How do I know
if the person bidding my tree work is actually qualified to do the
job?
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There are several things to consider when hiring a
tree care professional.
They are:
- Ask if he/she is Certified Arborist and ask to see his/her
credentials.*
- Ask for proof of liability insurance.
- Ask for proof of Worker's Compensation insurance.
- Ask if they are a member of the Better Business Bureau and
check their standing.
- Ask for several job references.
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| *Note: Many tree workers are members of
tree industry associations and use the associations' logos in
advertising and business cards. However, being a member of
an association does not necessarily mean one is a Certified
Arborist. A Certified Arborist will have credentials stating
such.
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Why is it
important to use a Certified Arborist for my tree work?
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| A Certified Arborist has formal arboriculture
training in the tree care industry. Just like you wouldn't
let someone without formal training give you a root canal or
perform open-heart surgery, it should likewise be the same for
those who care for your trees. Trees are living things and
once mutilation has occurred, it cannot be undone. Most
often, this is caused by inexperienced people without formal
arboriculture training. If the weakened tree lives, branches
are likely to break off in high winds and heavy snow. If the
tree dies, it will cost to remove it and to replant. Either
way, it will require frequent attention, which becomes expensive.
A Certified Arborist will save you time and money by applying
professional knowledge the first time.
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Is tree care
really worth the investment?
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Well maintained trees and shrubs are like having
money in the bank. Proper maintenance of your landscape is
essential to keeping it looking attractive and realizing its full
investment potential. The results of a Gallup Landscape
Survey concluded that:
- Landscaping is a definite factor in selling or buying a
home.
- Landscaping adds 15% to the value of a property.
- Landscaping provides an excellent return when compared to
remodeling.
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What is
"topping" trees?
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| "Topping" is a term used to describe a
detrimental method of cutting trees practiced by inexperienced
people without formal arboriculture training. The word
"Topping" could serve as a warning to you that the
person isn't qualified to do the job you're wanting done. |