"Arborist," "tree surgeon," "tree service," "tree guy." Homeowners hear all of them. Here's what the terms mean and how to pick the right help for your job.
What Is an Arborist?
An arborist focuses on the care of individual trees: health, structure, and safety. The best-known credential is ISA Certified Arborist, from the International Society of Arboriculture, which requires an exam and ongoing education. You can verify a certification number on the ISA website.
What Is a Tree Service?
A tree service is a company with the crew and equipment to do the physical work: tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, land clearing, and storm response. Some employ certified arborists, some don't.
Which Do You Need?
- Removing a tree, storm cleanup, stump grinding: an experienced, insured tree service.
- Routine pruning: a tree service that prunes to ANSI A300 standards.
- Diagnosing disease or saving a valuable tree: ask for an ISA Certified Arborist.
- A written tree risk report for a dispute or permit: a certified arborist, ideally with risk assessment qualification.
Questions to Ask Any Tree Crew
- Can I see your certificate of insurance (liability and workers' comp)?
- Will you call Diggers Hotline (811) before stump grinding?
- What pruning standards do you follow?
- Is cleanup and haul-away included in the price?
- Can I read your Google reviews?
Red Flags
- Door-to-door crews after a storm demanding cash up front
- No proof of insurance
- Recommending "topping" a healthy tree
- Using climbing spikes on a tree that's only being pruned
How Down Rite Works
We're a family-run, fully insured Milwaukee tree service with 20+ years of experience. We follow ANSI A300 pruning standards, call 811 before grinding, coordinate with WE Energies near lines, and clean up after every job. See what customers say, or request a free estimate.
