Whether it’s because of a storm that left trees down on your property or an old tree that has rotted and is attracting pests, as a homeowner, you will likely need tree removal services.

An arborist, specially trained in tree science and care, can help you determine if a tree needs to be removed.

According to the University of Maryland, some of the things that indicate a tree may need to be removed include:

• Being an undesirable species, including black locust, box elder, princess trees, etc. Some undesirable characteristics of trees include weak wood, dropping debris, shallow roots, or attracting insects specific to the tree species.
• More than 50% of the tree is damaged.
• More than 25% of the trunk shows vertical cracks, seams, or dead branch stubs.
• More than 30% of the interior of the tree is rotting or hollow.
• More than 25% of the branches are damaged.
• Dead branches concentrated on one side of the tree.
• Sprouts at the tree's base or small branches growing from the tree's trunk.
• Large fungus growing near the base of the tree or trunk rot.
• More than 50% of the root system is damaged.
• The tree is leaning from than 15% from vertical.
• The tree is growing too tall underneath a power line.

Trying to fall and remove trees yourself can be very dangerous – to your home, property, and yourself. Once you have determined that you need to remove a tree from your property, you can concentrate on finding the right professional to do it.

Several factors determine tree removal costs. According to U.S. News & World Report, some of the things that affect the cost of removing a tree include:

• Location of the tree and accessibility to it
• Size of the tree
• Tree species
• Condition of the tree
• Urgency
• Whether or not you want the stump removed

Your arborist may have suggestions for a tree removal service. You can also ask friends, family, and neighbors if they have a service they have used and would recommend.

Make sure you get multiple estimates for your tree removal project. At the very least, provide potential services with photos of the trees. When possible, have them visit your site to see the trees in the context of your property. Don’t always go with the lowest estimate; an unusually low estimate may indicate that the service cuts corners.

Get all estimates in writing, and do not pay the full price until the work is done. Be sure any agreement includes who is responsible for cleanup after the project and disposal of the debris.

Ensure your tree removal service has all the required licenses and insurance for your city, state, or province. You should also check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if there is any coverage for tree removal – either proactively before a tree falls or after a storm or other natural disaster.

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