While trees provide countless benefits to our homes and communities, they do require proper maintenance to remain safe and healthy.
Just like any other vendor, a tree company should have:
- A business licenses
- Insurance (liability and worker’s comp)
- Practice and uphold industry standards.
Here are some questions you should ask before hiring a tree company to complete work at your property.
Do you have insurance?
A reputable company will be able to provide proof liability insurance as well as worker’s compensation. Don’t be reluctant to ask for proof. If an uninsured company is hired and causes damage to any person or property you could be held liable. Don’t be hesitant to ask for proof.
Do you have an occupation business license?
The city of Gainesville requires tree companies to hold an occupational business license.
Will you provide a written quote?
If a company will not provide you with a written quote before starting the job, save yourself, and do not hire them.
If a permit is needed, who will obtain the permit?
Who is responsible for removing debris?
The company is required to remove debris resulting from the completed job. If the company fails to remove debris you could be charged a fine. Yard waste pickup for residents is unlimited as long as it is placed at curbside and does not contain limbs longer than 5 ft. long, 8 in. in diameter and no heavier than 40 lbs. Please place limbs in small piles for easy handling. Paper leaf bags and containers should weigh no more than 40 lbs. each.
When the time comes to maintain your trees, don’t hesitate to ask these questions because hiring the wrong company could turn into a nightmare for you.
