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If your tree looks sick, bare, or damaged, you might be wondering: can it be saved? Or is it time to let it go? Here in the Hudson Valley, especially in towns like Kingston, New Paltz, and Rhinebeck, we see this question come up constantly. This quick guide will help you spot the signs and make the right call.

Healthy trees, with the right mix of soil, sun, water and fertilizer can last a very long time. However, a combinations of not-ideal conditions and the intrusion of invasive species and emergent diseases can rip through otherwise healthy trees in the Hudson Valley, leaving to a need for immediate tree removal services.

The idea of different tree diseases and invasive species is not new, but it is always evolving. In this blog post, we’re going to dig through the archives of Ulster County and Dutchess County, NY to show some of the ways that tree disease has affected our local trees since the late 1800s.

Early 1900s: The Chestnut Catastrophe

First reported at the New York Zoological Garden in the Bronx in 1908, the fungus Cryphonectria parasitica wiped out three billion of the East Coast’s once-dominant American chestnut trees by the 1960s. One critical lesson learned from fighting chestnut blight was that the solution lied in adapting the host species with tree maintenance services, rather than simply fighting the blight itself.

1919: Kingston Selected as Model City for Tree Planting

In the early 1900s, Kingston was actually known for its trees. The New York State College of Forestry issued a tree survey that identified a number of tree diseases in the city, like chestnut blight, which wiped out most of the chestnut trees in the Northeast. It notes an “elm leaf beetle,” as well as a leopard moth and white-marked tussock moth that were defoliating trees. There were also a number of fungal diseases in the region.

The study also suggested a number of ideal trees that are common in Kingston today, such as Norway Maples, Red Maples, Sugar Maples, Red Oak, Pin Oak, and more.

1930s: Dutch Elm Disease

Dutch Elm Disease made it to the United States via New York City’s imported elm logs from Europe in the 1930s. It caused the death of millions of American elms via elm bark beetles, and devastated trees that were planted in close proximity, which was the practice of urban planners at the time. In 1948, it seems to have reached Kingston, with the Daily Freeman writing “the Dutch Elm disease year by year extends its threat of destruction to these fine trees over a wider area… the blight which destroyed the native chestnuts in the East and Midwest early in the century is recalled.”

1955: Kingston Engages in Aerial Spraying

While there are mixed reports on the effects of spraying, the Mayor of Kingston in 1955 reported that after undertaking an aerial spraying campaign, “the lack of insects and other tree diseases was most noticeable. Our trees are part of the beauty of our city, and I feel we should do all we can to protect them.”

1961: New York Warns of Ash Disease

The State Conservation department warned that an unidentified disease was starting to kill ash trees in the state. This was a precursor to the late 2000s advent of the ash borer disease that has afflicted our area.

1968: Ulster Garden Club Discusses Importance of Tree Trimming to Prevent Disease

In the late 1960s, the City of Kingston had a beautification committee that planted many of the trees along city streets that residents enjoy today. They shared insights from an “exhaustive” Washington D.C. study that showed how tree-trimming, tree removal, disease and insect controls and maintenance are necessary to preserve a city’s trees.

1985: Poughkeepsie Dogwoods Hit by Anthracnose

Poughkeepsie’s 4th ward Alderman warned the city of a “silent killer” of dogwoods known as “anthracnose,” also known as lower-branch disease. He said the first sign of the disease is a purple growth on the leaves.

2009–Present: The Emerald Ash Borer Wipes Out Ash Trees in the Hudson Valley

Ash trees once made up 7% of the biomass in New York State’s forests, with white, black, and green ash thriving across the Hudson Valley. That changed rapidly after the arrival of an invasive beetle from East Asia: the emerald ash borer (EAB). First detected in New York in 2009, and in the Hudson Valley by 2010–2012, this tiny insect has brought towering change, leaving behind stark gray skeletons where lush ash canopies once stood. In areas like Kingston, Saugerties, and Phoenicia, mortality rates of mature ash trees have now reached 99%. The EAB lays its eggs in the bark, and once hatched, the larvae burrow through the tree’s vascular system, cutting off water and nutrients. The infestation spreads faster than nearly any other forest pest ever recorded in North America.

