Tree removal will cost you money- in some cases, a lot of it. However, what many homeowners don't know is that there is no fixed amount for tree removal pricing. A professional tree removal service determines the cost based on different factors. If everyone understands how a tree company comes up with the pricing, homeowners will be more objective when deciding what is best for his or her tree.

We first need to know what comes along in standard tree removal. For many companies, they will climb up the tree, cut it into manageable segments, until they are left with the trunk. They will also take care of the limbs and debris without an added charge. The following are some services that are not included in a tree removal service:

• Stump removal- It is very common that stump removal is not included in a tree removal package. If you have extra cash in your pocket, you can have this added to their service.
• Limb chipping- In most cases, a tree company will have chippers available with them. It is up to you whether you want it hauled away in your property or chipped. It may cost you around $100 to add this service.
• Tree trunk removal- A tree company will cut the trunk into smaller segments, but hauling them off is not typically part of what you paid for tree removal.
• Log splitting- If you want to save some wood for firewood purposes, you may add $75 for the company split the wood into a size ideal for firewood.

How much will it cost to remove my tree?
After knowing the cost for additional services, it is now time to discuss the actual price you have to pay for tree removal. The price will largely depend on the size of the tree as  shown in the breakdown below:

• Large tree removal costs $1,500- A reputable company will not remove your tree for some hundred dollars. If you ever find a company who offers bargain and low-ball offers, don't get too excited because they might be a scam. Don't compromise on the quality of the service just to save money. Your safety is still worth more than anything.
• Fallen tree removal costs $150- Unlike a living tree, the risks involved in removing a fallen tree is significantly reduced. You have to be specific with the tree company if you want the tree hauled away or just chipped off into small segments.
• Tree branch removal costs $300- If you don't need your entire tree to be removed, but there are dead branches here and there, you can ask the tree company for their branch removal service. You may need to contact your utility service if the branches interfere with electrical lines. This may save you money, but if you need them removed for aesthetic and health purposes, a tree removal company is who you need to get in touch with.

While it is true that the tree removal cost is significant, it still doesn't amount to the safety and efficiency a professional tree service company can do.

​Choosing a qualified tree service contractor in Chesapeake, VA doesn't have to be hard if you follow the suggestions described below.  Each of these tips will aid you narrowing down the tree businesses in the Hampton Roads area helping you select both the best qualified as well one that offers you the best assurance against injury or accident.  

​The tree service industry has various organizations and associations that offer continuing education and certifications to tree care companies.  Ask any business you are considering about their participation in these organizations such as the International Society of Arborists and Tree Care Industry Association.  

​All qualified tree service businesses should be insured and licensed.  Their Insurance should include two different coverages: liability and workers compensation.  Workers compensation protects the company's employees should an injury should occur on your property.  Minus this coverage, the liability for this will be on on the property owner.   Further, every tree care contractor must have at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance protecting clients from potential property damage that could occur.  Always be sure to ask each tree service for copies of both these policies.

​The first background check you should perform is with their past clients.  Inquire about recent references no older than 3 months - any older will not be representative of their current business operations.   Additionally, evaluate Internet references, such as the Yelp, BBB, Google, and Facebook.  These online sources will provide a good overview of their quality.  

​Do not accept only a verbal estimate.  You could risk a price increase after the tree work is done.  Additionally, does the written quote provide not just the price but also detail the work to be done?

​Compare the price of each estimate but also evaluate that the quotes are for similar work.  Occasionally, the scope of the work estimated will vary from quote to quote so you need to make certain you are evaluating apples-to-apples.  Additionally, you should think strongly prior to selecting the least expensive provider.  Quality, professional tree services are expensive to provide, with the cost of insurance, labor, and equipment to invest in.

​A professional tree service company will need to invest in quality equipment.  This equipment will include stump grinders, wood chippers, bucket trucks, and chainsaws.   Inquire about their equipment to evaluate their investment in their business.  Additionally, inquire about the maintenance and age of the equipment.  Again, maintaining tree care equipment is not a cheap operating cost.  

Most quality tree care companies will be several weeks or even a month out on being able to do your work.  This suggests the company is in demand and the areas they serve recognize their value.  Be leary of a tree company that can quickly do your job. This is not to suggest they are not a quality company, as it may just mean business is slow during the time of you need service; but, be aware of this and evaluate lead times of other businesses you are considering.  

If you follow these tips, you will greatly improve your chances of employing a professional tree service company in the area.   Regardless if you need a large tree removal or just a few tree trimmed, follow these suggestions to avoid hiring a poor tree care contractor.  

Trees like to grow in the most efficient way possible. While this may be true, the fact is it is not. Most trees in suburban areas are able to grow in ways that they would not grow in the woods.  A woodland setting forces the trees to compete for light.  This means they grow up instead of out. In our yards, conversely, your tree will be able to grow in every direction.  As a result, you need to know when it is time to employ a tree service company in Chesapeake, VA.  

Extended Limbs: When a tree has extended limbs there is a strong chance that it is getting too heavy to support its structure. The extended, heavy limbs may break off or cause the tree to uproot. When your maple tree starts to get too wide and extended, it is likely time to trim it.  

Crossing Limbs: Intertwining limbs may seem benign, but in reality, it can cause almost constant rubbing.  If this rubbing causes bark to come off, it may cause the tree more prone to decay. You should contemplate a Chesapeake tree trimming if the limbs start to cross one another.

Dense Limbs: The more limbs a tree has, the more wind catches it. And, the more wind that catches it, the more stress that is placed on the entire tree structure.   However, if you systematically and strategically trim limbs, you will be able to minimize the stress on your tree.

Poor Planting Placement: Sometimes limbs grow into locations where they should not be. This may include extending into your neighbor’s landscape, growing to near a power line or reaching over your roof.  Regardless, poor location is often a key reason for tree pruning in Chesapeake is necessary.  

Tree trimming is a vital tree care landscaping task, yet it is so often overlooked by most property owners.  However, if you want to maintain healthy trees in your landscape, you should hire a tree service in Chesapeake, VA