Most people wait until a branch is hanging over their roof or a tree is half-dead before they start calling around. That's the worst time to hire anyone. A little upfront work means you don't get stuck with a crew that leaves stumps, damages your lawn, or disappears after you hand over a deposit.
What to Look For
Start with insurance. Actual liability and workers' comp — not just a piece of paper they show you. Call the agent listed on the certificate to verify it's current. A guy with a pickup truck and a chainsaw isn't a tree service. Look for a company that has been operating under the same name for at least a few years. Ask for local references and drive past a recent job. You want to see clean cuts, no torn bark, and a yard that wasn't torn up by heavy equipment.
Questions to Ask
Ask directly: 'Who is on the crew and are they your employees or subcontractors?' Subcontractors mean less control over who is on your property. Ask what happens if they damage your fence, sprinklers, or driveway. A good company will have that answer ready. Ask for a written estimate that spells out exactly what gets done, who cleans up, and how they handle stump grinding or removal. Ask how they handle large limbs over structures — that's where skill and equipment matter most.
Red Flags
Knock-off prices that are way below everyone else. That usually means no insurance, no safety gear, or a crew that will beg for more money once the job starts. Anyone who demands full payment before the work is done. Anyone who says they can do the job without a permit when your local code requires one. A truck with out-of-state plates or no company name. And anyone who can't show you proof of insurance on the spot — walk away.
How Ratings Help You Choose
Ratings are useful, but don't just look at the star score. Read the recent reviews, especially the one- and two-star ones. Patterns matter. If three people mention the same problem — late arrivals, hidden fees, or poor cleanup — that's not bad luck, that's how they operate. Look for reviews that mention the specific kind of work you need, like large removals or tricky access. A company with dozens of reviews and a solid average is usually a safer bet than one with five perfect scores and no recent history.
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