Need help navigating tree disease? Our tree trimming and tree removal services can help you either save your tree or safely move on to your next one. Give us a call at (845) 331-6782 to book a consultation today!

As a tree removal and trimming company that serves the Mid-Hudson Valley, we are deeply attuned to the long-term arboreal trends of our region. One of the best meta sources for information on these trends is called i-Tree Landscape, which aggregates data from a number of federal and non-profit sources to provide a comprehensive overview of land use, tree cover, tree types, and trends across large areas.

We dug into the latest data to get the latest information. Here’s what we found:

1. What are the Dominant Forest Types of the Hudson Valley?

According to the latest statistics, these are the top ecological groupings of trees in the Hudson Valley:

These are the second most common groupings:

Two tree groups dominate the landscape of the Mid-Hudson Valley: the maple/beech/birch grouping as well as oak/hickory. These forests are beautiful, but these species are also vulnerable for storm damage and pests.

2. Ulster County has the Most Tree Volume; By Far

Measured by the total tree basal area (which means tree mass per square foot), Ulster County stands heads and shoulders above its neighbors. This is partly owing to the fact that large areas of Ulster County are preserved from developed due to being the host community for the Ashokan Reservoir as well as Catskill Park.

3. What are the most common trees across the region?

According to their “total basal area,” the top trees in the region are Maple trees (1.6 square miles), Oak (1 square mile), Sugar Maple (0.98 square miles), and Northern Red Oak (0.68 square miles). These trees all appear prominently in our town-by-town breakdowns of common tree species, like in Rhinebeck, New Paltz, Catskill and Poughkeepsie.

4. How Much Developed Open Space Does the Hudson Valley Have?

“Developed, open space” as defined by i-Tree refers to grassy or lightly-built areas, such as large residential yards, parks and golf courses.

Considerations to make for tree services in these areas are that trees are often landscape and beautifying anchors of parks, large yards and golf courses. It’s important to choose a tree removal company that can respect the aesthetics of your property and leave no trace behind.

5. How Much Developed, Low-Intensity Space is there in the Hudson Valley?

This usually means single-family zoned housing areas that have built surfaces and tree hazards like driveways, roofs and sidewalks.

For areas that have single-family homes in a neighborhood, there are a number of considerations for tree services. Small errors can cause major property damage, lawsuits and insurance claims, which is why experience, insurance, and well-maintained equipment are a must.

Many single-family homes also have buried electric lines, irrigation systems, gas lines, septic tanks and other infrastructure near tree roots, which is why proper preparation and double-checking is critical. We also strive to not leave behind turf damage, tire ruts and not damage any garden beds or hardscaping in our trimming or tree removal jobs.

6. How Much Developed, Medium to High Intensity Space is there in the Hudson Valley?

These are highly-developed urban and commercial districts that require the greatest amount of care when it comes to tree removal.

The more development and density, the more delicate tree removal becomes. In a single-family home neighborhood, a tree might be overlooking a house, a garage, a yard; in a more urban environment, a tree can be overhanging several buildings, several apartments, a parking lot, traffic lights, power lines, glass storefronts, HVAC units, sidewalks, and multiple streets. A small limb drop could cause thousands of dollars of damage.

That’s why crane-assisted tree removal is the safest method in tight urban environments.

7. What Percentage of the Hudson Valley is Developed?

If you aggregate the percentages of developed open space, as well as low intensity, medium intensity and highly-intensive developed space, you get an aggregate of how much of the Hudson Valley is developed:

• Columbia County: 9% developed
• Dutchess County: 17% developed
• Greene County: 7.4% developed
• Ulster County: 8.8% developed

Do you need help removing or trimming a tree in Columbia, Dutchess, Greene or Ulster County? Give us a call at 845-331-6782 to schedule a consultation today.

The Wallkill Valley region is a subset of the Hudson Valley; for us in Ulster County, it is bordered by the Shawangunk Ridge to the West and the Marlboro Mountains to the east. There are some specific features of the trees of the Wallkill Valley, which includes towns we serve like Esopus, Lloyd, Marlborough, New Paltz, Plattekill and Rosendale that inform our work at Expert Tree Service.

