A falling tree can cause significant damage. In the worst-case scenario, it can injure or even kill someone. Once you identify a hazardous tree, you should take steps to trim or remove it before it causes harm. Here’s how you can save money on tree cutting and removal services.
Remove Trees in the Off-Season
Tree cutting and removal services peak during certain periods of the year, especially in late spring, summer, and early fall. The price increases with the increased demand for the service. You can book an appointment with a certified arborist during the cooler seasons such as winter when business is slower. You could save a lot simply by getting a tree dealt with in the off-season.
Do Some of the Work Yourself
If you cut the limbs and dispose of the branches yourself, you can negotiate a lower price with the company. Ask the company ahead of time to know how much you will be saving by handling the less specialized part of the work. You can also ask for an itemized list (i.e. timber cutting, chipping, pruning) as part of the quote and then pick and choose which ones you think you can handle on your own.
Prioritize Different Tree Trims
If you have multiple trees to be removed, you can prioritize the trees that need urgent attention and worry less about the less labor-intensive jobs. Spreading the work over time can give your wallet a break in between jobs. This will also help you do away with the most unhealthy trees first to avoid damage to property.
Ask the City If They’ll Do It Without Fees
If the tree is located in an area owned or maintained by the local municipality, you can request the municipal to trim it without fees. The municipality has all the tools needed and can cut down the tree and clean the debris without charging you a dime.
You can also ask your neighbors or put up an ad online to see if anyone is willing to cut the tree and keep the tree cuts for firewood. 1 You can do this for smaller jobs that don’t require specialized equipment. However, for hazardous trees, you are better off working with a qualified arborist due to the risk involved.
Get an Arborist Assessment
Before cutting down a tree, you can get an arborist to examine the tree to know the condition it is in so that you have an expert opinion of what needs to be done. Sometimes, you may just need to remove the branches to stabilize the tree, which could save you money.
Compare Services and Companies First
When looking for a tree cutting service, you should get estimates from three to five qualified companies to find the best quality services at the best price. Be sure to receive quotes from small local companies that have a good reputation in the neighborhood. Local companies might charge less than companies located further away since it costs money to transport the required equipment to your site.
Get Quotes
Before hiring a business, you should know what to expect to spend when trimming 10 to 20 percent of branches on different sized trees. 2
Stay Safe With Tree Cutting and Removal Services
Cutting or removing unhealthy trees can help you avoid damage to your property or injuries to self or family members. Request estimates from multiple tree cutting and removal companies to see where you get the best deal. Be sure to confirm that the company you hire is properly licensed and insured, and has the required state certification to offer the service.