If you need the services of a tree surgeon, but have never used one before, you might be wondering how you tell if they are up to the job or not. There are some main points to look out for and here they are:
- Check they have these important qualifications
The governing body that issues competence for tree surgeons is part of the City & Guilds group called the National Proficiency Tests Council. Ideally, you’ll want a tree surgeon with the following certification:
- CS30 which involves safe maintenance of chainsaws, safe on-site preparation and basic cross cutting skills
- CS31 which covers the felling and processing of small trees
- CS38 – How to climb a tree and carry out an aerial rescue
- CS39 – How to operate a chainsaw from a rope and harness
- First Aid at Work
These certificates are not mandatory but anyone operating as a tree surgeon who doesn’t hold them, won’t have had sufficient training. There are plenty of professional tree surgeons with the correct training and certification, so you shouldn’t have to use one who is fully trained. For a Tree Surgeon Dorset, visit https://kieranboylandtreeservices.com/
- Ask about additional accreditations
A tree surgeon could have all kinds of relevant training and membership, so don’t be afraid to ask. Perhaps they hold a degree, are a trained arborist, have extra NPTC certification or an approved contractor of the Arboricultural Association, for example.
- Always get a detailed quote
Ask for a written quotation and ensure that the work is broken down showing everything that’s included in the total cost. Be sure that there won’t be any additional costs that come as a surprise, such as equipment hire. You’ll also want to ask if the quote includes the disposal of garden waste, which can be excessive when lots of work is being carried out. It will always benefit the tradesperson if you’re as specific and clear as possible about what you want.
- Always hire a specialist
Never be tempted to cut costs by using a general gardener or maintenance person to carry out tree work, even more so if the job is awkward, delicate or difficult. Remember that a gardener might not be covered by the relevant insurance, have the right climbing training or the safest, best cutting equipment. Nobody wants to see an untrained, unprepared person climb a tree with a petrol chainsaw in their hand!
- The right tools for the job
A good indication of the professionalism of a tree surgeon is to look at the equipment he or she brings to the job. All workers should be wearing the correct personal protective gear, including a helmet with visor, gloves, chainsaw trousers and boots and ear defenders. When working in a tree, they should always be using both a harness and a rope.
- Who is doing the work?
The person you speak to or visit might not be the one who arrives to complete the work. It’s important to know which aspects of the job will be completed by the experienced tradesperson themselves and what, if any, will be done by team members or even sub-contractors.