How Do I Know A Good Tree Surgeon?

The most important things to check are:

1. Tree Surgeon Qualifications
All tree surgeons should have climbing and chainsaw qualifications.

2. Public Liability Insurance
A company should have public liability insurance and should be happy to show you.

3. Work References

Ask for references, especially if the work will be carried out on a large or dangerous tree.

Some trees come under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and will require permission from you local authority before any work can take place. All good tree surgeons will check for a TPO as part of their service and organise the permission. The permission can take up to six weeks to be granted from application.

If your tree is in a conservation area then again you will need to get permission from your local authority

It is worth checking whether there are any restriction on tree work as failure to do so can result in large fines of up to £10,000

Are Quotations Free Of Charge?

A Site visit, advice and written quotations are free of charge..

Quotations And Estimates Received From Different Tree Surgeons Vary. Why Is This?

We do not give estimates, just quotations for the work which is to be carried out as discussed at our site meeting. Therefore no additions to the cost unless additional works are discussed and agreed. All VAT is included in the quotation.

How Much Does Tree Work Cost?

The price is dependent on size, situation and type of tree work required. It is always worth getting more than one quote so you can compare. Please call or E-mail us for a free quotation.

How Do I Know What Work My Tree Needs?

Depending on the type, size and placement of the tree you may need different services from crown reduction to pollarding. Please contact us for a free quotation and advice.

What Is The Best Time Of Year For Tree Work?

Certain trees will require pruning at different times of year for example Conifers can be worked on at any time of the year whilst fruit trees are best done in the winter. Feel free to call us and we can give you advice.

What Happens To The Waste?

Greenwood Tree Care removes all waste products and leaves the site clean and tidy. We don't have any waste as such, because everything is recycled into logs, and wood chips.

Will Birds Or Bats Make Any Difference To My Tree Work?

If any type of bird is nesting in a tree or hedge then it is legally protected, so long as the nest is in use. This may prohibit certain types of tree pruning or removal. Removing dense hedges or substantially reducing them in height is likely to disturb nesting birds, but annual trimming may be acceptable. Birds commonly nest between March and the end of July.

Many kinds of bats use trees to make their home in, either for long or short periods of time. Bats are all protected and when carrying out works to a tree that is likely to contain bats, it may be necessary to survey it first.

If tree work must be carried out in an emergency, then this may override protected species.

We always do what we can to ensure that we do not disturb birds or bats. On the rare occasions we are caught out without realising, we relocate them as close as we can to their previous position or if this is not possible we call the RSPCB/RSCPA.

Trees should be regarded as real assets to our homes and gardens. They can increase the value of a property substantially. However, occasionally they can conflict with nearby structures.

• If a tree grows very close (typically within 1.5m) of a lightly loaded wall or structure then as it grows, the base of the stem or the large diameter roots very close to the trunk may exert pressure and cause it to yield/ lift.

• If a house is founded upon a shrinkable clay soil, then trees may cause or add to movement damage due to the soil drying out. Some trees require more moisture than others but all trees will require more moisture when they are fully grown with a large crown.

• Trees close to drains and sewers etc, may cause 'direct' damage if very close. At a greater distance it is common for tree roots to enter a pipe via an existing hole / gap and then to cause a blockage once the roots multiply. Where possible, clearing roots and inserting a flexible liner may solve the problem. This is mainly the case with old leaky drains, whilst modern plastic drains are seldom affected.

Can I Prune Back A Neighbours Branches / Roots?

Generally common law provides a 'right' for a landowner to cut back trespassing branches or roots from a neighbour's tree. One problem is that the extent and positioning of pruning allowed under this 'right', frequently does not compare with tree pruning recommendations and if taken to the letter of the law, may result in a disfigured and possibly a dangerous tree. Acting in this way may not protect you should damage or loss occur.

If your trees are protected, then the Consent of the Planning Authority (but not the tree owner) will be required. As you can see, this can be a complicated matter and it is important you receive professional advice relevant to your situation. The easiest way to have work done is to maintain good relations with you neighbours!

Greenwood Tree Care provides tree surgery in East Herts. Our working area covers Stevenage, Watton-at-Stone, Hertford, Puckeridge, Standon, Ware and surrounding areas.