Tree removal can be a big expense, so it’s natural to want to know about costs upfront. Like any investment, it helps to know your options so you can choose a team that fits your needs and budget. That’s where tree removal estimates come in. Most reputable companies will offer you free tree removal estimates, so you can make an informed decision. Here’s a quick guide to what a free tree removal estimate should cover, and how to make sure you’re getting a good deal.
Why Tree Removal Estimates Matter
As with all jobs that you hire people to do around your home, you need to know how much the work will cost before it starts. Transparency is key– it’s the only way to avoid hidden fees or getting stuck with a bill you can’t pay.
Before you schedule your free tree removal estimates, remember that tree removal is a big, risky job. You need trained professionals and industry-grade equipment in order to safely and effectively remove a tree, and since you’re paying for those skills, expertise, and safe equipment, it’s not going to be cheap. At the same time, you don’t necessarily want it to be! If a company gives you a low estimate, that could indicate a lack of training, an uninsured team, or sub-par tools.
This is why getting a tree removal estimate is so important: so you can compare prices, services, and timelines before you hire anybody. If you have trees on your land, it’s also a good idea for you to start budgeting for both scheduled tree removal and emergency tree removal, so that you’re prepared.
What Goes Into a Tree Removal Estimate
When you’re getting your quote, your contractor will probably be factoring these points into the pricing:
- Tree size and type– removing a tall oak will cost more than removing a smaller, ornamental tree.
- Location and accessibility– if the tree in question is near a house, or power lines, or in a tight backyard space.
- The condition of the tree– for example if it’s storm-damaged, diseased, or dead.
- Is it an emergency removal, or a scheduled one? 24/7 services might cost more.
- Any extras– such as stump grinding, hauling debris to clear, and cleanup in general.
A trustworthy, trained company will take all these elements into consideration when they’re preparing your quote, and they should be able to talk you through it. Detailed tree removal estimates should explain these factors.
How to Compare Tree Removal Estimates
If you’re comparing free tree removal estimates, look beyond the price tag. Instead, during your free tree removal estimates, ask the important questions:
Are they licensed and insured?
If they’re not, don’t book with them! You don’t want to be liable.
Do they have safety practices?
If they don’t have standard safety measures put in place that they can walk you through, then there’s a higher risk of an accident occurring.
What kind of equipment do they use?
This may vary depending on the type and size of the tree, but you need to check that it’s safe, industry-standard equipment.
Is cleanup included?
This one’s a big one. If a company charges low but doesn’t take care of cleanup, you’re left with the extra expense of getting another team out to help. Removing a tree can get messy; it’s always best to go with a team that will handle the cleanup too.
Beware of lowball quotes.
When you’re comparing tree removal estimates, remember that cheaper doesn’t always mean better. A lower price could indicate that the company doesn’t have insurance, or the proper equipment, or that they won’t handle the entire job. If you’d like to get started with your first free tree removal estimate, get in touch with our team at Leveled Up Tree & Crane today!
When Should You Request a Tree Removal Estimate?
Wondering when you should be thinking about tackling tree removal? A lot of homeowners reach out to us if a tree has been damaged by a storm. In those situations, we advise them if the entire tree needs to be removed, or if we can just trim the damaged branches.
Another reason to look into tree removal estimates is when you’re looking to sell your home. While healthy trees can add value to a property, unhealthy trees (or ones that are leaning close to property, parking, or power lines) can decrease the value. They signal hidden costs and hassle for the buyer, so a lot of homeowners call us for free tree removal estimates when they’re looking to boost their property value and curb appeal.
When a tree is diseased or dying, it’s also a good idea to get free tree removal estimates before it falls, rather than waiting for it to fall to deal with the issue. That’s because if you wait and then have to hire an emergency tree removal service, it’s going to cost more. Requesting tree removal estimates early can help you avoid bigger repair bills later too.
Why Choose Professionals Over DIY
Cutting trees without the proper training and equipment can be very dangerous. You’re at risk of hurting yourself, damaging surrounding properties, and also of destroying surrounding foliage. If the DIY goes wrong, that’s an insurance liability. That’s why it’s always best to get a professional, licensed, and insured arborist to do the job for you. Professional tree removal estimates will reflect not just labor, but also safety measures and liability coverage.
Final Thoughts: Free Tree Removal Estimates Are Worth It
At the end of the day, if you have a tree you want to remove, or that you think you might need to remove, you have nothing to lose by getting free tree removal estimates. They reveal the cost and give you a clear idea of whether the company is licensed, insured, and using safe, proper equipment. This, in turn, helps you with planning, safety issues, and peace of mind.
If you’d like to get started with your free tree removal estimate, give us a call at Leveled up Tree & Crane today!
