How to Negotiate Tree Removal

The process of cutting down trees involves risks, and that is why most people hire specialists to get the job done. The cost varies, depending on a host of factors. However, to make sure you are not overpaying for the job, you have to negotiate the cost before you hire a tree removal service. In this post, we are going to show you how to negotiate tree removal.

Average Cost of Tree Removal

The cost of having a tree cut down by a specialist may range from $200 to $4000. The task involves hazards like working with heavy equipment and electric lines.

Before you hire a particular tree removal service, talk to several companies and get multiple estimates. Skilled dealers will give you special offers because charges for tree removal are not universal. You can compare a few rates and figure out a fair price.

If the tree is located in a hard-to-reach place, the charge will be higher. If there is a shrub around the tree, the workers will have to clear the shrub before felling the tree.

The risk depends on the density of branches because if the tree is easy to climb, the task will be less risky and therefore the charge will be lower.

A solid tree is heavier and stronger, and felling such a tree may cost more. The cost for having a mature tree cut down can range from $500 to $1500. The base charge is around $1200.

Reasons Why Removing a Tree Costs So Much

As we have already explained, felling a tree is a hazardous task. It requires special appliances and skills. Professional arborists often charge for their level of skills. Trimming a tree, cutting it down, and collecting garbage equal a lot of work.

So, apart from the risky aspect of the task, it involves a lot of physical labor. When you are trying to figure out how to negotiate tree removal, take that physical labor into consideration.

Landowners who are busy with other things do not show interest in engaging in the risky and laborious task of cutting down a tree. Woodworking businesses are aware of this, and therefore they often charge high. If you do not have the skills and the right equipment, considering it a DIY task is not a very good idea.

If there are power systems close to the tree, the task is more hazardous. When it comes to choosing a tree removal service, it may not be a good idea to hire a company that offers very low prices. You have to make sure that the company you choose is qualified for the job.

When You Can DIY

Taking down a tree is no easy task, and it should be taken seriously. That being said, sometimes trees are small enough that you can cut them down yourself. Our rule of thumb is that trees between 10-12 feet and without many limbs can usually be felled by homeowners on their own. But ONLY homeowners who exercise serious care and attention when it comes to cutting down a tree. You’ll need tools, like a large hand saw and a chainsaw at the very least to get the job done. We recommend that you stick with an electric chain saw for ease of use, like this best seller. If you think that you need a more serious chainsaw for a tree you want to cut down yourself, you should think twice about doing the job yourself and call the pros. Some other useful tools are a pruning saw for smaller limbs and a pole saw for higher-up limbs that you want to get rid of before felling your small tree.

How to Negotiate Tree Removal (Solid Tips)

To make sure you are not overpaying, negotiate the cost when you hire a tree removal service. Here are some effective ways to save costs:

Store Logs for Firewood

To pick up dense logs, some arborists charge additional fees. You can save some costs by keeping the logs as firewood. If the service wants to take the logs, you can negotiate and decide to keep the logs.

Remove the Garbage Yourself

When hiring a tree removal service, you can offer to cut branches and prune limbs, and pay a lower fee. If you can handle the task, you will end up saving a significant amount of money.

Remove the Stump by Hand or Leave It There

There are two ways to pay for getting a stump removed: by piece or by inch. If you decide to pay by the piece, it may cost around $100 per piece. And if you want to pay by inch, you will have to pay $2 to $3 per inch.

Depending on the diameter of the stump, the cost can go up to $300. To do it yourself, you will have to rent a stump shredder. The rental fee can be around $150. And if you think you do not have time for doing it, you can simply leave the stump there.

Ask for Set Discounts

If you have a lot of trees to cut down, a tree removal service may give you set discounts. These companies usually agree to offer set discounts if they get a large project to work on. On your part, having all your trees cut down at once may be economical.

Consider Hiring a Minor Company

Large tree maintenance firms often charge more, partly because they have more experience and use advanced equipment. Smaller companies offer services at cheaper rates because these companies are still trying to build a client base. By hiring a relatively small company, you can save some money.

However, make sure that the company has insurance. A small company may take a little longer to get the job done, but rest assured that you will not have to overpay for the task.

Other Factors to Consider

The cost may get higher or lower depending on a lot of factors. If you are wondering how to negotiate tree removal, keep the following factors in mind when you talk to a company.

Access to the tree is one of the most important factors that determine the cost. Cutting down a tree may be more costly if the climbers have no other option but to reach certain bushes via ropes.

The difficulty of garbage collection will also increase the cost. You will be able to get the job done for a cheaper price if the tree is located in an open space, with no electrical wires or other structures nearby.

Other important factors include the height of the tree, whether it is a fallen tree, obstacles, hazards, and additional services.

Final Thoughts: How to Negotiate Tree Removal

Negotiating the terms is as important as finding a good tree removal service. If you discuss everything before the workers dive into action, you will not have to deal with any unpleasant surprises. We hope now you have a better understanding of the different aspects of tree removal, and know what a good negotiation should look like.

For professional tree removal, contact your local Danbury tree service company and you can start the process.