How to Vet a Local Tree Service in Union City, NJ

Verifying Licenses and Certifications for Tree Service Providers

Tree care is a profession that requires specific certifications and licensure to distinguish qualified professionals from those who do not possess the required qualifications. In New Jersey, certified arborists are required to undergo rigorous education and testing programs in order to obtain certification. As such, it is very important for you to verify the licensure of any provider that you consider hiring as part of the evaluation process.

Require each of the providers that you consider hiring to provide documentation of their certification as a New Jersey Certified Tree Expert. Documentation of certification as a New Jersey Certified Tree Expert will indicate to you that the provider has demonstrated proficiency in tree pruning, disease diagnosis, and safe removal of trees.

Additionally, verification of membership in professional organizations such as the International Society of Arboriculture is also beneficial in determining whether or not the provider is committed to adhering to the same standards as the rest of the industry.

Insurance Coverage to Protect You From Liability

Legitimate tree service providers will carry both General Liability Insurance (to protect you from liability for damages caused during the course of performing tree work) and Workers Compensation Insurance (to cover employees injured while performing tree work).

Before engaging any tree service provider to perform any type of tree work, you need to request current insurance certificates.

Understanding Union City Tree Permit Requirements

Union City has regulations governing tree preservation that control what types of tree work can be performed on private property within the city limits. To remove any living tree on your property, you are required to obtain a permit from the city prior to doing so. The city’s Shade Tree Committee reviews applications to determine if the proposed tree work complies with the city’s regulations.

When Are Permits Required?

Permits are required to remove any living tree, regardless of its size or condition. This requirement helps to prevent the destruction of the urban canopy that exists above Union City. There may be some exceptions to this rule, where the tree is dead or poses an imminent danger to people or property.

You will need to apply to the city that includes your name and address; details about the tree(s) you wish to remove (such as their location, diameter, height, etc.), and why you want to remove them. The city may charge you a fee to remove a tree that is not replaced with another tree within 60 days. A qualified tree service company will assist you with obtaining the required permits.

Replacement of Removed Trees

Union City requires the replacement of trees removed from private property to maintain the environmental benefits that the trees provided. Replacement trees must meet certain criteria, which will be explained by your tree service provider.

If a tree dies within one year after planting, you may replant the tree again. If the city deems that the second tree also died due to your negligence (i.e., watering, fertilizing, etc.), then you may be charged an additional fee for the new tree. It is therefore essential to choose a qualified tree service provider to ensure that you comply with the replacement requirements.

Evaluating Experience and Local Knowledge

A company that has experience providing tree services in Union City is likely to provide better service than a company that does not have such experience. Due to the high density of homes in Union City, tree service companies must employ specialized techniques to safely and efficiently complete jobs in the city.

Asking potential tree service providers about their experience in providing services in neighborhoods such as The Heights, Union Hill, and Bergenline Avenue will allow you to determine whether the company has the experience and knowledge needed to provide services in your neighborhood.

Local experience also enables the company to navigate the narrow streets and alleys of the city more quickly and safely than a company that is less familiar with the layout of the city. Moreover, a company with extensive local experience will have a better understanding of the types of trees commonly found in the area and will be able to provide the best advice and services based on their experience.

Experience With Historic Districts

An experienced provider understands the historic nature of many of the neighborhoods in Union City, particularly areas around Hudson Presbyterian Church and other landmark locations. This knowledge allows them to preserve the aesthetic character of the neighborhood while completing the work requested.

Request Written Estimates From Companies

Reputable tree companies provide a detailed written estimate before beginning any work on your property. Each estimate should list all services to be performed, the materials used, and the associated costs clearly listed. When possible, a verbal-only estimate will create unnecessary disagreements over the cost of the work to be done.

To compare the estimates of various licensed tree service companies, you should obtain at least three estimates from different companies. Be aware, however, that the lowest bid does not necessarily represent the best value for your money. A company that employs quality equipment, has adequate insurance coverage, and uses trained personnel will charge more than companies that do not meet these basic standards.

Each written estimate should detail the cleanup methods employed, wood disposal, and stump grinding options. The estimated duration of the job will help avoid confusion and will protect both parties from misunderstandings. Do not consider any estimate that appears to be unrealistically lower than the other bids received.

Check References and Online Reviews

Previous customers can tell you a great deal about a tree service company. Ask for referrals from the companies you are considering hiring for recent projects that are similar to yours. Talking to previous customers will give you insight that goes beyond the online reviews.

