How To Chose A Tree Surgeon

Trees are important and proper care and attention should be paid to them when any work is required. Undertaking tree work in a way that will minimise harm to the tree and produce good results requires the skill, knowledge and equipment of a trained professional. However, anyone can call themselves a tree surgeon and place an advert in the phone book, post a flyer through your door or set up a website.

So how do you know how to pick a bona fide arborist?

Here's a quick check list to keep in mind when requiring the skills of a professional tree worker.

1. Ask for a free quote.
Don't get talked into an estimate or verbal quote. Ask for a written quote (the full amount the job will cost) on letterheaded paper, with the company or individual's name, address and landline telephone number on it.

2. Ask for qualifications.
Practical qualifications come in the form of 'CS Units' awarded by the National Proficiency Tests Council, and is a measurement of the training and skill of the qualified user. An arborist should have the following qualifications, and be able to show you an A4 certificate, or laminated card with these awards on:

CS30, CS31, CS38, CS39 (CS40 & CS41 optional but preferred)

Academic qualifications may mean that the arborist has a deeper understanding of trees and tree work, and these can include National Diplomas, Professional Diplomas and other arboricultural certificates awarded by the Arboricultural Association, the International Society of Arboriculture and the Royal Forestry Society.

3. Describe clearly what you want, and ask how it will be achieved.
A good arborist should be able to advise you on what is best for the tree and how he will achieve what you want.

4. Avoid bad tree care practice.
Trees are important, and incorrect tree care techniques can leave the tree weakened, unable to recover and a potential health and safety hazard. Lopping and topping are outdated techniques that are now seen as bad practice and do immense damage to the tree. If a tree surgeon begins to use these terms consider using someone else.

5. Consider using accredited professionals.
Arborists can sign up to become members of arboricultural bodies such as the Arboricultural Association's Approved Contractor scheme. This ensures that the arborist has been checked that he is up-to-date with the latest news, ideas and techniques in the tree care world.

Many good arborists are not necessarily members of an arboricultural body, but still provide a professional service none the less.

6. Ask what British Standard the arborist will work under.
BS3998:2010 is the most recent British Standard regarding tree work, and any arborist should be able to reference this in any correspondence you have. It ensures that the work will be carried out correctly and safely.

7. Ask for references.
An arborist should be able to provide you with the contact details of satisfied customers who you can contact and ask about the level of service received.

8. Get more than one quote!