There’s a bewildering array of qualifications for arborists, and you’ll find companies will proudly announce their qualifications. But what does it all mean to you?
Qualifications are absolutely crucial when it comes to choosing a good tree specialist, there are many people working in the tree care industry. Unfortunately, too many of them have little or no training and therefore recommend and carry out bad tree work.
Tree work operations (arboriculture) require a high degree of technical competence, supported by training and experience. For these reasons, pruning and tree removal should only be undertaken by well trained, competent arborists.
Be cautious of individuals who go door to door seeking business, reputable companies do not have time for this. Even if the low price and convenience of selling tree work door to door might seem appealing, do not take the risk before speaking to a professional arborist on the Gold Coast.
QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK YOUR ARBORIST
- Always ask for a quote (in writing) that describes, in detail, the work that the arborist intends to carry out, including how your property will be left.
- Ask if they are a member of a professional organisation such as the Queensland Aboriculture Association
- Ask for copies of their insurances
- Ask for references to find out where the company has done work similar to what you are requesting. Don’t hesitate to check references or visit other worksites where the company or individual has done tree work.
Don’t always accept the lowest quote. You should examine the credentials of the company and determine the best combination of price, work to be done, skill and professionalism.
A low quote may be an indication of the poor quality of the work that will be undertaken. When comparing quotes you should not simply focus on the financial aspect, but you should also take a number of other things into account. For example, the technical and organisational skills, the know-how and expertise, the professionalism and the guarantees regarding the successful outcome of the work.
SERVICES YOUR ARBORIST CAN PROVIDE
Pruning
Pruning techniques aim to eliminate hazardous branches, reduce wind resistance and increase the health and longevity of your trees.
Tree Removal
In some instances, pruning is not always the answer and tree removal can be the only solution for a variety of different reasons, such as major structural weakness, dead/dying trees of property damage.
Emergency Tree Care
Where you have an emergency situation such as a fallen tree or branches or where a tree has been damaged and needs urgent attention to prevent further damage from happening to your property.
Tree Planting
Some arborists plant trees and can usually recommend species that are suitable for a particular location, taking into consideration the space available, the future growth of the tree including the root growth.
Stump Grinding
An effective way of removing a tree stump is to grind it down to 150-300mm below ground level. Leaving you with a workable area ready for your next landscaping project. Stump grinding is the professional way to have your tree stumps removed safely without leaving any hazardous pieces behind.
Tree Reports
Tree reports can be used to submit to the council for planning purposes, or as tree health assessments. Tree reports usually detail the species, health, structure and form of your trees. Any potential risk can be identified and necessary work prioritised accordingly.
Vegetation Management Plan
Prepared by a level 5 arborist; vegetation management plans are relied on when a site such as a school, golf course or development need to monitor the health of their trees especially during the construction process.
