Private Tree Services
Choosing a Tree Care Professional
Since tree work is one of the most dangerous occupations and requires thorough knowledge of arboriculture, it is important to hire a trained, professional arborist for your tree care needs. A good arborist will utilize his/her knowledge and equipment properly to perform a job safely and properly.
Things to consider when hiring your arborist
Licensed in Waterloo
Make sure the tree care company that you hire is currently licensed in the City of Waterloo. All tree care companies must be licensed by the City of Waterloo in order to legally trim or remove trees in the City. Licensing is renewed yearly on April 1st, so be sure that they are currently licensed. Please check the list of tree care providers on this site to see if they are licensed
Proof of Insurance
Make sure the tree care company has proof of insurance. Don’t hesitate to contact their insurance carrier if you are not satisfied with the documents presented. The City of Waterloo requires tree care companies to have insurance covering personal damage of at least $300,000, property damage of at least $100,000, and worker’s compensation insurance. Many homeowners have had to pay out large amounts of money for damages caused by uninsured individuals claiming to be tree care professionals.
Professional Organizations Membership
Membership in professional organizations such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), the Iowa Arborist Association (IAA), the Tree Care Industry (TCIA), or the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) demonstrates a willingness on the part of the arborist to stay up-to date on the latest techniques and information.
ISA Certified
Check if the company employs ISA Certified Arborists. The International Society of Arboriculture can be used to check for certified arborists in your area. You can also see if the company displays the official logo of the ISA Certified Arborist on their yellow page add in the phone book. Certified arborists are experienced professionals who have passed an extensive examination covering all aspects of tree care.
Ask for References
Ask for references to find out where the company has done work similar to the work you are requesting. Don’t hesitate to check references or visit other worksites where the company or individual has done tree work. Remember, tree care is a substantial, long-lasting investment; you would not buy a car without a test drive!
Get Estimates
Don’t hesitate to get more than one estimate. This takes more time, and you may have to pay for some estimates, but it will be worth the investment.
Consider All Bids
Don’t always accept the low bid. You should examine the credentials and the written specifications of the companies that submitted bids. Determine the best combination of price, work to be done, reference research, and professionalism to invest in your tree care needs.
Accepted Practices
Good arborists only perform accepted practices. Practices such as topping a tree, using climbing spikes on trees that are not to be removed, and removing or disfiguring living trees without just cause are unnecessary.
Get it in writing
Most reputable arborists will have their clients sign a contract. Be sure to read the contract carefully. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, such as:
- When will the work be started and completed?
- Who will be responsible for cleanup?
- Will the stump be removed as part of the cost?
- Is this the total price?
- If I would like more to be done, what is your hourly rate?
Licensed Tree Services of Waterloo
Twin Oaks Tree Service
Waterloo, IA
(319) 296-9324
Owner: David Cochran
Expert Tree Company
Waterloo, IA
(319) 233-8589
Owner: Eddie Herbert
Planetary Tree Service
Evansdale, IA
(319) 234-2563
Owner: Drew Collins
Tri County Tree Pros
Shell Rock, IA
Owner: Scott Heise
Wright Tree Service, Inc.
Des Moines, IA
(800)882-1216
LT Tree Service, LLC
Waterloo, IA
(319) 464-1845
Owner: Louis Taylor
Simon Sez Powerhouse Inc.
Waverly, IA
(319) 242-7375
Owner: Andy Ott
Vogel’s Construction & Tree Removal
Waterloo, IA
(319) 327-0918
Owner: Quent Vogel
Hugo’s Tree Service
Waterloo, IA
(319) 404-5543
Owner: Hugo Linares
Fox Enterprises, LLC/Joe Fox
Waterloo, IA
(319) 883-2900
Owner: Joe Fox
G & L Lawn Rangers
Independence, IA
(319) 332-0404
Fowlkes Tree Service
Independence, IA
(319) 327-1199
Owner: Dustin Fowlkes
Levi’s Lawn Care
Waterloo, IA
(319) 404-0957
Owner: Levi Moore
Good Feller’s Tree Service
Janesville, IA
(507) 440-6209
Owner: Dan Skinner
TK Tree Service
Denver, IA
(319) 240-6346
Owner: Tanner Kroeze
Roger Poor
Waterloo, IA
(319) 233-0351
Owner: Roger Poor
Dostal Tree Service
Tracer, IA
(319) 478-2324
Owner: Jack Dostal
Planetary Investments
Waterloo, IA
(319) 961-1987
Owner: Andrew Showalter