A tree removal bid that seems too cheap usually is — and the difference shows up in your gutters, your lawn, or your liability. Here's how to vet any company, including us, before anyone picks up a saw.
1. Demand proof of insurance — then verify it
Any legitimate company carries general liability and workers' compensation, and hands you certificates without flinching. Call the insurer to confirm the policy is active; expired paperwork is one of the oldest tricks in the book. If an uninsured climber gets hurt on your property, you can become the liable party.
2. Look for certified arborists, not just cutters
ISA certification means someone on the crew passed exams in tree biology, safety, and rigging — and keeps up with continuing education. Ask who exactly will be on your job and what their credentials are.
3. Get the quote in writing, with scope
A professional quote names the trees, the work (removal, stump, haul-away), the timeline, and the cleanup standard — plus what happens if something gets damaged. Vague verbal estimates are where "extras" appear.
4. Ask about equipment and protection
How will they lower limbs near your roof? What protects the lawn — mats, plywood, designated paths? Companies with the right rigging and ground protection cost more per hour and far less in repairs.
5. Nail down cleanup before work starts
"Full cleanup" means different things to different crews. Confirm: chips hauled or left? Firewood cut to length? Beds raked, driveway blown? Get it in the quote so the final walkthrough has a checklist.
At Timberline, we welcome all five questions — they're the reason our removal quotes run several pages. A company with nothing to hide has nothing to rush.