SELECTING A TREE SERVICE FOR EMERGENCY WORK
Trees offer numerous benefits, such as landscape appeal, shade that helps lower energy costs, and soil erosion prevention, however, they become hazardous and even present an emergency. These problematic situations can arise when they are damaged during strong storms and ice. Selecting a tree care company for emergency service need not be difficult or really much different than ordinary situations. However, here are suggestions and tips when you need to call a tree service in Virginia Beach for emergency help.
Do Your Homework
Just because you have an emergency tree situation does not mean you should take short-cuts in selecting a local tree care company. Always get references and check online reviews. Ask the company for references as well as check online review websites, such as Google, BBB, and Yelp. If you see consistent poor reviews you may want to look elsewhere. Also, make sure the references and reviews are recent. Older reviews (past 6 months) are not necessarily reflective of current business practices.
Credentials
Not only should a tree company have credentials from industry associations, such as the Tree Care Industry Association and International Society of Arborists, but they should be licensed and insured. We consider the later to be of the utmost importance when selecting a company. Lack of licensing could mean they are not serious about their business, and if they lack insurance (liability and worker's compensation) it certainly implies they are conducting their business prudently. And, if they lack insurance it would mean you are liable for accidents that happen on your property, which would need to be covered under your homeowner's policy.
Written Estimate
Even in an emergency, you should always get their estimate in writing. We have seen unscrupulous tree companies raise their price after performing the work when they didn't provide you with a written estimate. Further, always compare estimates from at least three companies and ensure the quotes are for the exact same work. Without ensuring the work quoted is the same, you could be comparing two completely different work scopes. Also, when you are comparing estimates, ensure the equipment to be used is listed. This is especially important for trees requiring a crane or bucket truck to remove safely.
Equipment
Ask about their equipment, in terms of being adequate for the work you need to be performed. For some tree removal jobs, a crane is necessary to safely lower large sections of the tree. Also, bucket trucks can be necessary for some jobs when, for whatever reason, the tree cannot be climbed. Equipment should be newer and well maintained. One indicator of a company equipment is the evaluate the car or truck the estimator is driving when he quote the job.
Utility Company
Always contact your utility company if power lines are affected by tree damage. The utility company can ensure the area is safe to work in and can help you identify line-certified tree companies in your area. Not every company is certified to work around power lines.
If you follow these suggestions you can be assured of making a good choice for emergency service.
If you follow these suggestions you can be assured of making a good choice for emergency service.