As a tree company that has provided tree removal and tree maintenance services in region since 1936, here are some of the Wallkill Valley-specific things we’ve noticed:

• Native tree thrive: This region is predominantly stocked with native hardwoods, including birches, maples and oaks, alongside native conifers like eastern hemlock and white pine. Although you can plant many kinds of trees, the native ones are most likely to respond well to the local soil, rainfall and temperature conditions.
• Drought-friendly soil: There are never hard and fast rules about how much rain we’ll get, or when. Luckily, the soil of the Wallkill Valley is thin and well-draining, especially along the many ridges and rocky areas.
• Floodplains and swamps: There are a number of wetlands, creeks and floodplains in the region; if your home is close to one, you may want to consider planting red maple, swamp white oak, or sycamore. They can handle occasional flooding.

Here’s a further, town-by-town breakdown of unique Wallkill Valley features as they relate to trees:

Esopus

Total Forested Area: 15,448 acres
Forest Types: Hardwood & Mixed Forests
Notable Trees (Upland): Pitch pines, red oak, sugar maple, shagbark
Notable Trees (Swampy areas): Red maple, green ash, white oak
Notable Trees (Near Hudson River): Sycamore, eastern red cedar

Lloyd

Total Forested Area: 10,005 acres
Forest Types: Hardwood, Mixed forests, orchards
Notable trees: Oaks, maples and birches

Marlborough

Total Forested Area: 5,691 acres
Forest Types: Hardwood, Mixed forests, orchards
Notable trees: Fruit trees, sugar maple, black cherry, American beech

New Paltz

Total Forested Area: 9,835 acres
Forest Types: Hardwood & Mixed forests
Notable trees: Hemlock, sycamore, silver maple

Plattekill

Total Forested Area: 9,484 acres
Forest Types: Hardwood, mixed forests, orchards
Notable trees: Mature red pine, conifers and deciduous trees

Rosendale

Total Forested Area: 7,417 acres
Forest Types: Hardwood, mixed and coniferous forests
Notable trees: Hemlocks and mixed hardwoods

Tree cavities are holes are a fairly common occurrence in the Hudson Valley, leaving many homeowners to wonder if they pose a risk to their tree’s long-term health. Sometimes, a cavity can be a major warning sign of structural issues, such as from invasive species and tree diseases that have flooded Ulster County and the surrounding area, but otherwise, they can be a natural part of a tree’s life cycle. Assessing and managing tree holes can help maintain tree health and prevent unnecessary intervention.

What Causes Tree Cavities?

Tree cavities can form due to a variety of natural and environmental factors, including:

• Improper Pruning: Poor pruning techniques from inexperienced “tree doctors” can leave behind open wounds, which make trees vulnerable to decay and infestation. The practice of tree topping can sometimes stress and weak regrowth.
• Mechanical Damage: Bumping into trees with lawn equipment, vehicles, or even carving into tree bark can create wounds that expose trees to pests and disease.
• Animal Activity: Woodpeckers will drill holes searching for insects, deer rub antlers against bark, causing abrasions. Insects such as ash borer, woolly adelgid, hemlock scale, carpenter ants and other bark borers can also contribute to tree holes.
• Storm Damage: We have no shortage of storms in the Hudson Valley, so high winds, lightning, and temperature fluctuations can cause bark to split or be stripped away, leading to cavities.
• Fungal Infection and Decay: Some tree cavities result from internal rot caused by fungal infections. This is a more serious concern as it can compromise structural integrity.

Should You Fill a Tree Cavity?

The short answer is no—filling tree holes with cement, spray foam, or other materials can do more harm than good. Trees are blessed by a natural process called compartmentalization, where they create natural barriers to stop the spread of decay and prevent further damage. Adding materials to the cavity can trap moisture, accelerating decay and weakening the tree.

When Are Tree Cavities a Problem?

