Sometimes yard work requires heavier work, as if your beloved century-old oak was hit by a major storm and snapped in half. it will certainly take more than a couple of tree trimmers to fix it. this is when it helps to call a tree removal service.
When considering a tree removal service, it’s important to verify that the company has adequate insurance to cover any accidents or damage to the site. Accidents happen, and when they do, insurance will protect both people and property afterward. Here’s how to check if your tree removal professional is insured.
Reading: How to verify tree service insurance
what types of insurance to look for
There are several types of insurance for tree service contractors, but arguably liability insurance and workers’ compensation are the most important. the company’s website may indicate whether or not they are insured, but this is not always the case. It is important to verify this information to avoid potentially costly problems down the road, such as job site injuries or damage caused during tree removal.
civil liability insurance
Liability insurance will come in handy if accidental damage occurs during the tree removal process. covers both the homeowner and the tree removal professional. Liability insurance offers legal protection if a lawsuit arises for personal injury or property damage.
If the professional you hire has liability insurance, you won’t be affected if they make a mistake while working. however, without liability insurance, you will be responsible for repair bills.
workers compensation
Another key type of insurance every tree removal expert should have is workers’ compensation. Like liability insurance, this type of insurance can protect both the owner and the contractor working on the owner’s property. Workers’ compensation ensures that the contractor or company is liable if an employee is injured on the job. Since work-related injuries come with some of the costliest claims, this is a must for any contractor you hire, no matter the size of the company.
request an insurance certificate
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When looking for the right tree removal professional, don’t hesitate to ask lots of questions, especially about insurance and credentials. here are some questions to ask:
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Do you have liability insurance?
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do you have workers compensation?
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what is the name of your insurance provider?
You can go a step further and request a copy of the insurance certificate. contractors are often happy to provide this documentation, which is great to have on file.
call the insurance company
Without proof of insurance from your tree removal professional, you may need to do additional research to verify that they are insured. delay signing a contract with the company until you confirm this information. Tree removal work can be dangerous, and insurance protects everyone involved, from the owner to the tree removal service and their crew.
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note: an insurance company statement is not the same as a certificate of insurance and is not adequate proof of insurance. While these show insurance coverage, they do not prove that the contractor has actually paid the bill or is up to date. If your tree removal professional can’t provide a current certificate of insurance, call the insurance company to see if your policy is still in effect.
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frequently asked questions
Should logging companies be insured?
Yes, you’ll want to confirm that the tree removal company you hire is insured before proceeding with the job. Look for a company with general liability and workers’ compensation insurance to protect you and your home.
can you cut down your own tree?
You can cut your own tree, but only undertake this project if it is a small tree and you have experience operating a chainsaw. if you need to use a ladder to cut down the tree or tree branches, it’s too big (and dangerous) for you to remove yourself.
Hire a professional who can safely remove the tree without injuring you, themselves, or your home. Either way, check the tree removal regulations of the state you live in before removing a tree to make sure it’s not a historic tree or protected by your city.
how much does it cost to cut down a tree?
You will
pay between $200 and $2,000 to have a tree cut down and removed by a professional. the price difference depends on the size of the tree and any complexities that affect extraction, such as a difficult location or proximity to your home.
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