Tree Removal: Risks, Tips and Everything you need to know

Removing a tree can be a tricky process that requires the assistance of professional Tree surgeons to ensure your safety and prevent any damage to your property. In this blog post, Hertfordshire Trees discusses the risks associated with tree removal, tips to consider before removing a tree, and everything else you need to know about the process. 

Tree Removal: Ultimate guide for Beginners

A Homeowner's guide to tree removal

When is Tree Removal Necessary?

At Hertfordshire Trees, we understand that knowing when removing a tree is challenging. However, there are a lot of signs that can help you determine whether its time to call a tree surgeon:

Damaged trees

If your tree is showing signs of being sick, such as no leaves, bare branches on one side of the tree, felling sticks, or fungus, it could be a sign your tree is dying or seriously damaged. In this case, it is best to have it removed. If you notice any of these signs, don't hesitate and contact professional tree surgeons before it falls and damages your property.

Overcrowded area

If you're looking to start a construction project where the tree is located or want to clear the space, you can request the assistance of a tree surgery company to help you remove the tree. However, confirm your council legalities under tree removals before proceeding.

Close to other structures

If a tree is close to your home or any other structure, Hertfordshire Trees recommends tree removal. This is because, with its growth, it can damage your surrounding properties.

(More: 3 Signs It's Time to Call a Tree Surgeon)

Check with the local council

Before proceeding with the tree removal process, make sure to check your local regulations. Some locations have many bureaucracies regarding removing trees for cosmetic reasons, even on private property. 

In some cases, you might need a permit to remove a tree. This situation happens especially when the tree is situated in an environmentally sensitive area. Not following this regulation and removing a tree without your council's permission can result in heavy fines. Not sure if you can legally remove a tree on your private property? No problem, at Hertfordshire Trees, our team of tree surgeons can do that research on your behalf. Just fill out our contact form and request a free, no-obligation quote.

The Risks of DIY Tree Removal

Thinking about saving some money and removing a tree yourself? Hertfordshire Trees always recommends leaving it to professionals. Even though you can find many tutorial videos, DYI tree removal comes with a range of risks, such as the following:

Lack of appropriate equipment

The first risk our team of tree surgeons identified is not having the proper equipment to remove trees safely. In the majority of cases, you'll likely need to access the tree at a high height. Therefore losing balance on a ladder could result in falls. There is more to think about when it comes to tree removal equipment, and not having the appropriate tools and protections can lead to serious accidents.

Unskilled Tree Cutting

Knowing the right angle to cut a tree is very important and is a skill you can't learn by watching tutorial videos. The wrong angle could cause the chainsaw to slip, and without proper qualifications and training, you could find yourself in a vulnerable situation to hurt yourself. Therefore, hiring a professional tree surgeon to remove trees is not a matter of time but of safety.

Unnecessary Removal

One risk of not hiring a professional is removing a perfectly healthy tree. Unless you're a certified tree surgeon, and even though there are several signs to look for, it's unlikely that you'll be able to accurately identify the health situation of a tree. At Hertfordshire Trees, our tree removal services start with a thorough inspection of the area and tree, ensuring all procedures are done safely and correctly. Visit our review page to see how we have helped recent customers with their tree surgery needs in Hertfordshire, Harpenden, St.Albans and other areas.

(More: The Risks of Taking a Tree Down Without a Tree Surgeon)

tree removal guide

Tree Removal FAQs

For property owners, taking down a tree can be a big decision that raises a lot of questions and worries. The following are some of the most common queries concerning tree removal in Hertfordshire.

Why do trees need to be removed?

Trees may need to be removed for several reasons, such as illness, unstable structures, creeping roots, proximity to structures or utility lines, or to provide room for landscaping or new construction.

Do I need permission to remove a tree?

In Hertfordshire, some trees might be covered by conservation areas or Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs), in which case removal would need approval from the local council. It's best to find out whether restrictions apply to your circumstance by consulting the planning department of the council or a licenced arborist.

Can I remove a tree myself?

Even while it could be alluring, it's usually not advised to remove trees on your own, especially if they are large or dangerous. Professional arborists possess the knowledge, tools, and safety procedures required to remove trees safely and with the least amount of damage to persons or property.

How much does tree removal cost?

The size, species, condition, and placement of the tree, as well as any other services needed, like trash removal or stump grinding, can all affect the price of tree removal. To evaluate costs and services, it's a good idea to get quotations from a few reliable tree care providers.

What happens to the tree after removal?

Following its removal, the tree could be recycled, turned into firewood, or chipped for mulch. Some tree care businesses provide alternatives for recycling or reusing tree detritus, like making wood chips for landscaping.

Are there any alternatives to tree removal?

Sometimes problems can be solved without removing the tree entirely by using techniques like pruning, cabling, or bracing. Whenever possible, seeking advice from a certified arborist can help establish the best course of action for tree preservation.

To speak with tree surgeons in Hertfordshire, St Albans, Harpenden, and the surrounding areas, call us on 07775 743861. 

Speak with an expert tree surgeon

For expert advice, please get in touch with our tree surgeons. We serve Hertfordshire, Harpenden, St.Albans, and other surrounding areas. Just get in touch by calling us on 0777 574 3861 or by sending us an email to hertfordshiretrees@outlook.comOur team of tree surgeons will provide you with the best solutions and tips to improve your outdoor looks.