Tree surgeons

We are aware that certain firms advertising themselves as tree surgeons, are operating in the borough. These companies appear to be operating without appropriate insurance or qualifications and are calling door to door, looking for work.

Anyone can buy a chainsaw and advertise themselves as a tree surgeon. Placing an advert does not guarantee quality of work, nor does it mean they are qualified at all. Choose your tree surgeon carefully. Poorly done work can harm the tree, cause future maintenance issues and put people and property at risk. Reputable tree surgeons do not need to tout for work by dropping leaflets or calling door to door. Please do not use any firms who advertise tree work in this way.

A competent tree surgeon will:

• have employers liability and public liability insurance and will be happy to provide evidence. Reject any contractor who does not have appropriate qualifications. This is compulsory: tree surgeons must hold NPTC certificates (or ‘tickets’) for chainsaw use. Ask to see proof of these.
• be aware of the laws around Tree Preservation Orders and Conservation Areas. You could be liable for prosecution if you hire them to do unauthorised work.
• provide a written quotation. Reject them if they don't.
• not pressure you into carrying out unnecessary work, or into making a decision
• not ask for cash payment upfront. Any firm that does this is a rogue trader. Do not use them.
• will be able to provide references of their other work. Online reviews are not always a reliable source.
• should be familiar with current best practice. Ask if they know what BS3998:2010 is and reject them if they don't know.

Further information is available from the Arboricultural Association