How to Choose a Tree Surgeon You Can Trust
When it comes to tree work, choosing the right contractor isn’t just about price, it’s about safety, quality, and protecting your property.
Tree surgery is a skilled and potentially dangerous job. Done properly, it improves the health and safety of your trees. Done poorly, it can lead to damage, legal issues, or even serious injury.
So how do you choose the right tree contractor?
Here’s a simple guide based on Arboricultural Association guidance and industry best practice.
Check for Proper Qualifications
A professional tree surgeon should hold relevant qualifications such as:
NPTC (City and Guilds) certificates for chainsaw use
Training in climbing and aerial rescue
First aid certification
These aren’t optional, they’re essential for safe working.
👉 If someone can’t show proof of qualifications, walk away.
Make Sure They Have Insurance
Any reputable contractor should have:
Public liability insurance (minimum £5 million recommended)
Employers’ liability insurance (if they have staff)
Tree work carries risk, if something goes wrong, you need to know you’re protected.
👉 Always ask to see insurance certificates.
Look for Industry Accreditation
The gold standard in the UK is:
👉 Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor
This means the company has been independently assessed for:
Safety
Work quality
Training
Business practices
👉 Not all good contractors are approved, but it’s a strong sign of professionalism.
Get a Written Quote (Not Just a Price)
A proper quote should include:
Clear description of the work
What will happen to waste (logs, woodchip, etc.)
Traffic management (if needed)
Timescales
Be wary of vague pricing or “we’ll sort it on the day” approaches.
👉 Clarity upfront avoids problems later.
Check They Understand Tree Protection Laws
Tree work is often subject to legal restrictions, including:
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)
Conservation area rules
A professional contractor will:
Check this for you
Advise if permission is needed
Handle applications if required
👉 Cutting a protected tree without permission can lead to fines.
Look at Their Equipment and Team
Professional tree contractors should have:
Proper PPE (helmets, chainsaw trousers, etc.)
Well-maintained equipment
A trained team, not just one person
Tree work is rarely a one-man job.
👉 If it looks unsafe, it probably is.
Check Reviews and Previous Work
Look for:
Google reviews
Social media posts
Case studies
A good contractor should be proud to show their work.
👉 Consistency matters more than one or two good jobs.
Be Careful of “Too Cheap” Quotes
Tree work is labour-intensive and requires skilled people and equipment.
If a quote is significantly cheaper than others, it could mean:
Lack of insurance
Poor training
Corners being cut
👉 Cheap work can end up being very expensive to fix.
Ask About Waste and Sustainability
A professional contractor should:
Recycle wood and chip where possible
Minimise waste
Work responsibly
This is increasingly important for:
Environmental impact
Responsible tree management
Choose Someone You Trust
Finally; trust your instinct.
Ask yourself:
Are they professional?
Do they communicate clearly?
Do they explain things properly?
👉 You’re not just buying tree work, you’re trusting someone with your property.
How Beechwood Can Help
At Beechwood Trees and Landscapes Ltd, we work across local authorities, housing, highways, and private clients, delivering safe, professional arboricultural services.
We are:
Fully qualified and insured
Arboricultural Association Approved
Experienced across all aspects of tree care
Whether it’s a single tree or a large-scale project, we’ll guide you through the process properly, from first enquiry to completion.
📞 Need Advice or a Quote?
Get in touch with our team today and we’ll be happy to help.
👉 www.beechwoodtrees.co.uk
👉 0800 328 7988
