You might wonder how to tell if a tree specialist is up to the task if you have never hired one before. Here are the main things to watch out for:
Qualifications are important:
The National Proficiency Tests Council is a part of City & Guilds that oversees the competence tests for tree surgeons. You’ll need a tree specialist who has the following certifications:
- CS30 teaches safe chainsaw maintenance, safe site preparation and basic cross-cutting skills.
- CS31 covers the processing and felling of small trees
- CS38 – How to climb a branch and perform an aerial rescue
- CS39 – How to use a chainsaw with a harness and rope
- First Aid at Work
The certificates aren’t mandatory, but anyone working as a tree specialist without them will not have received adequate training. You need to hire a tree surgeon who has the required training and certification. There are many professionals with this type of training.
Additional accreditations are available:
Asking about a tree surgeon’s qualifications and memberships is a good idea. You can ask if they have a degree or are a certified arborist.
Always get a detailed quote
Request a written quote and make sure that all costs are included. Make sure there are no hidden costs, like equipment rental. Ask if the estimate includes disposal of garden waste. This can be a costly extra when a lot of work is done. You will benefit from being as clear and specific as possible when describing your needs.
Hire a specialist
Avoid the temptation to save money by hiring a gardener to do tree work. This is especially true if it’s a difficult, awkward or delicate job. A gardener may not have the necessary insurance coverage, climbing skills or cutting equipment. No one wants to see a person who is untrained and unprepared climbing a tree while holding a petrol-powered chainsaw! For Tree Surgery Gloucester, contact Geoffrey Urch, a supplier of Tree Surgery Gloucester services.
Right tools for the job
The equipment that a tree surgeon brings to work is a good indicator of his or her professionalism. All workers must wear the right personal protective equipment, such as a helmet, gloves, chainsaw protective clothing and boots, and ear protectors. They should always use both a harness as well as a rope when working in trees.
Who does the work?
You may not meet the person who will complete the job. You should know what aspects of the work will be carried out by the tradesperson and which will be handled by subcontractors or team members.
