Licensed vs Unlicensed Tree Companies: Why Proper Certification Matters for Your Property and Safety

Don’t Risk Your Property and Safety: Why Choosing a Licensed Tree Company Makes All the Difference

When it comes to tree care and removal, the decision between hiring a licensed or unlicensed tree service company can have profound consequences for your property, safety, and financial well-being. While unlicensed contractors may seem appealing due to lower prices, hiring an unlicensed and uncertified contractor to carry out tree care work can leave you exposed to unimaginable risk. Worse, many insurance policies include language that specifically excludes damage caused by unlicensed contractors.

Understanding the Critical Importance of Proper Licensing

While tree removal companies are generally required to be licensed, exactly what is required depends on where you live. Tree removal companies should have both a state or city business license in addition to a contractor’s license. In Suffolk County, NY, where Miguel’s Tree Service operates, tree service businesses must comply with New York State and local licensing rules. Typically, this includes obtaining a business license, any required contractor or arborist certifications, and permits for tree removal or pruning.

Tree trimming and removal requires expert skills, especially safely operating power tools at heights—often in an aerial bucket around power lines. There are certain inherent risks to the job, including falling, sustaining impact injuries, broken bones, and even fatal injuries. Because of those risks, licensing and voluntary certification ensure tree contractors are adequately trained.

The Dangerous Reality of Unlicensed Tree Services

Since there are very few regulations regarding tree removal services, it’s common to find contractors who work without a license. This, however, doesn’t change the fact that these companies are working illegally and stand to face steep fines when caught up by the relevant authorities.

The risks of hiring unlicensed operators extend far beyond legal issues. Unlicensed operators may lack the proper training and equipment to safely remove trees, putting themselves, your property, and bystanders at risk. Additionally, in most cases, homeowners are held liable and must provide compensation for damages and medical expenses, regardless of any legal consequences the tree service company may face for operating without proper licensing or insurance.

Professional Certifications That Matter

Beyond basic licensing, professional certifications demonstrate a tree service company’s commitment to excellence and safety. To determine qualifications, look for a tree service that holds an accredited certification from an industry-wide organization. The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) offer certification in arboriculture.

Tree Worker certifications demonstrate that a crewmember possesses the necessary safety skills and tree science knowledge to perform their duties correctly and with the appropriate care. When you hire a certified arborist, you’re working with someone who has passed rigorous examinations and maintains continuing education requirements.

Insurance: Your Essential Protection

Proper insurance coverage is just as crucial as licensing. Liability insurance ensures that the company will pay for damages to your home or possessions. Worker’s compensation insurance holds the company responsible, not you, if an employee is injured while working on the job.

In New York, for instance, tree service companies must obtain a license from the state and secure insurance coverage from a reputable provider, offering both Workman’s Compensation and general liability insurance. It is highly advisable to exclusively hire tree service companies that are properly licensed and insured, especially in New York, as failure to do so can result in significant costs.

Miguel’s Tree Service: A Model of Professional Excellence

Miguel’s Tree Service exemplifies what homeowners should look for in a professional tree care company. Miguel’s Tree Service is a locally-owned and operated tree company dedicated to delivering exceptional tree care services in Suffolk County, NY. With 15 years of experience in the industry, we have earned a reputation for our expertise, professionalism, and commitment to customer satisfaction.

The company demonstrates its commitment to professional standards through a team of certified arborists, Miguel’s Tree Service ensures knowledgeable and skillful tree care solutions. Their approach prioritizes safety, environmental stewardship, and customer satisfaction, making them a trusted Tree Company Suffolk County, NY residents can rely on for all their tree care needs.

With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, our skilled professionals understand the importance of maintaining the health, safety, and aesthetics of your trees. We utilize the latest techniques and equipment to ensure your trees are cared for properly, enhancing the beauty and value of your property.

The True Cost of Going Unlicensed

While unlicensed contractors may offer lower upfront prices, it might be less expensive to hire someone who’s not certified, but it could cost you more in the long run. That’s because tree care is dangerous work, both in terms of physical safety and liability. Improper techniques can endanger people and property, and cause damage to your trees that makes them more susceptible to pests, disease, and structural insecurity.

Unlicensed companies may not adhere to industry standards, resulting in incomplete or improper tree removal that could lead to future problems. The potential costs include property damage, personal injury lawsuits, fines for non-compliance with local regulations, and the expense of hiring another company to correct substandard work.

How to Verify Licensing and Credentials

Before hiring any tree service company, take these essential steps:

Making the Right Choice for Your Property

We always recommend that you work with a trained, licensed, certified, and insured tree removal company. While they might be more expensive, they make up for the cost with quality work. A licensed and certified contractor is more likely to understand the job and will do it safely without putting you or your property in harm’s way.

When you choose a properly licensed and certified tree service company like Miguel’s Tree Service, you’re not just hiring a contractor—you’re investing in peace of mind, professional expertise, and protection for your most valuable asset: your property. The benefits of expertise, safety, and legal compliance far outweigh any short-term cost savings you might find with unlicensed services.

Don’t compromise on safety and quality when it comes to tree care. Choose licensed, certified professionals who prioritize your property’s safety and your family’s well-being above all else.