Home >
Learn >
How to Hire an Arborist
Become an informed consumer. Improper pruning can cause irreparable damage to your tree and may end up costing you a considerable amount of time and money. Hire a Certified Arborist as if your tree's life depends on it!
What is a Certified Arborist?
An Arborist is a specialist in the care of individual trees. Arborists are knowledgeable about routine needs of trees, and are trained and equipped to provide proper diagnostic and remedial measures as well. After certification with the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), each Arborist is assigned a number, which is retained throughout the professional life of an Arborist. It is the right of those hiring an Arborist to ask for this number, and to check the status of that Arborist with the ISA.
How to Hire an Arborist:
Hire someone who is licensed, bonded and insured. Examine these credentials and feel free to check with the appropriate agencies to verify the validity of the credentials. Remember that almost anybody can obtain a business license, and that this alone is no guarantee of quality. Do ask for references and take the time to check them out.
Get more than one bid and examine the written specifications of the bids.
Ask Questions!
If you are not familiar with the terminology used, ask for clarification. Take your time and select a company that is reputable. Determine the best combination of price, work to be done, skill and professionalism to protect your investment.
Membership in professional organizations demonstrates a willingness on the part of the Arborist to stay abreast of Arboricultural information. It is not however, a guarantee of satisfied work. Check references.
Remember that improper tree care can take many years to correct itself. If pruning is too severe, it may never be corrected. Beware of anyone that recommends topping a tree. A reliable Arborist will try to talk you out of topping a tree if it is requested. Never allow a climber to use spikes or spurs to climb your tree unless the tree is scheduled for removal.
Note: It is the policy of the Sacramento Tree Foundation to not endorse private arborists, tree service companies or consultants. Many fine tree care companies exist in the Sacramento area. It is recommended that you obtain several quotes, check the professional status of individuals or firms with the ISA, check references, and request evidence of insurance from each company you consider.