Your trees are more than just a part of your landscape—they’re an investment in the beauty and safety of your property. Finding a reputable tree care company ensures your trees receive the expert attention they need to thrive. However, with so many options out there, it’s important to know what separates the best from the rest.
Here are 8 signs of a reputable tree care company to help you find a trusted tree care expert who will give your trees the care they deserve.
Key Takeaways
- The best tree care companies employ ISA Certified Arborists and have TCIA Accreditation.
- Look for a company with positive online reviews, proper insurance, and one who always uses proper safety equipment.
- Reputable tree care companies always stay up to date on the best practices for tree work.
- Membership with local organizations, like an ISA chapter, shows a company’s commitment to excellence.
- A company with local ties and arborists can better diagnose what’s best for your trees.
8 Signs of a Respectable and Trustworthy Tree Company
Before committing to a tree care company, take the time to do your research. Ask plenty of questions during your initial consultation—gathering the right information now can save you time, money, and stress down the road.
A reputable tree care company with an ISA Certified Arborist on staff can provide more options for caring for your trees. An arborist may suggest fungicides that can save a sick tree.
1. Ask About an ISA Certified Arborist on Staff
An ISA Certified Arborist is an expert in tree care. They have undergone rigorous training and testing to earn this certification. Not every tree care company employs someone who is a Certified Arborist. A company with a Certified Arborist can provide better care for your trees.
Companies without a Certified Arborist can’t offer the same level of expertise and care. A Certified Arborist can identify and recommend solutions for struggling trees that others may miss.
PRO TIP: Curious about how an arborist can help? Check out our previous articles for expert tips on local tree issues, including common pests and diseases threatening your trees:
2. Read Customer Reviews and Testimonials
If you can’t trust your friends and neighbors, who can you trust? Online reviews are a great way to gauge the quality of a tree service company.
Look for a company with strong reviews and pay attention to what customers are saying about the specific services you need. Positive feedback about the work you’re considering is a good sign.
Be sure to check one-star reviews as well—see how the company responded to any complaints and whether they made efforts to resolve the issue. This shows their commitment to customer satisfaction.
3. Look for TCIA Accreditation
Of all the awards and credentials a tree care company can receive, none carries as much weight as TCIA accreditation. The Tree Care Industry Association is a trade association that helps ensure tree care companies follow the best practices for running a business and caring for trees. TCIA accredited companies do business with an eye toward safety and ethics. To qualify, a company must go through an extensive application process. The TCIA examines a company’s insurance, safety, and whether arborists are on staff.
When you work with a TCIA accredited company, you know you’re getting quality tree care.
PRO TIP: In New Jersey, all tree care companies must be NJ Licensed Tree Experts to do tree work. Ensure the company you’re considering has this qualification before requesting a quote from them.
4. Ensure Proper Insurance Coverage
Tree work is dangerous. Fatal and non-fatal accidents are common in the industry. Reputable tree care companies have insurance in case of accidents. This insurance protects the company and you from liability.
Before hiring a company, ask to see their Certificate of Insurance (COI). If a company does not have one or they refuse to show it, it may be time to consider another company.
The best tree care companies all use proper safety equipment and techniques, as demonstrated in this picture. The climber is also properly secured with a harness.
5. Prioritize Safety
Safety isn’t only about insurance; it’s a mindset. Before hiring a company, ask them what safety techniques and equipment they use. The best tree care companies always perform routine safety training and use proper equipment, such as:
- Chainsaw chaps
- Hard hats
- Gloves
- Harnesses
- Climbing spikes (when removing trees)
- Safety glasses
Look around a company’s website at their pictures. You should see the team at work with this equipment on. If not, they may not be a reputable company.
6. Use Modern Techniques and Equipment
We are always learning more about tree care. Likewise, new technology and equipment make the job more efficient. A reputable tree care company should always use up-to-date methods and equipment when doing any tree work.
Want to learn more about how a tree company operates? Ask them questions during the initial consultation about tree work. A simple question you can use to judge a company’s reputability is to see if they top trees. Tree topping is a now-discredited practice that no proper tree company should perform. If a company is willing to perform it, it may not be the best tree care company for your needs.
7. Confirm Membership with Relevant Organizations
Memberships with local organizations is a good sign of a reputable company. Find a company with ties to a local chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture or the New Jersey Forestry Association. These companies are more likely to follow the best practices for tree care.
Frequent meetings and trainings are a hallmark of a good tree care company.
8. Demonstrate Local Knowledge and Experience
Trees across the country have different concerns. You wouldn’t let an out-of-towner suggest restaurants, so why would you let them handle your trees?
Choose companies with local experience and connections. They can offer tailored advice and solutions that are specifically suited to the needs of your trees.
Alpine Tree is Ready to Help with All Your Tree Care Needs in Morris County
Choosing the right tree care company can be tough, but Alpine Tree makes it easy. We combine local expertise with a commitment to safety and quality. Our team includes Certified Arborists and we are proud to be TCIA Accredited, ensuring the best care for your trees.
From expert pruning to maintaining tree health, we offer comprehensive services tailored to your needs. Trust us for reliable, professional tree care. Call us today at 973-964-7798 or request an appointment online.
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