Arbors are very important buildings and structures and having professional arborists on hand can make them safer and more enjoyable. Ask for insurance, including proof of worker’s compensation and liability coverage. Ask the arborist to produce a written contract for tree maintenance work. Never let the arborist sign anything he isn’t 100% sure of. Always check for certifications.
The first step in selecting a professional is making sure the arborist knows what a tree is and what to look for when inspecting a tree. Trees come in all shapes and sizes and each one is different from the next. One thing to consider is the type of weather and soil conditions. The types of trees that grow in your area and the type of trees that grow in other areas of your home and garden can make the difference between a good arborist and an arborist who specialize in a certain type of tree. For example, some trees grow best in dry, windy conditions while others grow better in damp conditions. Also, a certain kind of tree needs specific treatments to keep it healthy.
The second step is to know the proper way to inspect a tree to determine what kind of treatment it needs. One common way to inspect trees is by inspecting for root penetration in wood. In some cases, root penetration is an important part of the arborist’s work but in others it will not help the tree in any way. Therefore, you should make sure the arborist examining the tree has this knowledge.
If you are having problems with a tree or have an arborist who is having problems with a tree, be sure they are able to give you an accurate diagnosis. An arborist may know which type of tree it is but won’t be able to tell you exactly what kind of treatment it needs. Be sure the arborist has the knowledge to properly diagnose and treat the tree before any treatment is done.
Third, you need to choose a tree that is in good shape and that is in good health. You want a tree that has some life left and that is healthy. If you want a beautiful arborist tree but the arborist you are looking at has a sick tree, you can still have the arborist replaced, but it is best to find another arborist.
Finally, you need to be sure that the arborist is insured, bonded, licensed, and insured and bonded. to do his or her job. Professional arborist companies are not only insured by the state and/or city, they should also be bonded by the Better Business Bureau.