How much does tree removal cost?
With tree removal, it’s unrealistic to have a standard price, because there are so many factors at play. This is why it’s important to contact a reputable tree service company to have a licensed arborist come out to conduct a tree assessment and determine a price based on the tree’s physical structure and the surrounding area.
Below are average prices for removing a tree based on its size, under ideal circumstances.
Geographic Location
Residential Yard
Working in a tight residential yard may impact labor costs, especially when extra effort is needed due to limited equipment access and restricted space for branches to be rigged down, as when crews must avoid going into neighboring yards.
2. Rough Terrain
A challenging location, like a steep hill or a densely wooded area, may present logistical hurdles that require increased effort and safety precautions to transport equipment to and from the job site.
3. Urban Area
In urban areas, specialized equipment may be needed to maneuver through densely populated areas. And when crews work along a busy street, traffic control measures must be implemented, thus adding to the overall cost of the operation.
Physical Obstacles
Physical obstacles, above or below ground, may add complexity to a tree removal job if access is limited or dismantled pieces cannot be rigged down. For instance, are branches intertwined with power lines, where the utility company needs to be involved? Do fence panels need to be removed for equipment to pass through? Is there a buried propane tank or septic system that cannot be driven over? Is there a structure in the way, whether it’s a pool or patio, that can easily be damaged by falling debris?
Health and Condition
If a tree is in poor condition, it’s going to be a more time-consuming job because of the increased safety precautions needed.
When a trunk is leaning, cracked, or split, it can cause unpredictable fall patterns.
If a tree has an excessive amount of deadwood, these brittle branches can easily break during the removal process.
With diseased trees or those impacted by an insect infestation, there may be special handling and disposal requirements.
Size and Species
As the height of a tree increases, so does the level of associated risk—and cost. Larger trees, and those with complex branch structures, are going to be more labor-intensive to cut down, particularly species with a harder wood density (i.e., oak, maple, and beech trees). And with larger trees, crews may need to make multiple trips offsite to dispose of debris.
Machinery
Special machinery, like a crane, may be needed if a tree is in a hard-to-reach location, if it lacks structural integrity, or if it’s exceptionally tall or heavy. When a crane is used, the tree removal process becomes more expensive due to the need for a specially licensed operator and additional safety precautions.
Stump Grinding
When a tree is cut down, the stump and roots are normally left behind. However, you can pay a separate service fee to have the stump ground three to six inches below ground, so that you can plant grass over the old tree site, while also providing more esthetically pleasing results.
Seasonality
Seasons impact the demand for tree removal services, which can affect pricing. During slower periods, like the holidays and late winter, companies may offer discounts to attract business. On the other hand, during peak seasons like spring and fall when demand is high, companies typically do not offer discounts since they already have plenty of business, meaning customers will be paying standard pricing.
FAQ
How long does it take to remove a tree?
While every tree has unique circumstances that account for how long a removal job will take, below is an estimated range for tree removal based on size. Remember that removal times may vary based on specific factors related to a tree and its surrounding environment.
Small (under 20 feet): Less than 1 hour
Medium (40 feet) with narrow canopy: 1-2 hours
Medium (40 feet) with wide canopy: 2-4 hours
Large (70 feet) with narrow canopy: 3-6 hours
Large (70 feet) with wide canopy: 6-8 hours
Why is there a wide range in pricing between tree service companies?
Tree service companies can have a wide range in pricing due to a variety of factors. Because these businesses are involved in inherently dangerous work, insurance coverage is a necessity. However, companies differ in how comprehensive their policies are to protect workers, customers, and properties. So, a company that has a policy limit of $10 million versus $1 million may factor its higher premium costs into its overall pricing. Also, pay attention to vague statements, such as “prune tree” on a quote. These statements can be open to interpretation, and while one company may offer a cheaper price, they may cut corners and not provide the level of service a homeowner is expecting. The type of equipment that a company plans to use can also affect costs. For example, if a crane is needed, this machinery requires a specialized operator and logistical challenges to figure out, all of which increases the job cost. And consider what measures the company uses to protect a homeowner’s lawn. Some companies with higher prices may do so to reflect the added value of their customer service, such as using mats to drive over, and having a plan to fix any damage that may occur during the contracted work.
What time of year is tree removal cheapest?
During the winter season, particularly during the holidays, tree service companies often face a decrease in demand, which makes them more inclined to offer discounts to attract business.
How do you tell if a tree should be removed?
The first thing to do to help you determine if a tree should be removed is to consult with a licensed arborist. But, as a homeowner, it’s important to stay vigilant and watch for potential hazards throughout the year. Fungal growths, wilting leaves, discoloration, and a lack of foliage production are all possible signs of disease. Excessive deadwood, cracks, and leaning trucks can point to structural instability. And activities such as land clearing, soil excavation, and heavy foot traffic or paving around the tree’s base, can also negatively affect the tree’s health and longevity.
Should trees close to a house be removed?
Any tree that is in striking distance of your house is a potential hazard. To better understand these hazards, first consult with a licensed arborist. While some trees on your property may have visible signs of structural weakness, other issues might not be as obvious, like extensive root systems that could lead to foundation issues. And while some trees may need to be entirely removed, other safety concerns may be addressed with pruning.
What are the benefits of hiring a tree service company?
A professional tree service company helps to ensure your job is conducted safely to reduce risks. Having a licensed arborist first come out to your property to conduct a tree assessment will help you understand which trees on your property pose hazards so you can make an informed decision on what tree work needs to be done. When a tree crew comes out, these professionals follow industry standards and use specialized equipment—bucket trucks, winches, and grapples—to properly execute removals with minimal disruption to the surrounding environment and infrastructure. Reputable companies also carry insurance to protect the workers, the homeowner, and their property.
Is it safe to cut down your own tree?
Tree removal can be a dangerous activity if it is not done by professionals with the proper training and equipment. To ensure the safety of you and your property, first consult with a licensed arborist. They’ll conduct a health assessment of the tree in question and identify any structural issues and environmental factors that need to be accounted for. When tree technicians come to remove the tree, they’re using proper cut techniques and fall patterns and have the equipment and training needed to mitigate risks and handle unexpected situations.
What is the best time of year to cut down a tree?
In general, the best time of year to cut down a tree that is not posing an immediate danger, would be during the winter months. When the ground is frozen, there is less impact on your lawn from the heavy equipment used for the job. And if you only need to prune a tree, winter is still an ideal time, as bare limbs provide better visibility, allowing arborists to clearly identify areas in need of pruning. Pruning dormant trees also exposes them to less stress and can help reduce the spread of disease come springtime.
Does insurance cover tree removal?
Whether or not a tree removal job is covered by insurance depends on many factors, including the type of coverage a homeowner has. An example of a scenario where a homeowner may receive coverage would be when a healthy tree falls onto a covered structure during a storm, causing damage. Always consult with your insurance agent to be sure you understand the details of your policy.
Is it easier to cut down a dead tree?
While cutting down a dead tree might be perceived as being easier because it provides better visibility with its lack of foliage and its overall reduced weight, these trees come with their own set of challenges. Dead trees can have unpredictable fall patterns and the brittle limbs can unexpectedly break, all of which requires proper planning and precautions.
