Has a walk-up “tree guy” told you that your tree is unsafe? A tree company that is hard up for work often resorts to “the fear factor” to land a quick job. They want to scare you into paying for tree work that may not be needed.

Don’t fall for scare tactics! When someone approaches you with words like “risky,” “dangerous,” or “unstable,” and tells you that your tree needs pruning or should be taken down immediately, be skeptical! Ask for the evidence. Get a second opinion from a Certified Arborist. This could save your wallet and your tree.

Another way to protect yourself from an unscrupulous tree service is by learning how to look for signs of problems in your trees. Our article, “Reading a Tree for Risks and Hazards” gives you the information you need.