Finding a Tree Work Contractor
Trees may grow well for many years without pruning. However, they do require regular inspections to ensure safety and amenity. So from time to time some work will be required.
Work on protected trees
Before any work starts, check with the council's planning and regeneration service, whether or not the trees are subject to controls under tree preservation order, conservation area or other planning regulations or the terms of the forestry act. Some trees may also be subject to by-laws or a local covenant, in which case further approval must be obtained.
Selecting a contractor
Avoid door to door callers and those who say they will lop and top trees. This is not a good method of pruning and may turn a healthy tree unwell or even unsafe. All reputable tree work contractors should work in accordance with BS 3998: 2010 "Recommendations for Tree Work".
In Rotherham, this is a minimum requirement when working on protected trees and it is generally included as a condition of any consent. The Arboricultural Association maintains an annual directory of quality assured arboricultural contractors. Please check with their website or telephone: 01242 522152 that the contractor's approval is current.
Individual arborists may be certified by the international society of arboriculture and the arborist's current approval may be checked on their website or telephone: 0121 556 83062
Safety
Working on trees, particularly at heights or in confined situations is potentially very hazardous. So work must be done by competent and well equipped tree work contractors. Before entering any agreement, satisfy yourself that the contractor has a current insurance for public liability and third party risks, together with employer's liability of not less than £5,000,000 and £10,000,000 respectively.
Also, ask to see a current national proficiency test council certificate of competence where chain saws or other arboricultural equipment are used and a risk assessment.
In addition, traffic management orders may be required where the work impacts on the highway. For further advice on street works contact us.
The cost of tree work
It is wise to obtain two or more written quotations, rather than estimates. These should be compared on a like for like basis for the same work. They should include VAT if payable. When contacted, reputable contractors will generally be happy to do the following:
- Carry out a close inspection of the tree.
- Advise on the work and explain any options.
- Help to make sure you understand any follow up work and how often it is required.
Remember there is no standard price for tree work. Restricted space and other constraints on the works and removal of brushwood and rubbish are likely to add significantly to the costs.
The site and any roads used for access should be left clean and tidy. Therefore, ensure that the quotation includes the safe disposal of arisings and the treatment of stumps, roots and wood chips where required. If you decide to keep some logs or woods chips for your own use discuss this with the contractor before they quote. For environmental reasons, you may prefer to use contractors who utilise any recoverable timber and recycle the branch wood.
You should consider composting small amounts for your own garden use. Otherwise green waste may be taken to your nearest household waste recycling centre.
Starting the work
Obtain the quote in writing and ensure it includes all the work required. If you accept a quote, get a firm starting date. This is essential for giving the necessary advanced notice to the council when working on protected trees. You should let your neighbours know if they are likely to be inconvenienced. Discuss the work again with the contractor when they arrive. It is advisable not to pay until the job is complete.
Avoiding disturbance to wildlife
Reputable tree work contractors will do everything possible to minimise the impact of their work on wildlife. However, some work may require further planning to avoid causing harm. In particular, pre-inspections of the tree and its surroundings are strongly recommended. They will help to identify where birds, bats, badgers or other wildlife may be at risk and by law may require a licence before any operations start. Please remember it is important that public safety is not neglected especially where a statutory duty is involved e.g. highways. If in doubt do not delay asking for further advice and guidance.
List of tree work contractors
Here is a list of contractors who offer a tree work service to the general public in the Rotherham area. However, inclusion does not imply any recommendation. The council cannot be held responsible for the advice or actions of any individuals or companies who are listed. The list is not exhaustive and further names are available from the yellow pages.
Last update: 09/12/2011