If you have trees that need expert care, removal, or trimming—especially large or mature ones—it’s time to call in a professional arborist. But not all tree services are created equal. Before you hire someone to care for the trees on your residential, commercial, or municipal property, there are a few key facts to understand.
Here are five things you should know before hiring an arborist to ensure your property—and your trees—are in the right hands:
- Certification Isn’t Everything—But Experience Is
- Proven experience working with a wide variety of tree types
- Positive customer reviews on third-party platforms
- Transparent business practices and communication
- Memberships or licenses that reflect a commitment to safety and professionalism
- They Must Have Liability and Workers’ Comp Insurance
- Protects you in case of property damage or injury
- Covers their workers if someone gets hurt on the job
- Shows they take safety and accountability seriously
- If a Tree is Over 15 Feet, Hire a Pro
- Different Trees Require Different Expertise
- Arborists understand the biology and structure of various tree types
- They use species-specific techniques to ensure long-term health
- They know how to spot disease or decay early
- Prices Vary—And That’s Normal
- Tree size and location
- Level of difficulty (e.g., near power lines or structures)
- Equipment and crew needed
- Clean-up and disposal requirements
Not every qualified arborist carries a certification, and that’s okay. While certification from organizations like the ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) shows that a person has passed certain exams, it doesn’t always speak to their hands-on experience.
What matters most:At the end of the day, someone who’s been safely and skillfully working in the field for years will often bring more value than someone with a certificate but limited real-world knowledge.
Tree work is risky—even for professionals. That’s why it’s absolutely essential that your arborist carries both liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage.
Why it matters:Always ask to see their certificate of insurance—and feel free to call the insurance provider to verify coverage.
A common question property owners ask is: When do I need to call an arborist?
Rule of thumb: If the tree is taller than 15 feet, it’s time to bring in a professional. Trimming or removing large trees can be dangerous and requires specialized equipment and training.
DIY tree work beyond a certain height isn’t just risky—it can be deadly. Arborists are trained to assess the situation, avoid damage to nearby structures, and work safely at height.
Each tree species has its own growth habits, structural needs, and vulnerabilities. That means pruning a pine is not the same as trimming a maple—and removing a dead fir isn’t the same as grinding out a storm-damaged alder.
Why this matters:The wrong cut at the wrong time can permanently damage or even kill a tree. A knowledgeable arborist protects your investment.
Not all tree jobs are the same, and neither are the costs. Tree trimming, removal, or storm cleanup will all have different pricing factors.
What affects cost:Reputable arborists will provide a written estimate up front, helping you plan within your budget without surprises.
Call an Experienced Local Arborist Today
At P’n’D Logging and Tree Service, we bring decades of experience, proper insurance, and professional-grade equipment to every job. We serve residential, commercial, and municipal clients throughout the Puget Sound region, and we’re proud to offer free written estimates for all services.
Whether you’re caring for one tree or managing a large property, trust our team to handle it safely and professionally.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see the difference a true arborist can make.