While many tree holes are harmless, sometimes, they can indicate significant structural issues. Signs that a tree cavity may be dangerous include:

• A cavity at the base of the tree, particularly if it extends into the root system
• Large holes affecting the trunk’s structural integrity
• Visible decay, fungi, or soft, crumbly wood around the cavity
• Leaning or unstable trees with extensive cavities

If a tree cavity is compromising your tree’s stability, tree services such as cabling, bracing, or tree removal may be warranted.

How to Maintain a Healthy Tree with Cavities

If a cavity is present but does not compromise the tree’s stability, the best course of action is to support the tree’s overall health:

• Regular Pruning: Ensure proper pruning techniques to prevent further damage.
• Fertilization and Watering: Provide essential nutrients and hydration to strengthen the tree.
• Pest Management: Monitor for insect infestations and take preventative measures as needed.
• Wildlife Habitat: Many animals, such as owls, squirrels, and bats, use tree cavities as shelter. Enjoy the natural ecosystem benefits of tree holes when they don’t pose a safety risk.

Need Professional Assessment?

If you’re unsure whether a tree cavity is dangerous, give us a call at 845-331-6782. We can help you assess the extent of decay, provide structural support solutions, and ensure your tree remains healthy and safe.

One of the important dividing lines in our line of work as Hudson Valley tree removal experts is the DIY route vs. professional route for homeowners and business owners. There are scenarios where it’s possible to “do it yourself,” and there are other factors related to skill, safety, equipment, risks and complexity where you should absolutely hire a professional. In this blog post, we’re going to go over some of those factors.

Legality

Before you remove or significantly alter a tree on your property, check your local town or village laws. Many Hudson Valley and Catskills towns regulate tree removal near roadways, even if it’s on your private property, since trees are considered important for public welfare, aesthetics, and safety.

Key considerations include:

• Private Property Restrictions: In some areas, even trees on private property (e.g., shade trees or trees near public streets) are subject to regulation and may require permits for removal.
• Dead or Dangerous Trees: Some towns allow immediate removal of dead, diseased, or hazardous trees without a permit, though documentation might still be necessary.
• Permit Applications: Where permits are required, you’ll often need to file an application with the town or village, sometimes including a fee and approval from a specific commission or board.
• Financial Responsibility: Homeowners are often responsible for maintenance or removal costs for regulated trees on or near their property.

To avoid fines or disputes, contact your local government or planning department to confirm specific requirements for your area. Or, to avoid having to do any of that, contact us to schedule a consultation about your tree; we can help you navigate how to legally and safely remove your tree.

Tree Size

Whether you can cut your own tree down or should hire a professional depends on a variety of factors related to safety, skill, equipment, and the complexity of the job. The size of the tree is one of those factors; if it’s on the smaller side, under 15 feet tall, and the trunk diameter is manageable with a handsaw or small handheld chainsaw, under 6-8 inches, then you may be able to cut it yourself.

Tree Location

After considering the size of your tree, you should check: is your tree is far from power lines, structures like homes, sheds, and gardens, and other hazards? Is there ample space for the tree to fall without damage?

Tools, Equipment and Experience

Do you have tools like an axe, saw, chainsaw, and understand how to use them for basic tree-cutting techniques like felling cuts? Can you assess risks like dead limbs and hidden rot? Do you have safety gear like gloves, helmets, goggles and sturdy boots? Then you may be able to cut down a small tree in an ideal location.

When You Should Hire a Professional

If your tree is larger than 15 feet, or has a large heavy trunk, an extensive root system, or is leaning heavily, then you should not attempt to do anything with it without a licensed professional tree company, which will have the professional-grade equipment like cranes, ropes and harnesses to safely handle the job. If the tree is near a home, power lines, roads, or other structures, then you definitely need professional assistance to avoid damage and liability. If the tree is diseased or rotting, or has dead limbs, then for your own safety, you should not attempt to manage the tree yourself.

Finally, a licensed tree removal company will be able to arrange the post-removal work like stump removal, wood disposal and site cleanup to make sure your property is ready for the next thing after the tree.

When in doubt, consult with a licensed, professional tree removal company for an assessment—we can help you decide whether the tree can be tackled on your own or if it’s better left to the pros.

