May 30, 2008

LINCOLN, Neb. — As residents across Nebraska continue clearing storm damaged trees, forestry experts remind them that hiring an arborist requires careful consideration.

"A qualified arborist will do tree work properly and, most importantly, safely," said Eric Berg, Nebraska Forest Service community forestry program leader. "An unqualified person may further damage the tree and, more importantly, may not be insured. This could result in liability issues for the client that could easily run into the tens of thousands of dollars should the arborist be injured or cause damage on the client's or a neighbor's property."

To ensure tree work is done properly and safely, Berg said there are some things to keep in mind when hiring or contracting with an arborist:

– Check the local telephone directory's yellow pages under "Tree Service" for a listing of businesses that do tree work in the area. While anyone can be listed in the phone book, a listing at least indicates some degree of permanence.

– Be cautious of any arborist who advertises "topping" as a service. "Topping" is harmful to trees and is not an approved tree maintenance practice.

– Ask whether the person who will be doing the work is a member of and certified by either the Nebraska Arborists Association or the International Society of Arboriculture. Certification is not required by the State of Nebraska, but it does indicate that the arborist has a high degree of knowledge and maintains proper liability insurance and training requirements.

– If the arborist is not certified, determine if he/she is a member of any professional organizations such as the Nebraska Arborists Association, International Society of Arboriculture or Tree Care Industry Association. Membership in these or other professional organizations does not guarantee quality but does indicate professional commitment.

– Ask for certificates of insurance, including proof of liability for personal and property damage and worker's compensation. Then, contact the insurance company to make sure the policy is current. Under some circumstances, owners can be held financially responsible if an uninsured worker is hurt on their property or if the worker damages a neighbor's property.

– Ask for local references. Take a look at some of the work and, if possible, talk with former clients. Experience, education and a good reputation are signs of a good arborist.

– Don't rush into a decision just because there is a discount for an on-the-spot agreement. Be sure it's understood what work will be done for what amount of money. Also, it is not generally a good idea to pay in full until the work is completed. Legitimate arborists won't ask for payment in advance.

– Most reputable tree care companies have all the work they can handle without going door to door. People who aren't competent arborists may see an opportunity to earn quick money and solicit tree work after storms.

– If possible, get more than one estimate.

– A conscientious arborist will not use climbing spikes except when removing a tree. Climbing spikes open unnecessary wounds that could lead to decay.

– Good tree work is not inexpensive. A good arborist may carry several kinds of insurance, as well as pay for expensive and specialized equipment. Beware of estimates that fall well below the average. There may be hidden costs or the arborist may not be fully insured or trained.

To locate a local professional arborist, visit the Nebraska Arborists Association Web site or the International Society of Arboriculture Web site. For more information about caring for storm-damaged trees and proper tree care practices or to view a video about pruning storm-damaged trees, visit the Nebraska Forest Service's Web site.

The Nebraska Forest Service is a part of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at UNL.

5/30/08-BE

Contacts:

Eric Berg
Nebraska Forest Service
Community Forestry Program Leader
(402) 472-6511

Becky Erdkamp
Education & Outreach Specialist
(402) 472-9869

Department:
Nebraska Forest Service