How to Hire a Competent Tree Service for Storm Damaged Trees
Major storms bring a wide variety of problems and serious disruption to daily life. When trees are damaged by wind and lightning, the resulting broken branches, split trunks, and entire tree failures must be cleared and hauled away. In the stressful hours after a storm, it’s tempting to hire the first person who knocks on your door with a chainsaw. But storm‑damaged trees are dangerous, and choosing the wrong company can lead to injuries, property damage, insurance headaches, and even scams.
Here’s how to confidently hire a competent, qualified arboricultural company to handle storm‑damaged trees safely and professionally. It is important to rely on certified arborists when making important decisions in regards to the integrity and future health of storm damaged trees.
Why Storm Cleanup Requires True Professionals
Storm response and cleanup require experience arborists and equipment operators. Storm work is not just “tree trimming.” Every tree is different and poses various degrees of danger based upon its structure, wood strength, location, and degree of damage. Unstable trees and limbs under tension are hazardous and unpredictable. In most instances, arborists use large grapple trucks to efficiently and safely remove debris to reduce the risk of harm to their crews. Storm cleanup almost always involves downed power lines, hidden hazards in piles of debris, and long hours in adverse weather or poorly lit conditions. Certified arborists, working in storm cleanup situations, are often pressured to work long hours. This is why reputable companies emphasize training, safety protocols, and proper insurance. And it’s why you should be selective about who you hire.
First Rule: Avoid the “Guy with a Chainsaw”
After storms, many untrained individuals travel door‑to‑door offering cheap tree work. The article notes that these operators often lack adequate or proper liability and workmen’s compensation insurance. Customers should ask for an updated Certified of Insurance (COI) with the customer’s name and property address listed. These forms are routinely issued through the tree service’s insurance agent at no charge to the customer.
Tree removal and storm cleanup services are expensive. The “guy with a chainsaw and pickup truck” are often a better deal because they skip safety practices and don’t follow proper arboricultural standards. Many homeowners find out that these tree guys will overcharge desperate homeowners and disappear if something goes wrong. If someone shows up unsolicited, that’s your first red flag.
What to Look for in a Competent Arboricultural Company
1. Hire a company with verified credentials that are affiliated with reputable organizations such as: TCIA (Tree Care Industry Association) and ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) at International Society of Arboriculture. These groups vet companies for safety, training, and professionalism.
2. Proper insurance includes general business liability and vehicle/equipment insurance coverage that is written specifically for arboricultural services that involve employees working in aerial equipment. Many “tree guys” have insurance coverage that is underwritten to cover landscaping, not tree work. Consumers should ask if the tree company employs their workers directly or if they hire contractors to complete the jobs. A legitimate company should provide proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation. Never take their word for it—ask for documentation.
3. Experience With Storm Work
Storm cleanup is different from routine pruning. Before you hire a company, you should ask how long they’ve been doing storm response jobs and whether they work with insurance‑managed repair programs. You should also ask if they own specialized equipment like cranes and grapple-trucks. Companies that partner with insurers are often pre‑vetted for quality and safety.
4. Clear, Written Estimates
A professional company will document the damage, provide a written scope of work which explains the pricing clearly. You should rely on your insurance agent to help you make decisions if you have questions. A professional company will not pressure you and they will offer written estimates. Remember, in areas hit hard by storms, the high quality and reputable tree care companies will be the busiest taking care of their customers, they will not be “door-knocking.”
5. Safety‑First Approach
As you make your final decisions and before you hire a company, be sure to ask about their crew training and use of personal protective equipment. A reputable company will have a well-formatted website that displays their credentials and safety certifications. Many companies maintain records through professional videographers to demonstrate their experiences with hazardous situations (like trees on roofs or near power lines). A competent company will gladly explain their safety protocols because they are proud of their employees and their past performances. Another good indicator of a high-quality tree company is the tenure of their employees. Do not be afraid to ask how long their employees have been on their staff.
Tips for Protecting Yourself as a Homeowner
Here is a checklist:
- Call your insurance agent immediately to confirm your coverage.
- Ask your insurance agent to refer you to a reputable tree care company.
- Document everything. Request that all communication be followed up in emails.
- Take caution but photograph the damage before any work begins.
- Agree on terms of payment. Reputable companies do not require pre-payment.
- Retain all estimates, invoices, and receipts.
Be cautious of any company that approaches your property since storms attract opportunists. As you find yourself in need of help, do not make a hasty decision. Remember, you are the customer and if a price seems extreme, get multiple quotes. Do not pay a deposit or any invoice prior to the job being completed.
Why Hiring the Right Company Matters
A qualified arborist doesn’t just remove debris—they protect your home, your safety, and your wallet. Reputable and experienced storm‑response companies:
- Prevent further property damage
- Work efficiently under dangerous conditions
- Understand insurance requirements
- Follow industry‑approved practices
- Help restore your property safely and quickly
In other words: you’re not just paying for tree removal—you’re paying for expertise, safety, and peace of mind.
How to Hire a Competent Tree Service for Storm Damaged Trees
Storm damage is stressful, but hiring the right tree care company should be a professional business interaction which sets forth a plan to restore normality to your property and life. Focus on credentials, insurance, safety, and the company’s reputation. When you choose a vetted, experienced arboricultural company, you’re protecting your home and ensuring the job is done right.
Sourced from: Storm Response Considerations – Tree Care Industry Magazine