property’s curb appeal.Unlicensed providers who do not abide by these standards are rather lax, or worse entirely negligent. They may partake in detrimental practices like tipping and topping, both of which can lead to unnecessary bark ripping and other tree injuries. - Your home or business may suffer damage
You never know when or how a tree is going to fall based on its size and current position. With an unlicensed tree service technician attempting the felling process, you can’t be certain whether they’ll succeed or cause the tree to fall on your garden, car, or home.Make sure the company you choose protects your property. Licensed professionals prioritize precision in cutting so that your tree falls without any mishaps, saving you from disastrous accidents and costs. - Employees of uninsured tree companies become YOUR responsibility in case of an accident
Tree removal can be extremely dangerous, and hiring an uninsured arborist adds to the laundry list of risks already associated with the job. If an employee working for an uninsured contractor suffers an accident on the job, the contractor will not be held responsible.
They can easily reason that the work was performed on your property and can place the legal and financial burden on you. Save yourself the trouble by dealing with a tree service company that’s covered by insurance and shoulders the liability while protecting their client.
Other Important Things to Consider
Certification and insurance are essential aspects in determining the right tree care service to hire. But don’t forget to check the following to make sure you have a sure winner in your hands:
- Tools and Equipment
Skilled and trained arborists should use the right tools and equipment to do a safe and efficient tree cutting or removal job. Improper tools may be harmful to the workers and your property, and mishandling might lead to an ugly looking tree. - Safety
Arborists and tree surgeons must observe all the safety guidelines, regardless of the magnitude of the job. All members of the crew must use appropriate safety gear and be aware of the potential risks involved.
- Experience
Knowledge in all things tree care-related comes from the experience in…caring for trees. It’s not about whether the company has been around for years or is fairly new. You can always measure this by asking the company for references. Other clients’ experiences with them are helpful in shaping a vivid image of how well (or terribly) their team does their job.
Where Can I Find a Licensed Arborist Near Me?
If you need tree care services in Richmond Hill, Thornhill, Markham, Aurora, King, Newmarket & Bradford, Ontario, Dave Lund Tree Service and Forestry is the place to be! Our ISA Certified arborists will make sure to maximize the beauty and lifespan of your trees. Call us now toll-free at 1-800-363-0511.