Selecting a Tree Service Company

While smaller tree care projects, such as pruning and small tree removals, are certainly within the abilities of the average property owner, large tree jobs should be left to the professionals.  Our motto is that if a homeowner can keep both feet on the ground then they should call a professional tree service company in Jacksonville, FL to service their trees.  However, even this prudent decision, is not without risks.  There are many under-insured, unlicensed, and even unscrupulous tree service companies in the Jacksonville FL area.  Therefore, in this blog, we offer tips and suggestions on what to consider when selecting a tree service in Jacksonville.

1. Are they licensed in the state of Florida and do they have insurance, both for their business (liability) and their workers (workers compensation)?  This question is the the most important aspect of your research into area tree service companies.  Without the proper licensing and insurance, you as the property owner, expose yourself to both financial and legal risks if an accident should happen.  Always ask those you are receiving tree service estimates from if they hold the proper licensing and insurances.
2. Do they have the necessary credentials and qualifications?  There are several tree care associations in the country that are signs a tree service company is properly credentialed and qualified.  These include the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA)  and the International Society of Arborists (ISA).  Further the Better Business Bureau is always a good general source for information about a business's reputation.  
3. Do they provide a written estimate and detail all the work estimates?   Always get a firm written estimate that details the exact nature of work to be performed.  We have seen numerous situations where work is not documented only to expose the property owner to additional expenses when the work is performed.  Further, make sure the estimate details the exact use of equipment to be used.  You don't want to discover the day of the job that heavy equipment will be used potentially damaging your lawn and landscape.  
4. Did you obtain multiple estimates for the work, and did you compare and contrast these estimates?   Obtain several (at least 3) estimates is wise in that it will provide you with a variety of opinions, costs, and approaches.  However, all estimates will not be the same, so it is further prudent to assess each estimate in terms of the work scope involved.  A more expensive estimate actually might not be more expensive if it involves more work.  
5. Did you obtain references from multiple sources.   Obtain references from the tree service business themselves and make sure they are current (within 1-3 months).  Old references are not necessarily indicative of current business practices.  Additionally, check online reference sources, such as Google, Facebook, Yelp, etc.  These sources provide a variety of reference material and will help you make a better decision.  

Selecting a qualify, professional Jacksonville tree service to perform tree removal or tree trimming need not be difficult using these suggestions.   Just following these guidelines and you will be assured of hiring a top-notch tree care company.