Contacting a tree surgeon

One good way to find a good tree contractor is through word of mouth. If you have a friend or relative who uses a particular company and is happy with their prices and their standard of work ask for their telephone number. But always obtain quotations from 2-3 different companies. You can try the Arboricultural Association who maintains its own list of ‘approved’ contractors. Lists are also usually held at local authority offices and by the National Park Authority. You can select at random from the Yellow Pages or other directory but don't assume that all those that advertise offer high quality works.

Look for qualifications and ask for copies of insurance certificates when they quote for the work. Check familiarity with British Standard 3998 and find out their work schedule; some companies will keep you waiting for 2-3 months before they can carry out the work. It is important to ensure that a contractor has the necessary skills and competence to do the work.

Always ask for a quotation not an estimate. An estimate is just that, an estimate; the price may change during the job. Get the quotation in writing and check that it includes disposal of arisings, and that the site will be left reasonably clean and tidy. You also need to know whether VAT is payable and whether a cheque is acceptable - it should be - if they insist on cash without a receipt, give them a miss. If you wish to keep the logs or wood chips tell the tree surgeon while he is quoting, it may save you a fair amount. If you need a tree root removed make sure this is included on the quotation. If you accept a quote, get a firm date from the company to carry out the works. Never pay until the job is complete!

There are now many laws applicable to tree works, most relate to heath and safety items such as use of proper protective equipment and chainsaw training. Because the professional tree surgery companies will have invested much time and money to ensure that they conform with such legislation they need to charge accordingly. The cowboys who avoid such overheads can undercut the professional companies which makes them attractive to use.

Further advice can be found in the leaflet "Tree Work - Choosing your Arborist" which can be downloaded from the Arboricultural Association website