Hiring guide · Updated July 2026 How to Hire a Tree Service
Tree work is dangerous, unregulated in most states, and priced by judgment — which makes hiring the highest-leverage decision in the whole job. Here's the vetting process that protects you.
The insurance check (non-negotiable)
You need to see two certificates: general liability (covers your property) and workers' compensation (covers their crew). The second one is the one people skip — and if an uninsured worker is injured on your property, you can be the deep pocket their lawyer finds. Ask for certificates sent directly from the insurance agent, and verify they're current. A legitimate company handles this request weekly; hesitation is your answer.
Get three written quotes
- Prices for the same tree routinely differ 20–40% between companies — comparing three quotes is the single best money-saver in tree work.
- Each quote should itemize: removal, stump grinding, debris hauling, and cleanup. "One number scribbled on a card" isn't a quote.
- Make sure all three price the same scope — stump in or out is the classic apples-to-oranges gap. (Know the numbers going in: cost guide, calculator.)
Red flags that predict a bad job
- Door-knocking after storms, cash-only pricing, or "we're doing a job down the street" discounts.
- Full payment up front. Deposits over ~20% before any work.
- No physical address or insurance certificates.
- Spike marks policy: climbing spikes on a tree being pruned (not removed) permanently wounds it — a crew that spikes prune jobs doesn't know or doesn't care.
- Vague permit answers. Local pros know your city's permit rules cold.
Questions worth asking
- "Can your agent send me current liability and workers' comp certificates?"
- "Is stump grinding included, and how deep do you grind?"
- "What's the plan for protecting the lawn/driveway/septic field?"
- "Does this tree need a permit in this city, and who pulls it?"
- "When can you schedule it, and is payment on completion?"
Hiring FAQ
How do I know if a tree service is legitimate?
Three checks: (1) proof of both general liability AND workers' comp insurance — ask for certificates sent directly from the insurer, not photocopies; (2) a real local footprint — street address, local reviews across years, not just a phone number; (3) a written, itemized quote. Any one missing is a walk-away.
Should I hire a certified arborist for tree removal?
For straight removal, a reputable insured tree service is fine — removal is demolition, not medicine. Hire an ISA Certified Arborist when the decision is whether the tree can be saved, for high-value trees, or for major pruning where bad cuts cause permanent damage.
Why do tree service quotes vary so much?
Because pricing is a judgment call about risk, time, and equipment — and because overhead differs wildly. A crew with a crane, a bucket truck, and full insurance prices differently than two guys with climbing gear. Quotes 20–40% apart for the same tree are routine, which is exactly why you get three.
Should I pay a tree service up front?
No. Small deposits (10–20%) on large scheduled jobs are normal; full payment before work is not. Standard practice is payment on completion. Cash-only, today-only, full-payment-now offers — especially after storms — are the classic scam pattern.