If you wish to plant trees or other plants, or investigate a tree showing signs of pests or disease on your property – you need to hire a tree specialist as these activities do not involve Council.
Ask questions before hiring
Some important things to consider before engaging any contractor include:
- checking your chosen arborist's qualifications and experience
- asking for proof of insurance and then phoning the relevant insurance company to double-check
- ensuring they are aware of, and comply with, any local law, eg City of Boroondara – Tree Protection Local Law No.1F, or any state laws that govern their work
- asking for references and then checking them or visiting other work sites where the company or individual has worked
- checking their membership in professional organisations such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA): such membership demonstrates a willingness to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and information
- obtaining more than one quotation – then examine the credentials and the written specifications of submitted quotes and determine the best combination of price, work to be done, skill and professionalism to protect your trees.
- asking for a contract – then reading it carefully and asking questions:
- When will the work commence and finish?
- Who is responsible for clean up?
- What does the total price include?
- If I need more work done, what is your hourly rate?
- Finally, professional arborists will perform only accepted practices. Unacceptable practices include lopping, removing excessive amounts of live wood, using climbing spurs on trees that are not being removed and removing or disfiguring living trees without just cause. Find out more about a company's practices via the reference check.
Further information: