• Observe the type of pruning practices you like, then find out which company does that type of work or use FIND A TREE SERVICE on this website. Also ask for referrals from your neighbors and garden centers.
• Verify that your arborist has insurance (many do not), is state licensed, and can give references of other similar work. TIP: Authentic certificates of insurance ONLY come directly from the insurance company. Check for liability, vehicle and worker's compensation insurance. REMEMBER if a worker is injured on your property and his company does not have worker's compensation, your insurance company will not cover it, you will! Statistics show that a tree climber is 3 to 4 times more likely to die on the job than either a firefighter or law enforcement officer.
• Determine if your arborist is qualified through specialized training, such as formal education and/or certification.
• Ask your arborist to provide a written proposal for your project that covers the scope of work, procedures to be followed, number of personnel for your job, duration of the job, and how payment will be made.

• Unless you're comfortable with your present tree service, have more than one arborist look at your job; even if you have to pay a small estimation fee it will be worth your extra effort.
• Be cautious of a company which is willing to lower prices to match the competition, wants deposits, or recommends removals without good justification.
• Beware of a company that recommends topping as a first choice.
• Verify that the quality of workmanship and ethical conduct of your arborist meet your expectations and the International Society of Arboriculture's code of ethics.
• Establish an on-going plan with your arborist to meet long term tree care needs.

REMEMBER: A tree takes a long time to grow but only a short time to permanently disfigure.

CHOOSE WISELY!