Employing a Tree Surgeon
How to select a Tree Contractor
An Arboricultural contractor, sometimes described as an ‘Arboriculturist’, ‘Arborist’ or ‘Tree Surgeon’, will undertake tree work to a specification. You should always contact the Planning Authority to find out if your trees are covered by a:
If your trees are protected, you will need written consent to carry out the work. You can find details of contact numbers on the Contact list page.
Before employing a tree contractor get at least two written quotes and be aware that the lowest quote may not be the best one. Contractors may say they are members of a trade association. Check the validity of any such claim.
The Arboricultural Association produces a list of approved contractors telephone 01794 368717 or download the list at www.trees.org.uk
Reputable contractors will be happy to answer all your questions on how best to care for your tree, determining what type of pruning is necessary to maintain or improve the health, appearance, and safety of trees.
These techniques include:
- Eliminating branches that rub each other.
- Removing limbs that interfere with wires, building facades, gutters, roofs, chimneys, windows, or that obstruct streets or pavements.
- Removing dead or weak limbs that pose a hazard or may lead to decay.
- Removing diseased or insect-infested limbs.
- Creating better structure to lessen wind resistance and reduce the potential for storm damage.
- Training young trees through formative pruning.
- Removing limbs damaged by adverse weather conditions.
- Thinning or removal of branches to increase light penetration.
- Improving the shape or silhouette of the tree.
Once you have selected a contractor, ensure that the work to be carried out for the agreed sum is in writing and that it includes the removal of all arisings. Avoid contractors who use the words ‘Lopping’ and ‘Topping’ and most reputable contractors won't be found knocking on doors! The contractor should provide proof of at least £2 million Public Liability Insurance. £5 million is recommended for works on or adjacent to the public highway.
Remember tree work can be dangerous and all contractors must be trained and qualified to carry out tree work. Health and Safety Regulations that anyone using a chain saw at work must have received adequate training and be competent to operate a chain saw safely?
Any Tree Contractor you employ should be able to produce a certificate of competence or national competence award. The National Proficiency Test Council (NPTC) is the most usual certificate. Most contractors holding this certificate will have an identity card, which has a photograph and a list of the units of, competence passed.
You should also think about the following
Insurance and risk assessment: all contractors should have public indemnity insurance cover for the works that they undertake and the risks involved. Before the tree contractor starts ask if they have carried out a risk assessment.
Personal and protective equipment: all contractors operating tree work machinery must use the appropriate safety clothing and equipment.
Free climbing: no contractors working in a tree can do so without being securely anchored into the tree by means of a rope and harness, unless working from a hydraulic platform or ladder.
Lone workers: no tree contractor should be allowed to work on his/her own where tree climbing is involved.
Roads: contractors working on trees that are adjacent to the public highway, must comply with the requirements of the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991. This requires use of appropriate warning signs, cones and barriers.
We are grateful to the Guildford Borough Council for permission to use this content www.guildford.gov.uk