A guide to tree maintenance

If you are hiring someone to do work to a tree on your land, we would still recommend you follow the below advice before employing a tree surgeon - also known as an arborist.

Here's a quick guide of what to ask:

Ask for a written quotation from a recommended tree surgeon

Get more than one quotation from a recommended tree surgeon, if you can. If any companies refuse to give you a quote for the work, don't use them.

Ask to see evidence of insurance

The current recommendation is £5 million Employers and Public Liability cover.

Ask what qualifications they hold

They must have NPTC certificates to use a chainsaw. Most tree surgeons will be able to show you their A4 certificate or plastic ID card.

Do they work to a recognised standard?

They should work to British Standard 3998: 1989. This is particularly important if they are carrying out work to a protected tree. The tree surgeon, or the tree owner, could be prosecuted if they do not follow the British Standard when working on a protected tree.

Check the following before agreeing to any work

• A full written list of the work they have agreed to do.
• What happens to the debris - do they have a licence of a registered disposal site?
• Is VAT included in the price?
• Will they be checking if the tree is protected or do you need to?
• What steps will be taken to protect you and your property?
• If the tree is protected who will get the necessary permission for the work?