How to Hire a Tree Service Company
Hiring a professional tree service company isn't difficult if you follow these criteria when doing your research. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous companies in the Birmingham, AL area that you will want to avoid. These questions will help you makes a good assessment.
Did You Obtain Multiple Estimates?
The first and the best thing you can do in your research of quality tree companies is to obtain multiple estimates. This will help make a number of evaluations. First, what was your impression of the company representative that provided you the estimate? Where they professional, well dressed, drive a well-maintained vehicle, etc. These are all indicative of a quality, professional service company. Second, did they provide you with a written estimate documenting all the work you requested be perform as well as other details, such as equipment to be used, payment terms, etc.? Again, these details are also a sign of a good company. Lastly, ask the estimator when they can perform the work. This will tell you two things: 1) better companies are often weeks, if not a few months, out of being able to complete your job; and, 2) if time is of the essence, then you will want to know when they can complete the work.
Do They Have Good References?
For every company that you obtain an estimate from, ask for previous client references. References are the best source of information about the quality of their work. However, make sure these references are no more than 3-6 months old. Any older and they may not be reflective of current business practices. Also, check online reference sources, such as Google, Yelp, Facebook, and the BBB. These reviews can augment the first-hand accounts you received.
Are They Licensed, Insured, and Credentialed?
Every reputable, professional tree care business should be licensed and insured. Tree services is a dangerous industry and accident/injuries do occur. Without proper licensing and insurance, the tree company will expose the property owner to financial and legal risk. Additionally, the tree care industry has a number of professional organizations, such as the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) and the International Society of Arborists (ISA). A quality tree company will have both memberships to these types of organizations but also have continuing education certifications and other certifications their investment in the industry.
Did you Assess Each Estimate?
Each estimate may not be quoted the same. Ensure, when you compare them, that they are quoting the same work. Often times, estimators may quote slightly different jobs so that comparisons need to take this into consideration. Next, you should rarely select the lowest priced contractor, especially if it is inordinately low.
Following these suggestions will help you weed out lower quality residential tree service companies and narrow down the ones that will likely be excellent choices. There are several good tree service companies in Birmingham, but unfortunately, there are even more that are not worthy of your business. Don't make the mistake of not doing your research and selecting one of these less desirable businesses.
Following these suggestions will help you weed out lower quality residential tree service companies and narrow down the ones that will likely be excellent choices. There are several good tree service companies in Birmingham, but unfortunately, there are even more that are not worthy of your business. Don't make the mistake of not doing your research and selecting one of these less desirable businesses.