Tree Work Contractors

Trees exist in a wide variety of situations. If they are to provide the highest level of benefit to present and future generations it is important that tree care is undertaken in a professional manner. 

Tree work (arboriculture) requires a high degree of technical competence, supported by training and experience. For these reasons DEFA recommends that tree work is undertaken by well trained, competent arborists, experienced at the type of work being undertaken, e.g. tree pruning/tree removal.

Unfortunately, anyone can call themselves a tree surgeon (arborist), place an advert online or in the telephone directory and offer a service. An advert does not guarantee quality of work or that it will be carried out safely. The Department cannot currently recommend any particular contractor, but as general guide a competent tree work contractor should be able to answer the following questions.

Questions you should ask an arborist: 

1. Are you insured? A tree contractor should be able to show you evidence of their Employers Liability & Public Liability (recommended minimum of £5 million)
2. Do you work to a British Standard? As the recognised industry best practice guidelines, tree contractors should be working to British Standard 3998:2010 (‘Tree Work – Recommendations’)
3. What qualifications (certificates of competence) do you and your staff hold? Tree contractors should have certificates for chainsaw use and any other arboricultural equipment being used (e.g. chippers, cherry pickers), issued by NPTC and/or Lantra Awards.
4. Will you provide a written quotation? A reputable tree contractor should be able (and willing) to provide you with a written quotation. 
5. Can you provide me with the phone number of a referee who can show me some of your work? A reputable tree contractor should be able (and willing) to provide you with a reference.

Choosing the quote that suits you

When you receive your quotations check they include the following before deciding which one to accept:

• Reference to BS3998: 2010 ‘Tree Work – Recommendations’.
• Clear and full details of the work to be undertaken (the specification).
• What will happen to the timber and brushwood? n What will happen with the tree stumps?
• Whether VAT is included. n Who will be responsible for obtaining permission if the trees are protected?
• What steps will be taken to protect you and your property (the risk assessment)?

Be aware that there may be a limited quote validity period.