Look for consistent comments regarding professionalism, cleanliness, and communication when reviewing online reviews. Companies that are consistently praised for these qualities will be more reliable than those that are criticized.

Also, pay attention to how companies respond to negative reviews. Companies that respond professionally to criticism show that they take responsibility for their actions and are committed to providing excellent service to their customers. Companies that ignore negative comments or respond defensively may not be good business partners.

Assess Safety Practices and Equipment

Qualified tree service companies follow proper safety procedures to protect their workers, your property, and bystanders. Professional tree service companies continue to train their workers and upgrade their equipment to ensure that the safest methods are being used.

During the initial consultation, you can observe how safely the crew operates by watching their use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). PPE includes helmets, eye protection, climbing harnesses, gloves, etc. Any outdated or homemade equipment may indicate that the company takes shortcuts to save money, which can compromise worker safety.

In addition, ask how companies plan to operate around power lines and buildings. Companies that plan and coordinate with utilities when necessary will reduce the risk of electrical shock and service interruptions.

Understand the Scope of Services Offered by the Company

Not all tree service companies offer the same level of service. While some specialize in tree removal, others specialize in tree health care or tree preservation. Choosing a company that specializes in the services you require will ensure that you receive the best results.

Some companies provide comprehensive tree service, including pruning, disease treatments, emergency services, and stump removal. Using a single company for all of your property needs can simplify the process and increase the likelihood that the work will be completed efficiently and effectively.

However, there may be situations where a specialist will be able to provide better service for a particular issue. Also, companies that provide 24-hour emergency tree service will protect your property from further damage during a crisis.

Review Contract Terms Carefully

A contract is a binding agreement between you and a tree service provider. Before signing any contract, carefully read and understand all of the terms to avoid disputes about the scope of work, payment, and responsibilities.

Qualify providers with whom you may enter into a contract by asking them to explain any unusual terms or clauses. All legitimate companies will welcome your questions and clarify any confusing terms in the contract.

Specifically review the payment terms of any contract. Payment terms should clearly state any deposit requirements, final payment terms, and any late payment penalties. It is recommended that you avoid any company that requests the entire payment prior to commencing the work. Instead, the standard procedure would call for a deposit to commence work and the final payment to be made upon satisfactory completion of the job.

Also, review any clauses related to the discovery of hidden decay or unforeseen hazards. Clauses addressing change orders and additional expenses will protect both parties from future disagreements.

Evaluate Communication and Professionalism

Your interaction with a tree service company during the initial consultation will generally predict the manner in which the company will conduct itself for the remainder of the project. Providers who respond promptly to your inquiries and treat you with respect for your time will generally treat you with the same respect throughout the project.

Providers that are knowledgeable and can answer your questions in detail, without resorting to too much technical jargon, will also provide you with better service. Providers who explain the procedures, timelines, and potential problems will provide you with a clearer picture of what to expect.

Providers who listen patiently to your concerns will provide you with a sense of security and demonstrate a focus on the customer.

Expectations for Contact Information

Before you authorize any work to be performed, ask the company for contact information for the person assigned to manage the project. Designated representatives should be available to communicate with you, either in writing or by phone, to provide updates on the progress of the job.

Established communication channels will also help eliminate misunderstandings and promote clarity throughout the project.

Consider Environmental Responsibility

Tree service companies that are environmentally responsible will minimize their waste output and contribute to the health of the urban forest ecosystem. Many environmentally responsible tree service companies provide evidence of recycling wood and vegetation debris.

Some companies even provide wood for donation to community-based organizations. Companies that encourage the preservation of trees and recommend alternatives to removal (pruning, treatment, etc.) when feasible demonstrate a true concern for preserving the urban canopy.

Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, after reviewing information and interviewing potential providers, you must rely on your instincts to select a tree service provider that meets your needs. If a provider makes you feel uncomfortable due to their lack of transparency or their aggressive sales tactics, do not hire them.

While it is reasonable to spend time comparing various providers and researching their backgrounds, ultimately, your comfort and trust in the provider are the most important factors to consider.

By taking the time to evaluate and research potential tree service providers, you will be investing in your property, as well as your peace of mind. At Union City Tree Experts, we understand the importance of evaluating tree service providers to ensure that you are getting quality service from qualified professionals. Our certified arborists have decades of combined experience in providing professional tree services to the residents of Union City. We are fully insured and licensed to provide the services you need, and we will assist you in navigating the permitting process required to protect your interests. Whether you need routine tree maintenance or have a large tree that needs to be removed, our experienced staff will safely and efficiently complete your project.