When you have tree work done on your property, we cannot recommend the tree surgeon (or arborist) that you should use. There are certain signs that indicate a high-quality contractor.
Why should you choose an arborist who is a professional?
Tree work can be dangerous and requires a high level of skill. You must choose an arborist with care. The wrong arborist can lead to:
People can be injured
Property damage
Trees can sustain irreparable damage
Arboriculture (tree work) requires a high level of technical expertise, which can be supported by experience and training. Only certified arborists with adequate insurance should be able to perform tree work.
Are you sure it’s genuine?
Anyone can claim to be a tree surgeon or arborist, place an ad online and offer a service. However, this does not guarantee the work will be done correctly or of high quality.
Reputable contractors are happy to provide copies of their qualifications, insurance and professional memberships. They will also adhere to national standards.
Ask an arborist questions
Stage 1: Asking for a quote
1. Are you insured?
Ask for proof of insurance (Employers Liability and Public Insurance) if you answered yes. The minimum recommended amount is PS5 million.
2. Are you a British Standard worker?
If yes, which one? Should be BS3998.
3. Which qualifications are you and your staff certified in?
It is a good idea to ask for copies of certificates.
Obligatory: Chainsaw users must have NPTC certificates. The NPTC is a national organization that evaluates the competence of those who use chainsaws or other arboricultural equipment. Competent arborists can show you either an A4-sized certificate or a card made of plastic.
Recommendations: Certificates for other skills or machines Arboricultural knowledge, e.g. National Certificates and Diplomas
4. Do you have a written quote?
If not, you can reject the contractor.
5. Are you a member a professional organization?
While membership does not guarantee the highest work standards, it does demonstrate a level of commitment.
6. Please give me the number of a person who can show me your work.
If so, take the next step.
Stage 2: Selecting the best quote
Before you accept any quote, make sure to check the following:
Name, address, and telephone number for the company
Refer to BS3998
Clear and complete details about the work required
What happens to the debris?
Taxes included
If the trees are not protected, who will need to obtain permission?
What are the steps taken to protect your property and you?
Organisations of professionals
Two voluntary certification schemes are available in the UK to certify the competence of arborists. The find a tree surgeon website allows you to search for contractors who are accredited.
The Arboricultural Association maintains an index of arboricultural contractors that are quality assured. The AA collective mark logo will be displayed to members. The Arboricultural Association’s website allows you to check the Arborist’s membership.
The International Society of Arboriculture may award certification to individual arborists. The ISA Certified Arborist logo will be displayed by members. You can check the ISA website to verify the arborist’s certification.
Others arborists might be equally skilled, but they have decided not to participate in these schemes.
Warn signs
If you’re considering tree surgery, it is important to ensure that the company you choose is reputable.
They solicit work from door to door
As a service, they offer “topping”. It is dangerous for trees, and arborists should not perform it.
They use a mobile number and cannot be traced back to a permanent address.
