It’s not always a good idea to trust a random guy with a chainsaw. Here’s how to find a tree service worth hiring in the Puget Sound area

The trees around your home may need more attention than they’re getting. Disease, pests, and extreme Pacific Northwest weather can quietly turn a healthy tree into a hazard. When it’s time to call a professional, the difference between a good hire and a bad one can cost you thousands of dollars or your roof.

“ConsumerMan” Herb Weisbaum, a contributing editor at Checkbook.org, joined “Seattle’s Morning News” on KIRO Newsradio with advice on how to hire a reliable tree service in the Puget Sound area. Checkbook is currently offering free ratings for 50 Puget Sound area tree services through June 5 on its website.

Tree removal cost in Seattle: why prices vary so much

If someone knocks on your door after a storm offering tree work, walk away.

“Just because a company calls itself a tree service does not mean they are able to come to your house, diagnose the problem, and take care of it properly,” Weisbaum said.

Seek out multiple estimates from established companies instead. Checkbook priced the removal of a 35-foot oak tree in the Puget Sound area and found quotes ranging from $1,355 to $3,650 for the exact same job. Getting several bids is the single most effective way to avoid overpaying for Seattle area tree removal.

What to look for in a Seattle tree service contract

Whatever you expect the crew to do, put it in the contract.

“If it’s not in the contract, assume they’re not going to do it,” Weisbaum said.

Wood hauling is where tree removal costs in the Puget Sound area can spiral fast. Weisbaum received a $10,500 estimate to remove one large tree near power lines, with $3,500 of that just for hauling the wood. He found a separate company through a local homeowners’ club to do the same haul for $950.

How to verify a tree service license in WA

Tree removal is dangerous work. Verify the company holds an active state license using the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries contractor verification tool, and confirm they carry bond and liability insurance.

“If there’s anything with their employee getting hurt, and also if they do any damage to your property, this is very, very important,” Weisbaum said.

He encourages homeowners to pay after the job is done and use a credit card for an extra layer of consumer protection.

When to hire an independent arborist in Seattle

If you’re unsure whether a tree actually needs to come down, hire an independent Seattle arborist before calling a tree service.

“They’re not trying to sell you work, they’re trying to tell you what’s wrong,” Weisbaum said.

Look for certification from the American Society of Consulting Arborists or the International Society of Arboriculture.

Charlie Harger is the host of “Seattle’s Morning News” on KIRO Newsradio. You can read more of his stories and commentaries here. Follow Charlie on X and email him here. 

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