Tree removal can be a necessary but costly expense, leaving many homeowners surprised by how expensive it is. If you’re facing this situation, don’t worry—there are ways to negotiate a fair price and even save some money. This guide will walk you through the steps you need to take before and during the negotiation process to help you keep costs down while ensuring the job is done safely and professionally.
How to Negotiate Tree Removal
Assess the Situation
- Is the tree removal an emergency?
- If your tree is posing an immediate danger, like after a storm, your options for negotiation may be limited, and emergency services tend to be more expensive.
- How large are the trees?
- Larger trees or those with extensive branches will be more expensive to remove.
- Where are they located?
- Trees near buildings, power lines, or other obstacles are more difficult (and dangerous) to remove, which increases costs.
- What are your local regulations?
- In some areas, you may need a permit to remove a tree, and some cities have restrictions on cutting down certain types of trees. Check your local rules before proceeding.
Getting Quotes
Once you’ve evaluated your situation, it’s time to start gathering quotes from tree removal companies. Follow these steps to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Shop Around
Get quotes from at least three different companies. Prices can vary widely depending on the company’s experience, equipment, and location. Don’t just settle for the first quote you receive—taking time to compare options can save you hundreds of dollars.
Provide Accurate Information
To get an accurate quote, be prepared to provide detailed information about the tree(s) in question:
- Size and type of tree
- Location on your property
- Any potential hazards like power lines
- The type of cleanup you need (e.g., complete removal vs. leaving the stump)
Being upfront with all this information allows the company to give you a more accurate estimate, which can help you avoid surprises later on.
Beware of Lowball Offers
If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Extremely low bids could indicate the company is cutting corners, such as by lacking insurance or proper equipment. Always check that the company is licensed (not all localities require a license), insured, and has a good reputation, even if their quote is higher.
Negotiating Tactics
Once you’ve received a few quotes, it’s time to start negotiating. Here are some effective tactics to help you get a better deal:
Be Polite and Respectful
Remember, you’re building a relationship with the company. Rudeness or aggressive bargaining can backfire. Instead, approach the conversation with respect and professionalism—this will make the company more willing to work with you.
Leverage Multiple Quotes
Let the companies know you’ve received other bids, and that you’re looking for the best deal. This simple tactic can encourage companies to lower their price or offer a better deal to stay competitive.
Ask About Discounts
Don’t be shy about asking for discounts. Many tree removal companies offer discounts for:
- Removing multiple trees
- Scheduling in the off-season (typically winter)
- Being a senior citizen or veteran
Some companies also offer discounts if you’re willing to pay in cash, but make sure to get this in writing.
Be Willing to Compromise
While you might not get everything you want, there’s usually room for negotiation. For example, you could negotiate for the company to remove the tree but leave the stump, which you can handle later. Or you could manage the cleanup yourself to lower the cost.
Ways to Save Money
Beyond negotiating the initial quote, there are additional ways you can save on tree removal:
Handle Some Tasks Yourself
If you’re comfortable taking on a bit of the work yourself, this can cut down costs significantly:
- Cleanup: Removing branches and debris yourself can save money, as cleanup often adds a significant amount to the bill.
- Stump Removal: You can decide to leave the stump for now and remove or grind it later, either DIY or hiring someone separately.
- Keeping the Wood: If you have a fireplace, you could save the wood for firewood instead of paying for the company to haul it away.
Timing Is Everything
Tree removal companies are usually busier in spring and summer, meaning prices are higher during those times. If possible, wait until the off-season (typically winter) to schedule your tree removal. During the off-season, companies are often more willing to offer discounts to attract customers. For example, Reddit users have reported discounts of 20% to 50% for tree removal scheduled in winter.
Explore Free or Subsidized Removal
In some cases, your local utility company or government may offer free or subsidized tree removal services if the tree poses a hazard to power lines or public property. It’s worth checking with them before you pay out of pocket for the entire service.
- Mistakes to Avoid
When negotiating and planning tree removal, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid to protect yourself and ensure you’re getting the best deal:
Hiring an Uninsured Company
Always check the tree company you hire is insured and bonded. If they’re not, you could be liable for any damage or injuries that occur during the removal.
Not Getting a Written Contract
Before any work begins, get everything in writing. This includes a scope of work, the price, and the payment terms. Without a written contract, you may find yourself facing unexpected charges later on.
Falling for Scams
Beware of companies that pressure you to sign a contract immediately or ask for a large upfront payment. Reputable companies won’t rush you into making decisions, and they’ll have fair payment terms.
- Negotiating Tree Removal Costs Based on the Season
You can often get a better deal by timing your tree removal during the off-season, typically in winter. Here’s why:
- Off-Season Discounts: During slower months, tree removal companies may offer lower prices to attract business. Waiting until winter can save you 20% to 50%, depending on the company.
- Plan Early: Book early in the winter, before snow and ice make the removal more dangerous (and costly).
On the other hand, if the tree removal is an emergency (e.g., after a storm), you may not be able to wait for the off-season, and emergency removals tend to be more expensive due to the urgency and specialized equipment required.