Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring an Arborist
What Is an Arborist & Why Hire One?
Choosing an Arborist
Does the arborist have references available?
At what time should I sign a contract?
How many estimates should I get?
Why should I avoid door to door services?
Does the arborist know when it’s appropriate to use climbing spikes?
Why should I avoid a bargain business?
How do I make sure my arborist is certified?
When looking for an arborist, there are a few things to keep in mind during your search. Here Living Legacy Tree Care has compiled a list of questions to consider when hiring an arborist.
Q: Is the business legitimate?
A: Do your research. Before hiring an arborist or tree care service check out different resources like directories in order to find the location. A directory listing shows some permanence for the business. Be aware of tree care businesses that offer “topping” as this is a practice arborist do not recommend.
Q: Does the arborist have references available?
A: You should ask your arborist for references of previous work. Good references will show the quality of work your arborist can accomplish. It can also give you an idea of how much experience they have.
Q: At what time should I sign a contract?
A: Some arbor businesses offer special deals if you sign a contract that day, but quality of work is often lacking. You should make sure you have fully researched the business and received estimates from other arborists to compare before signing any contract. Another tip: avoid arbor businesses that ask you to pay in full before the project is even completed.
Q: How many estimates should I get?
A: Try to get more than one estimate from different arborists. If you have multiple estimates, you can get a better sense of what a fair price will look like as well as know which prices are too good to be true.
Q: Why should I avoid door to door services?
A: Arborists usually retain a lot of business on their own so they don’t need to go door to door. Often when a arbor business has to go door to door, they are just looking to make quick money which could lead to a sacrifice in quality.
Q: Does the arborist know when it’s appropriate to use climbing spikes?
A: Experienced and knowledgeable arborists know not to use climbing spikes when performing tree care services. Climbing spikes are only used when removing a tree. Spikes can cause serious and permanent damage to a tree so it’s best to only use them on a tree that is no longer wanted.
Q: Why should I avoid a bargain business?
A: Be wary of arborists who advertise prices much lower than their competition. This could be an indication of poor quality because a good arborist will have insurance coverage and safe equipment that are added to the services costs. Low prices may mean that the arborist doesn’t have these essential features.
Q: How do I make sure my arborist is certified?
A: It’s best that your arborist is certified, but if they are not, ask if they belong to any professional organizations. Some important arborist organizations include National Arborists Association and International Society of Arboriculture. Membership in a professional organization shows some amount of professionalism.
What Is an Arborist & Why Hire One?
(taken from ISA website: http://www.isaontario.com/content/what-arborist-why-hire-one)
What Is An Arborist & Why Hire One?
By definition, an arborist is an individual trained in the art and science of planting, caring for, and maintaining individual trees. Arborists are knowledgeable about the needs of trees and are trained and equipped to provide proper care. Hiring an arborist is a decision that should not be taken lightly.
Proper tree care is an investment that can lead to substantial returns. Well-cared-for trees are attractive and can add considerable value to your property. Poorly maintained trees can be a significant liability. Pruning or removing trees, especially large trees, can be dangerous work. Tree work should be done only by those trained and equipped to work safely in trees.
What Is a Certified Arborist?
Certified Arborists are individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge in the art and science of tree care through experience and by passing a comprehensive examination developed by some of the nation’s leading experts on tree care. Certified Arborists must also continue their education to maintain their certification and adhere to a Code of Ethics. Therefore, they are more likely to be up-to-date on the latest techniques in arboriculture.
Becoming an ISA Certified Arborist is a voluntary process through which individuals can measure their knowledge and competence required to provide proper tree care. ISA Certification is not government-sponsored or government-endorsed; it is administered by the International Society of Arboriculture as a way for tree care professionals to demonstrate their commitment to the profession and the industry. Certification is not a measure of standards of practice. Certification can attest to the tree knowledge of an individual but cannot guarantee or ensure quality performance.
Find a Certified Arborist in your area today!
If you would like to learn more about our arborist or schedule tree care services, call Living Legacy Tree Care today. We serve the Kawartha Lakes area.