6 Things to Know before Hiring a Tree Trimmer
Property owners or managers who rush to accept the service of a tree expert are frequently taken advantage of by fly-by-night amateurs who commonly consist of a pickup truck and chainsaw. The result of this is poor quality work, and greater long term costs. The best option is to choose a licensed, bonded and insured professional. Here is a list of things you want to know prior to hiring a Contractor to perform this work.
Are they Insured?
A company without adequate insurance coverage is an establishment that you don’t want working anywhere near your home or business. You want to ensure that the company has liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance.
Liability insurance guarantees that if the company causes damage to your home or possessions, it covers the expenses.
Worker’s compensation insurance protects both you and the company’s employees by covering any injury that an employee sustains while working on your property. Additionally, it protects you from a lawsuit if anything should happen while the company is cutting trees.
Do they have legitimate References?
This is just good common sense. Do not hesitate to ask the company for references from customers who had similar work completed. You are entitled to know what to expect and how other people felt about the services provided. It is suggested that you contact at least three former or current customers before selecting a firm. Even drive by…
Do they give written Estimates/Contracts?
Always receive a written estimate. If a tree service is even slightly hesitant about this, it may mean that the company is out to make a quick buck at your expense and may charge you additional fees for services that you did not want or need. Be sure you know how much the entire job will be. This will also give you a reference for quoting the job with other vendors. Always get three bids for services unless you have worked with the company before. Also, evaluate how the company is going to charge you for the services performed. For instance, is the company going to charge an added fee for stump grinding or dump fees, or is there one flat fee for the entire project? Be wary of contracts that are not detailed and specific or you may be doomed to add-ons.
Do they have the proper equipment for the job?
You want to make sure that the company has all the necessary equipment for the job. Communicate exactly what you need done to the best of your ability. The company may not even take on your particular job if it needs a special type of equipment that it doesn’t have. It is also important that the company have Safety Program. A company that has a documented Safety Program will ensure that all persons on your project are working in safe manner and donning the appropriate safety equipment.
Does the company train their employees to perform this type of work?
Ask about the employees’ backgrounds. You want a company performing your job that hires workers with many years of experience performing this type of service. Beware of the mow and blow company that wants to make a buck on the side.
Are they licensed in the State of California?
This may seem like a no-brainer but it is important that you check the company out. Consumers can easily check if a Company is licensed by visiting http://www.cslb.ca.gov/ and typing the license number into the “Instant License Check” box at the top right of the current site. If your project is $500.00 or more the Contractor must be licensed in the State of California.