Like everything in life, hiring a trained professional brings many benefits. Arborists and tree surgeons are no exception. Whilst homeowners are often keen to maintain their own property and grounds, a specialist grounds maintenance company like AM Ground Maintenance can provide important services that individuals are not always aware of.
Like everything in life, hiring a trained professional brings many benefits. Arborists and tree surgeons are no exception. Whilst homeowners are often keen to maintain their own property and grounds, a specialist grounds maintenance company like AM Ground Maintenance can provide important services that individuals are not always aware of. Certain grounds maintenance tasks require specialist equipment. Carrying out jobs without proper training or adhering to industry safety procedures can not only produce less professional results, but also endanger lives. Poor tree surgery can often result in personal injury, damage to property and the destruction of long established trees. Furthermore there are legal protections afforded by hiring a good tree surgeon. Should a homeowner attempt to undertake his own maintenance, any injury to themselves or a third party on the property will result in them being liable. Any damage to their property could result in a hefty repair bill. Whereas employing the services of a qualified arborist protects the homeowner. They will have public and employer’s liability insurance, which will protect their own workers, third parties and any damage to property in the unlikely event an accident should occur.
What services does a tree surgeon carry out that I can’t do myself?
Tree felling, clearance, pollarding, stump removal, crown reduction etc are all jobs that are best performed by a qualified tree surgeon or arborist. All of these tasks require heavy machinery and considerable professional training to operate them. In addition to the chainsaws and heavy duty cutters, arborists will safely be able to fell and reduce trees and branches, using a system of nets and harnesses. As well as this a reputable grounds maintenance company will be able to clear away and dispose of any debris and vegetation.
Will hiring a qualified tree surgeon help maintain the health of my trees?
All reputable tree surgeons regard the health of each tree as of paramount importance. General maintenance from a knowledgeable arborist will prolong the health and longevity of your trees and bushes. They will know how far to safely cut back branches and do so to the optimum amount to promote their growth and future health.
Will hiring a qualified tree surgeon help maintain the health of my trees?
All reputable tree surgeons regard the health of each tree as of paramount importance. General maintenance from a knowledgable arborist will prolong the health and longevity of your trees and bushes. They will know how far to safely cut back branches and do so to the optimum amount to promote their growth and future health.
Why should I spend money on a qualified tree surgeon when there may be cheaper clearance options available?
It is important to realise, that whilst some companies might seem to be able to offer competitive rates, a qualified tree surgeon offers years of specialised experience. Rogue traders might quote cheaper prices, but they will be bypassing the costs incurred by a reputable arborist. Years of training, experience, highly qualified staff and modern equipment will provide assurance and peace of mind to the customer. In addition a good tree surgeon will be able to answer any questions you might have and also guarantee his work.
Moreover, as touched on above, a cheaper quote might also be bypassing insurance costs. A reputable company will be fully insured and protected so there is no financial risk to the customer. Should a client attempt their own maintenance or employ a rogue trader, any damage to property or public highways could result in a bill running into thousands or even millions of pounds.
What questions should I ask when hiring a professional arborist?
i ) What insurances do you hold?
They should have both public and employer’s liability insurance to cover any damages to person or property up to at least £5 million. A reputable company will have no problem if you request to see their certificates of insurance. Should they fail to provide this or become agitated at the request, you should look elsewhere.
ii ) What qualifications do you hold?
All tree surgeons and arborists should hold up to date NPTC certification for using chainsaws, both on the ground and aerially. Further technical and safety qualifications may also be held, and once more the company you employ should be able to provide evidence of these.
iii ) Does your work conform to British Standards?
All tree surgeons should conform to BS3998: 2010 - Tree Work Recommendations. This is the industry standard and it’s always worth checking that the company you employ adheres to this.
iv ) Can I see some references please?
Any reputable grounds maintenance company will gladly provide references and testimonials from satisfied customers. These should reassure you that their tree surgery is performed to a high standard and meets all safety requirements. At AM Ground Maintenance, we would be happy to supply evidence for all of the above!
Finally, check all contact details. When employing a local contractor, ensure that their contact details are complete. For instance when employing a company in the Norwich area, make sure that their address is in or around Norwich, that they have a contact telephone number beginning with area code 01603 etc. It is important that there is transparency with the company you are choosing and they are not attempting to hide anything or make contact difficult.
AM Ground Maintenance is a family run business with over 25 years of experience in the Norwich area. Get in touch today to discuss your needs.