Hiring an arborist to provide your tree service is a smart move, for many reasons. They understand trees, know how to maintain them, and have the expertise to troubleshoot problems when they arise. In addition, they stay up to date on best practices and are committed to doing their job ethically and safely.
Reputable arborists have insurance
When hiring an arborist, you should make sure they are properly insured. Not only should they be bonded and licensed, but they should also carry workers’ compensation insurance. You can also ask for references, and make sure they have the proper permits. Some governmental agencies require contractors to apply for licenses and permits before they can do work. It is also a good idea to request several estimates to compare prices and quality of work.
Arborists also need to carry general liability insurance. Without insurance, you could face a large lawsuit if an accident occurs while you are working on a client’s tree. A claim can cost up to a million dollars, and the damage to property could be even more. With insurance, you can be assured that your company is covered for all eventualities.
Insurance is also essential for the safety of your employees. Tree service workers are exposed to many hazards, including chemicals, pesticides, and other hazardous materials. Luckily, workers’ compensation insurance is required by law in most states, but additional insurance coverage is always a good idea. For example, commercial auto insurance policies are essential to protect arborists when they use their own vehicles. In addition to liability insurance, commercial auto insurance can also cover medical bills from accidents, vandalism, and weather-related incidents.
They identify trees that pose a threat to pedestrians, property, and public utilities
Arborists use risk assessments to evaluate trees that are likely to fall or cause other damage. These risk assessments are performed by cross-referencing the likelihood that the tree will fail and the consequences that may be caused by that failure. If a tree is falling or causing damage, an arborist must be consulted to determine the appropriate remedial action.
While a healthy tree is an asset to any landscape, a damaged or dangerous tree can prove to be a liability. Proper tree care will minimize the risk of injury and damage and save your property and money. By hiring an arborist, you can be sure your trees are safe and avoid the unnecessary expense of repairs.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers resources to help you manage the risks posed by trees. The Urban Tree Risk Management Guide provides tips for designing and implementing a program.
They prune trees for health
Professional arborists can help you prune your trees in a safe, effective way that promotes tree health. They are trained to spot problems in your trees and recommend treatments, as well as know the correct season for pruning. They also use specialized tools and equipment that will protect you from injury.
Pruning is an essential part of any tree maintenance program, and there are many benefits to doing it correctly. Proper pruning increases a tree’s strength, increases fruit and flower production, and enhances its natural shape. Proper pruning also eliminates dead and diseased limbs, which can damage your tree.
Pruning is especially important when the tree is young. The main reason to prune is to encourage healthy growth. A poorly pruned tree can lead to structural defects, such as a weak union between branches. These weak unions allow insects and diseases to attack the tree. When pruned properly, a tree will grow healthier and need less pruning in the future.
They understand the risks that a tree poses in its location
Arborists are skilled professionals who are trained to assess the risks a tree poses in its location. Many of these risks are mitigated through proper pruning and the installation of cable systems. But sometimes, it is simply not possible to eliminate all risks. In such cases, hiring an arborist may be necessary.
A qualified arborist can perform a variety of procedures such as crown raising and crown reduction. The methods used for these procedures depend on the type and location of the tree. They also take into account the surrounding environment and botany. Arborists also diagnose, prevent, and treat various types of tree problems. They can also remove threatening vegetation and other hazards. Although some arborists may work in an office, most of their work is performed in the field. This involves using specialised vehicles and ropes.
Cavities: The presence of cavities in a tree may be a sign of internal decay. These spaces are the entry points for decay fungi and insects. An arborist will examine the location and cause of the cavity to determine how best to manage the situation. Splits and cracks in the trunk are also signs of decay and could cause the tree to fall.