In this blog post, we are presenting the testimonial and before/after pictures of a tree removal in Kingston, NY, with a homeowner who had a beloved but dying ash tree on his property that needed to be taken care of. It’s old news in the Hudson Valley that the spread of the invasive ash borer has made it all but impossible for ash trees to survive.

According to the Ecological Research Institute, the local fatality rates for ash trees as of 2022 ranged from:

Assessing the Tree

There are interventions that can be done to extend the lives of trees that are declining. This ash tree had been trimmed in years past, but it was clear that it was rotting on the inside.

The homeowner made arrangements with us and we had very clear communication about the size and cost of the job, when we’d be there, how long we anticipated it would take, and the steps we’d take to protect his property and clean up after the job.

In the late morning, the job began as we started to cut down the lower branches of the tree:

We took every precaution to have a small footprint on the surrounding neighborhood while ensuring safety:

About an hour into the job, most of the lower branches had been removed:

Using time-tested cabling methods, we were able to ensure that after cutting of the top half of the tree, at least 100 feet up, the result hung harmlessly in the air rather than dropping to the ground or hitting the customer’s house.

With the top half of the tree gone, we then got to work on the thicker bottom half. In this video you can see our crew continuously cleaning the surrounding area.

Eventually, the trunk came down, and it was clear that the tree was rotting from the inside and didn’t have much time left:

The customer, based in Kingston, wrote afterwards: “It gives us such peace of mind knowing that the tree was safely taken down and is no longer looming over our house during every wind or snowstorm. Expert Tree Service lived up their name and did a great job taking down the tree and cleaning up after.”

Zombies are everywhere. Whether in pop culture with shows like the Walking Dead or movies like 28 Years Later, or with turns of phrase like “zombie homes,” “zombie companies,” “zombie cities,” and more, or beloved local events in our region like the Ulster Corps’ Annual Zombie Run; we’ve got zombies on the mind. And today, we’re going to cover a concept that has been around for a long time in our world of tree trimming and removal services: Zombie Trees.

What is a Zombie Tree?

The “zombie” metaphor is used to describe something that is essentially lifeless but continues to act and move. It can refer to trees that are still standing but are already dying or dead due to disease, pests or environmental stress. When a tree reaches a “zombie” stage, it’s beyond saving. They can be especially dangerous because they have a healthy outer appearance, so passersby or property owners might not realize the risk of falling limbs until it’s too late.

What Causes Zombie Trees?

Some of the top causes include:

• Diseases and fungal infections – Check out our guide on how to look out for diseases like dutch elm and oak wilt, which can weaken trees from inside.
• Pests and invasive species – While gypsy moths got the headlines in 2024, pests like pine beetles, emerald ash borer, the woody agelgid, elongate hemlock scale and more have posed long-term threats to our forests and trees.
• Extreme weather events – Since 2000, there has been a slight uptick in extreme weather events like high winds, hail, heavy snow, lightning and more in the Mid-Hudson Valley counties of Dutchess, Orange and Ulster. These can cause internal structural damage to trees.
• Root damage – Impacts like construction, root rot or soil compaction can prevent the tree from absorbing water and nutrients
• Old age – Over time, trees naturally weaken

Zombie Tree Signs

Signs of zombie trees include cracks or cavities in the trunk, dead or brittle branches, fungus or mushrooms growing on the bark or near the base of the tree, a leaning or unstable appearance, a lack of new growth, and sparse leaf cover, especially at the crown.

What to Do About Your Zombie Tree

Do you suspect that you have a zombie tree? The best thing to do is to give us a call at (845) 331-6782. We’ll conduct a professional assessment of whether your tree can be saved through trimming and other techniques, or needs to be cut down.

In our home of New York State, businesses have a duty to trim, maintain or remove aging and dying trees on their property under the principles of premises liability and under various local laws. Although there isn’t a unifying statute passed on a statewide level specifically about tree maintenance and businesses, there are several legal principles and regulations that may apply.

1. Premises Liability

In New York State, commercial property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a safe condition. This includes the responsibility to inspect for hazardous conditions, which include dead or dying trees or branches, and to take care of those hazards if they seem like they could pose a risk to any customers, workers or people passing by.

