Important things to consider about tree removal
A lot of thought and planning goes in to removing a tree. Before any cutting even begins you must protect your property, acquire any permits necessary, ensure utilities aren’t an issue, coordinate with your neighbors, work out clean up details, and hire a company with appropriate knowledge and training.
Protection of your property
You need to be provided with proof of insurance policies that provide specific coverage for tree removal services. This is something that many tree services in Houston cannot offer.
Clean up and final touches
Once a tree has been removed, the job isn’t quite complete. Clean up details need to be discussed before removal begins. Then there is still the stump to be dealt with. What to do with the stump depends on how you plan to use the space. Do you plan to replant in the same location? Do you want grass to fill in the area? Or perhaps you have construction plans for the area. How deep the area needs to be ground depends on the future plans for the area.
Utilities
Above ground utilities, such as power and communication lines, can be an obstacle when removing a tree. However, less obvious obstacles are under ground. Heavy logs being drop and/or lowered into the yard can damage some buried pipes and lines. Make sure you are aware of any underground utilities and ensure they are protected during tree removal.
Neighbor concerns
In the event that your tree spans into neighboring yards, coordination with the other home owners is usually necessary. Access must be granted for a crew to work on safely removing the tree using all available space to avoid causing damage to homes and/or fences.
Permitting
Some cities require a permit before allowing a tree to be removed. In cities where permits are needed, the process of acquiring them can vary greatly. A quick search online or call to your city hall should reveal what steps, if any, are needed.
Training
A certified arborist should evaluate a tree before resorting to removal. In some cases trees that show signs of stress can be saved and do not always require removal. In a short consultation an arborist can help you determine if your tree requires removal and provide you with an estimate if needed. The company you hire to remove a tree should be highly trained in the most recent ANSI Z133 safety standards for tree care operations.
