How to identify a good tree surgeon

Mark Jones Tree Surgery in Kent pride themselves on the professional advice they offer. Here are some of the frequently asked questions we get asked.

How to choose a good Tree Surgeon?
Do I need permission for work on my tree?
How much does tree work cost?
How do I know what my tree needs?
What is the best time of year for tree work?
What happens to the waste?

How to choose a good Tree Surgeon?

There are three things to check:

  1. Tree Surgeon Qualifications
    All tree surgeons should have climbing and chainsaw qualifications.
  2. Employers and public liability insurance
    A company should have both employers liability and public liability insurance and should be happy to show you.
  3. Waste carriers license
    The waste carriers license is issued by the Environment Agency and enable tree surgery companies to take tree waste away legally.

Do I need permission for work on my tree?

Some trees come under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and will require permission from you local authority before any work can take place. All good tree surgeons will check for a TPO as part of their service and organise the permission. The permission can take up to six weeks to be granted from application.

If your tree is in a conservation area then again you will need to get permission from your local authority

It is always worth checking whether there are any restriction on tree work as failure to do so can result in large fines for both you and the company who performs it.

How much does tree work cost?

The price is dependent on size, situation and type of tree work required. It is always worth getting three quotes so you can compare.

How do I know what my tree needs?

Depending on the type, size and situation of the tree you may need different services from crown reduction to pollarding. For a full range of the services that we offer see our services page.

What is the best time of year for tree work?

Certain trees will require pruning at different times of year for example Walnuts are best done when in full leaf in the summer where as Fruit Trees are best done in the winter. Please feel free to call us and we can give you advice.

What happens to the waste?

Mark Jones Tree Surgery has a Waste Carrier Licence and pride themselves on leaving the site neat and tidy. Waste is removed and recycled into seasoned logs, and wood chips.