You have a heavy branch hanging over your shed and want it removed! You quickly grab your phone and search for a Local Arborist Preston. This is a great option but there can be many companies. All of them will claim to be the best. We have created a simple checklist below so you can find a safe and honest expert.
Why Choose The Right Tree Expert
Trees can be a heavy job. One heavy oak branch can cause serious damage to your car and/or fence by falling. A skilled expert will know how to read a tree like a doctor would a chart. They will identify early signs of rot, splitting and weak roots. Whilst an unskilled worker will cause damage to the crown, leaving a messy looking tree that will rot for years. Choosing a good tree expert will help keep your family, house and garden safe.
Arborist Or Tree Surgeon?
In general people refer to both of these roles as the same thing. An Arborist will study tree health and growth and will know how to cut and what happens when they are hit by storms. Whereas a Tree Surgeon will actually do the work, such as pruning. Many companies in Lancashire offer both. Be sure to ask if they can advise and do the work. If they have a team of both you will get everything explained to you and then completed in one go. Saving you time and confusion.
Qualifications
It is important to know that a worker has had training in a dangerous trade. Ask for:
- Lantra or City and Guilds qualifications for Chainsaw and Tree Climbing.
- A member of Arboricultural Association or similar trade organisation.
- Diploma/degree in Arboriculture from a recognised college.
- First Aid training and aerial rescue skills for the climbers.
All reputable Local Arborist Preston will have these documents to hand. A genuine company will happily show you the documents. If they avoid the question you know they don’t have them.
Are They Insured?
Ask them to show you their Public Liability insurance. Be sure to check the date and how much it covers. Many companies will have 5 million pounds plus. If a branch falls and breaks your window or damages your van it could cost thousands to repair. If they aren’t insured you could be paying for it. Companies with employees will also need Employers Liability insurance.
On the day of the job, a safe team will wear helmets, chainsaw trousers and eye protection. They will put up cones and clear a drop off area.
Getting A Fair Quote
Ask for a written quote. A fair quote will include all the work to be done. It will state what needs doing (Crown Reduction, Log Removal and Waste Disposal), how much it will cost, when it will start and how long it will take. Get 3 quotes and compare the work and prices.
- If they are cheaper than everyone else be cautious.
- They may not have insurance and safety equipment. If someone comes to your door claiming your tree looks dangerous avoid them.
- They will try to scare you into a quick job. Only pay once they have completed the job and keep the receipt.
Local Regulations And Tree Preservation Orders
Some trees have legal protection. A Tree Preservation Order means you cannot cut the tree without council approval. Trees within a Conservation Area will need to notify the council. If you break these rules you will face large fines. A Local Arborist Preston will know how to deal with the council and can send the forms for you. This will keep you safe from fines and delays. Ask them to check if your tree has any issues before they give you your quote.
Services Offered By A Complete Tree Team
Olive Branch Tree Surgery act as a Local Arborist Preston offering services to both residential and commercial properties. We can complete any size of job from tidying up your garden to an old gnarly woodland. We can provide
- Pruning and Crown Thinning – Improve light.
- Tree Cutting – Remove dead/dangerous trees.
- Stump Grinding – Clear ground for lawns and patios.
- Hedge Trimming – Neat hedges.
- Branch and Waste Removal – Clean site.
Visit our website to see the full range of services we offer. Ask us to come and have a look.
Check Work
Check online reviews on Google. Ask neighbours what they have done previously. Look for pictures of completed jobs. Genuine customers will comment on how well they have cut, left a clean site and had a friendly team. Ask for 2 customer references. Call them. A proud company will be happy to show you their history. A reputable Local Arborist Preston will have built up a good reputation by providing consistent work and honest advice. If there is a whole page of 5 star reviews all in one week you should be cautious.
Ask About Wildlife And Garden Clean Up?
Yes! Trees provide shelter for many creatures. Birds nesting and bats roosting are heavily protected in the UK. A careful expert will check for any nests or roosts. The bird season is Spring until late Summer so try to schedule any major cuts for Autumn/Winter. Ask who will remove your logs and branches. They should have a waste carrier licence. They should chip or remove your green waste. At the end of the job your lawn will be clean showing you respect your home.
FAQ’S
How much will tree work cost in Preston?
Prices will depend on the size, height, access and amount of waste. The best way to know is to get a written quote after they have visited your site.
Do I need permission to cut my tree?
If you have a tree with a preservation order or within a conservation area you will need permission. Check with your council or ask your arborist to check for you.
When is the best time to prune my tree?
Most trees can be pruned in late Autumn/Winter when they have lost their leaves. Some species like Cherry are better in Summer. Ask for advice.
How long will the job take?
Small pruning jobs may only take a few hours. Larger cutting jobs can take all day. The team can tell you how long it will take during your quote.
Can I stay in during the job?
You can but keep children and pets away from the work area. Tell them about any gates, drains and hidden pipes.
Conclusion
While there’s a little research involved in choosing an arborist for tree work which is worth every minute you spend – you’ll rest assured knowing that if your Local Arborist Preston ticks off each checkmark on our list, then both your trees and your wallet are in good hands.
Homeowners throughout the UK can count themselves lucky to have access to the expertise of their local team of professionals. They’ll understand everything from soil conditions to weather to council regulations. Get in touch with The Olive Branch Tree Surgery today to come and see what we can do for you!
