Tree work requires significant skill, knowledge and experience to be done safely and effectively. Here in Brisbane, there are so many tree companies that it can seem like a daunting task choosing the right one. And it’s important to note, that not all tree companies are created equally! So what sets a good Arborist apart from their competitors?
Follow our easy checklist for hiring a qualified Brisbane Arborist, and you can’t go wrong.
1. Will they provide you with a free, no-obligation, written quote?
First thing’s first – quotes. Any good tree company will happily come to you, assess the tree and provide you with a comprehensive, written quote at no charge. The quote should be clear, concise and not use jargon that you don’t understand. Anyone who won’t do that isn’t worth bothering with. Your quote should detail all of the work to be carried out, and how they intend on protecting you and your property throughout. Make sure it includes what will be done with the tree debris once the job is completed – you don’t want to be left with piles of branches to take away.
There should also be a reference to the Australian Standard for Pruning – AS4373 – Pruning of Amenity Trees (2007) as well as detail around permissions if the tree is protected. Is GST included or excluded? Make sure that’s also clear so you don’t get any surprises.
2. Are they happy to answer all your questions?
It’s important that you fully understand the quote, and what the Arborist intends to do. Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you need to – it’s your tree, your house and your money.
3. Are they fully insured?
One of the most important things to check is whether the Arborist has current insurance. Don’t be shy about asking for proof of public liability insurance, professional indemnity insurance and worker’s compensation cover. Any company that cannot, or will not, provide this to you isn’t worth taking a risk on.
4. Are they qualified and experienced?
There are many levels of experience in the tree industry, ranging from a tree lopper to a fully qualified, Level 5 Arborist. As an absolute bare minimum, anyone doing tree work should at least hold a current chainsaw ticket, and a certificate for pruning of trees near powerlines. Anyone who cannot provide you with evidence of this is severely under-qualified for the job. Ideally, you want an Arborist who holds these certificates, along with others that display their technical skill using machinery such as woodchippers and elevated work platforms. An Arborist who in addition holds a certificate or diploma in Arboriculture has completed study in the field, and has significantly more knowledge about trees and their care.
5. Do they work to Australian industry standards?
Ask if they adhere to Australian standards when it comes to their pruning techniques, they should answer: yes, we work to AS4373 – Pruning of Amenity Trees (2007).
6. Are they members of a professional Australian industry organisation?
Whilst membership to an industry organisation or association doesn’t guarantee work, it does indicate that a company is perhaps more committed to achieving a high standard of work and adhering to the latest in industry standards. An example of a professional organisation they may be a member of is the Queensland Arboricultural Association.
7. Do they have great client reviews and testimonials?
Any tree company worth its salt should have a long list of satisfied customers who can provide a testimonial of a job well done. Ask for the phone number of a customer who is happy to talk to you about their experience or ask to see recent testimonials to give you further peace of mind.
8. Are their staff blue card holders?
Just like any worker coming onto your property, it’s best to ask if the Arborist who will be carrying out your tree work holds a current working with children blue card for your peace of mind. You may also like to ask if team members have had a criminal history check.
Once you’re satisfied you’ve done your due diligence and assessed the quotes, it’s time to trust your gut and go with the company you are happy to have at your home and feel confident in carrying out your tree work.
Make The Right Choice
Take the stress out of your next tree job and hire a professional team that’s been taking care of Brisbane trees for over 40 years – Aussie Tree Solutions. Helping homeowners, local councils, schools, commercial businesses and government agencies alike, maintain and manage their trees, Aussie Tree Solutions is a Brisbane institution you can trust.
Fully insured, experienced and qualified for any job, from pruning to full tree removals, our reputation has been built on our specialist knowledge and skill, safety-first work ethic and absolute professionalism. Call Aussie Tree Solutions on (07) 3351 1722 for a free, obligation-free quote today.