2. Local Laws and Ordinances

Many municipalities in the mid-Hudson Valley have specific laws governing tree maintenance. These laws, to varying degrees, require all property owners (including businesses) to remove dead or diseased trees, and property trim or maintain overhanging branches that are near sidewalks, streets and neighboring properties.

The laws may also address issues such as obstruction of public pathways, trees that encroach on utility lines, and specific requirements for historic districts or environmentally sensitive areas.

For example, in the City of Kingston, there is an ordinance that says: “It shall be the duty of any person or person owning real property abutting on any street upon which property there are trees or shrubs to trim or remove such trees so that they will not obscure or interfere with the view of motorists entering any intersection of the city, obstruct the passage of pedestrians on sidewalks or obstruct the street lights or traffic signs.”

In Saugerties, “Property owners also would have to remove dead, damaged or diseased trees or shrubs that present an imminent hazard, and maintain their parcels in a way that prevents soil erosion and sedimentation.”

In Ellenville, “It shall be the duty of every owner of real property in the Village to keep the shade trees in front of his premises trimmed so that overhanging limbs will not interfere with passersby on the sidewalks or roadway. All overhanging limbs shall be at least nine feet above the center of the sidewalk, and 15 feet above the center of the roadway. All dead and dangerous trees or limbs must be removed.”

In New Paltz, “Every owner of any tree overhanging any street or right-of-way within the Village or public utility company shall prune the branches so that such branches shall not obstruct the view of any street intersection nor obstruct the light from any streetlight and so that there shall be a clear space of eight feet above the surface of the street or sidewalk. The owner shall remove all dead, diseased or dangerous trees or broken or decayed limbs which constitute a menace to the safety of the public…”

3. Neighboring Property Rights

Under New York State common law, a commercial property owner may be held liable if their trees cause damage to a neighbor’s property, such as from a falling branch or the encroachment of roots. By proactively maintaining your tree with trimming services, you can prevent disputes and potential lawsuits.

4. Storm Damage Preparedness

If a tree is documented or known to be in bad or dying condition, and poses a foreseeable risk during storms or adverse weather conditions, a commercial business may have a duty to address the issue in advance.

5. Specific Industry Regulations

If a commercial business has additional safety regulations, such as for a daycare, a nursing home, or a performance venue, there may be additional requirements for tree maintenance to ensure the safety of its clients and patrons.

6. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)

The DEC regulates some aspects of tree care of removal if the property contains protected tree species or trees that are within regulated wetlands or environmental conservation areas. Permits may be required to remove trees in these cases.

For homeowners, the decision to remove a tree is sometimes easy, and sometimes hard. If a tree poses an immediate risk to your family, neighbors, or property, and you’re responding to storm damage or clear signs of disease and decay, it may be an easy decision. If you’re making an aesthetic change, or not sure if the tree will recover from disease or other signs of distress, the decision may not be so easy.

Consulting with the right tree service company near you can be essential to making an informed decision. If you decide to remove the tree, you must ensure the tree company will do the job done safely, efficiently, and at a fair price.

This guide covers everything that Hudson Valley homeowners need to know about when selecting the best tree removal company, helping you make an informed decision to protect your property and investment.

1. Identify Your Tree Removal Needs

Before reaching out to a tree removal company, you should spell out what your exact needs are going to be:

• What kind of service? Tree services can surprisingly vary. Some companies you see online may specialize in emergency removal, stump grinding, or tree trimming, while others offer a full suite of tree and arbor services.
• How big is the tree? Where is it located? Large or hard-to-reach trees may require specialized equipment, affecting the cost and company selection.
• How urgent is the removal? If the tree poses an immediate risk to safety, look for companies offering 24/7 emergency services.

By defining your needs, you can better communicate your requirements to potential service providers.

2. Research Your Local Tree Removal Companies

After spelling out your needs, create a list of local tree removal companies. Here’s how to start:

• Read Online Reviews: Platforms like Google Reviews, Yelp, and social media like Facebook will offer insights from previous customers.
• Seek Recommendations: Ask neighbors or friends who have used tree services recently.
• Look for Experience: Find companies with a proven track record and familiarity with regional tree species and regulations, as this local expertise can be invaluable.

