Well maintained trees increase your property values by as much as 15 percent. They also cut heating and cooling bills, clean the air, add oxygen, and help control noise levels. But storms, natural disasters, and poor tree care can damage trees irreversibly, leaving trees open to disease and damage beyond the point of no return. Often, maintaining a tree is less expensive and time-consuming than replacing the tree.

A certified arborist is the best way to get help with damaged trees. Arborists are trained in the science and art of planting, maintaining, pruning, and caring for trees. They have a high level of knowledge in tree care and passed a comprehensive exam developed by leading tree care experts. Services arborists offer include tree removal, emergency tree care, plant health care, pest mediation, and consulting services. 

Finding the Right Arborist

But all arborists are different. Some have more experience in certain areas than others or specialize in certain aspects of tree care. So, picking an arborist that meets your needs can be a challenge. Below are some tips on hiring an arborist that can help you pick one that’s right for you:

1. Beware of door knockers. They often emerge after storms and lack the requisite tree care knowledge and experience. So, check the person’s membership in professional organizations, such as:

• International Society for Arboriculture (ISA)
• Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA)
• American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA)
• ISA arborist certification.

• Ask for certificates and proof of insurance. Make sure the arborist has personal and property insurance as well as workers’ compensation insurance. Phone the insurance company if you have doubts.

• Check for required permits and licenses and ask for references to find out where the arborist has done work similar to what you want done. If an arborist gives you references, contact them. If possible, visit the arborist’s previous worksites.  

• Don’t be rushed into a bargain or pay in advance. Instead, get multiple estimates before choosing an arborist. It may cost you some money for the estimates, and it may extend the project’s completion. But it’s the best way to ensure you get the right person for the job.

• Determine the best choice based on cost, the work to be done, and the arborist’s skill, professionalism, and field experience.

• Ask if they use climbing spikes. A serious arborist will not use climbing spikes if the tree is to remain in the landscape.

• Review the services the arborist offers. A conscientious arborist will offer various services, including pruning, fertilizing, cabling, bracing, lightning protection, and pest control. 

• Beware of an arborist that’s eager to remove a living tree. Good arborists will look at several tree care options before recommending removal. Removing a tree is the last resort.

Trees can increase your property value significantly. So, investing the time and money to find the right arborist is one of the best investments you can make. Tapping an arborist to help you care for a damaged tree makes sense. Educating yourself about the basic principles of tree care is a great way to help you choose a qualified arborist that fits your needs.

For more information on hiring certified arborists, contact the Rhode Island Tree Council at 401-764-5885. Or, consult RI Tree’s website.