10 Best Questions to Ask During a Dallas Tree Service Estimate

The 5 Tests Every Good Dallas Tree Company Passes

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Do a little research before you schedule your tree estimate. Make sure the company you're calling passes these 5 tests before you pick up the phone.

1. Longtime (or lifelong) Texans. 

Our featured partners constantly discuss the difference between the trees they see in Highland Park and the ones they see in Preston Hollow. That's the kind of insight you only get by living and working full-time in North Texas. 

2. Comprehensive knowledge of native trees. 

Dallas City Hall lists 43 large tree species that currently live in the DFW area, and 103 tree species overall. Hire a tree service with extensive native tree experience to guarantee they know how to care for the trees on your property. If your service provider can't tell a Texas ash from a crape myrtle, you may want to call another company.

3. An ISA Certified Arborist on staff. 

An arborist understands trees on the molecular level and can diagnose diseases and overall tree health. It takes 2-3 years to become ISA certified, and we value that level of care and expertise in a service provider. 

4. Transparent pricing and job scheduling. 

The top BBB complaints against Texas tree companies involve hidden prices and missed appointment windows. Ask your tree care service for an upfront, no-hassle job quote and schedule of service. Check online reviews for any warning signs about bad pricing and poor communication.

5. Properly bonded and insured. 

Call ahead and ask potential tree service providers if they can furnish proof of insurance and whether they're fully bonded. These are must-have pieces of protection for you and your home during tree service. They'll protect you and the contractor from liability that arises from property damage or injury.

A list of registered, licensed contractors is available through the Dallas City Hall website.

Skip the homework and get a free quote from a Dallas tree expert!

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10 Questions to Ask During a Dallas Tree Service Estimate

1. Can I See Your Credentials, Please?

Tree care professionals can be well-rounded general contractors, or highly specialized experts in specific types of tree maintenance. Ask your professional tree service if they employ contractors in any of these 4 fields:

• Tree Trimming Service. These companies provide all-around tree services that promote healthy tree growth and general maintenance. They provide trimming, pruning, stump removal service, and occasional tree planting.
• Tree Surgeon. A tree surgeon is a tree maintenance specialist with an engineering background. They use power tools and climbing apparatus to conduct precise pruning work. Dallas tree surgeons are great for bracing live oak and crape myrtle trees, stump grinding, and carefully cutting down trees near your home.
• ISA Certified Arborist. An arborist is a certified expert in tree biology, including tree disease and overall tree health. ISA certification requires 900 hours of training plus 2 years of full-time experience — if your tree service employs an arborist, you're getting highly advanced tree care.
• Emergency Tree Service. Emergency tree services provide 24/7 tree care service, usually after powerful storms. Dallas Fort Worth emergency tree experts are called on after hail events, lightning strikes, and gusts of high wind.

2. Are You Considering Tree Removal — And If So, Why?

If Are they concerned about safety, health, aesthetics, or something else entirely? This information helps the tree service team provide proper care and meet your expectations. If needed, the team can set up follow up health checks to preempt future issues. 

When you identify your specific needs, you eliminate the potential for unnecessary service options. That means you're more likely to obtain affordable tree care. 

3. How Old is the Tree?

The age of the tree provides insights into its life expectancy, growth rate, and potential issues associated with its maturity. While you might not be able to determine the exact age, you and your service provider can determine a general estimate based on the neighborhood, tree size, and other contextual factors. 

4. How Does the Tree Look?

Seems simple, but look at the overall condition of the tree. Ask your contractor to check for 4 visible signs of decline:

• Dead Branches
• Fungal Growth
• Pest Infestation
• Structural Issues (leaning, cracks)

The things you find during this tree inspection will inform their recommendations for service.

5. Has the Tree Experienced Any Recent Damage? 

Trees are constantly exposed to inclement weather and environmental challenges. Here are the 3 most common environmental challenges for native Dallas trees:

• Hail storms
• Construction work
• Disease outbreaks

Damage events can significantly impact a tree's health and stability, and understanding recent incidents helps in assessing the extent of the damage.

Learn how to check for healthy trees in less than 5 minutes! Our Texas tree health assessment helps you identify common tree pests, diseases, and proper pruning techniques.

6. Are There Any Noticeable Signs of Disease or Pests on the Tree?

By identifying disease or pest infestation early, you can potentially save the tree. Look for signs of disease, such as discolored or wilting leaves. 

Work with an ISA Certified arborist to diagnose any tree health issues, or a tree surgeon to combat tree pests.

7. Is The Tree Close to a House, Especially the Foundation or Roof?

Proximity to structures helps experts assess the risk of the tree causing damage in case of falling branches or uprooting.

Be especially wary of limbs resting on your roof, siding or power lines. Tree pruning is essential in these situations.

8. Are There Any Visible Signs Of Root System Issues, Such As Heaving Soil Or Root Damage?

Compromised roots can lead to structural instability and other potential hazards. Take time to assess the current root system, and note any areas of concern.  Be sure to ask your potential DFW tree service how they'll approach and remediate root system concerns. Will they dig in your yard? If so, how will they repair your lawn afterwards?

Digging into your lawn requires a lot of trust — message our 24/7 live reps for expert recommendations.

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9. Is The Tree Interfering With Utility Lines Or Causing Other Safety Hazards?

If the tree poses a risk to power lines, obstructs visibility, or is leaning dangerously over a house or vehicles, removal might be necessary to prevent accidents or property damage.

10. Are There Any Alternatives to The Work You've Proposed?

Exploring alternatives to expensive projects like tree removal or tree injection procedures allows for a comprehensive assessment of options that may help address the homeowner's concerns while preserving the tree.

Once you’ve answered these questions, you can work with your local service provider to implement proper tree care and maintenance.

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