3. Verify Certification and Insurance

Insurance is essential for a reputable tree removal company. A legitimate company should have liability and worker’s compensation insurance to cover any accidents that may occur. Ask for proof of insurance and ensure the certificate is current to avoid liability for damages or injuries.

In the mid-Hudson Valley region, there is a long history of fake “tree doctors” going back to 1915. As the Daily Freeman reported:

“These complaints have come from all sections of the state and are the result of careless and unsatisfactory work upon shade trees in private grounds, streets and parks… overrun by these quack tree doctors who make the wildest promises as to the curing of chestnut blight and other tree troubles.”

Read More: “The History of Kingston’s First Licensed Tree Removal Company“

4. Request Detailed Quotes and Compare Costs

Cost is a major factor, but it’s also important to know what you’re paying for. Here’s how to get clear and comprehensive quotes. Beware of too-good-to-be-true prices. Extremely low prices may indicate a lack of experience, insurance, or quality equipment. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best choice; prioritize quality and safety alongside cost.

5. Evaluate Equipment and Safety Standards

Tree removal requires specialized equipment to handle different sizes and locations safely. Ask each company about their equipment and safety measures:

• Equipment Quality: Professional-grade equipment like bucket trucks, cranes, or wood chippers indicates that a company can handle complex jobs.
• Safety Protocols: Tree removal is inherently dangerous, so it’s essential that the company follows strict safety guidelines. Look for companies that prioritize safety gear and OSHA-compliant practices.

Proper equipment and safety protocols protect both your property and the workers on-site.

6. Understand Additional Services Offered

Many tree removal companies offer more than just tree removal. Depending on your needs, these additional services can add convenience and value:

• Stump Removal: Some companies include stump grinding in their quotes, while others charge separately.
• Debris Cleanup: Make sure debris removal is part of the contract to avoid extra cleanup costs.
• Site Cleanup and Landscaping Options: Some companies offer site restoration services after tree removal, which can be beneficial if you plan to replant or landscape the area.

Clarify what’s included in your service package to avoid unexpected charges.

7. Check References and Reputation

A company’s reputation speaks volumes about its reliability and service quality. Take time to verify their standing by asking for references: a reputable company should be able to provide references from recent clients. Contact these references to learn about their experience with the service, especially regarding professionalism, punctuality, and cleanup.

8. Avoid Scams and High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Unfortunately, the tree service industry has its share of scams. Protect yourself by knowing the red flags:

• Avoid Door-to-Door Contractors: Door-to-door offers are often a sign of an unlicensed or uninsured business.
• Watch for High-Pressure Sales: Reputable companies will allow you time to make a decision without pushing for immediate payment.

By staying vigilant, you can avoid scams and ensure you’re working with a legitimate service provider.

9. Ask About Permits and Local Regulations

Depending on your location, you may need a permit to remove certain trees. A good tree removal company will be familiar with local laws and can guide you through the process:

• Verify Permit Requirements: Check with your city or county government to understand the regulations around tree removal.
• Consult Your HOA (if applicable): Homeowner Associations (HOAs) often have their own rules about tree removal, so consult your HOA before proceeding.

Working with a company that understands these regulations can help prevent delays and fines. We recently published a comprehensive guide to all of the published tree laws in the Hudson Valley, covering Catskill, Ellenvile, Hyde Park, Kingston, New Paltz, Poughkeepsie, Red Hook, Rhinebeck and Saugerties.

FAQs About Tree Removal

How much does tree removal cost?

Tree removal costs vary based on tree size, location, and complexity.

Is tree removal covered by homeowners insurance?

In certain cases, homeowners insurance may cover tree removal if the tree poses a danger or falls due to storm damage. Check your policy for details.

How long does tree removal take?

Removal time depends on tree size and complexity. Simple jobs may take a few hours, while large or intricate removals could require a full day or more.

What happens to the tree debris after removal?

We offer debris removal.

Can I remove a tree myself?

DIY tree removal is highly discouraged, as it can be dangerous and often requires specialized equipment. Professionals have the experience, safety training, and insurance to manage the job safely.