The bigger a tree gets, the more complex and dangerous its maintenance needs become. However, that’s no excuse to skimp out on tree trimming. Periodically cutting back dead branches is a crucial part of ensuring your property is safe for family members and passersby—no matter how bad the weather gets. For quality results, you need to hire a professional. Not sure how to find the right arborist? You’ll have an easier time screening tree services by knowing what to ask during your search.

5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Tree Trimming Service

1. How Much Experience Do You Have?

This can refer to many aspects, including a professional’s years in business, their personal tree trimming experience, or their employees’ experience—all of which is valuable information. Business experience is important because it shows the tree service is well-managed. Tree trimming experience is important as well, so make sure whoever works on your property is either highly experienced or supervised by someone who is.

2. Can I Have a Written Estimate?

The safest way to deal with any professional is to request a detailed, written estimate prior to any work. This is especially smart if you’re unfamiliar with the local market rate for the service, as it allows you to compare quotes.

3. Are You a Board-Certified Arborist?

There’s a lot more to tree trimming and removal than meets the eye. Qualified professionals need to know a lot about trees and how to care for them without causing harm. As an informed client, look for arborists certified by groups like the ISA or the Wester Chapter International Society of Arboriculture.

4. Are You Licensed & Insured?

Activities like tree trimming and removal can get dangerous fast, so its imperative you hire a licensed and insured tree service. Licensing tells you they’re skilled and qualified, and insurance safeguards you from liability should injuries occur. It also ensures that whoever gets hurt on the job will be covered.

5. Can I See Some References?

If you’ve never hired someone before, ask for the contact information of three to five recent references—ideally, former clients. Ask them what it was like working with the arborist, and whether or not they’d hire them again.

Looking for a tree trimming specialist serving the island of Oahu? LPN Landscaping & Tree Service can help. Working out of Waialua, HI, for over 30 years, the fully licensed and insured tree service has the skills and experience to perform quality work throughout all of Oahu. For a free estimate, get in touch at (808) 677-6746. More information about their tree care services is available on their website.