The cost of most professional tree services varies widely, based on many factors. The area where you live has a lot to do with how much tree companies charge for their work, but factors such as the size of the tree, its location, and the risk involved in the work to be done also affect the final price. You might be surprised to learn, though, that paying more doesn’t always result in a better outcome. So, how can a consumer tell what’s a reasonable price for tree removal? And how much can you expect your next tree removal project to cost you?
Always Get an Estimate
First, keep in mind that most tree service companies will provide you with a free estimate, and will answer all of your questions and explain their costs to you. So, there’s no need to worry or agonize about what it might cost you to have a tree removed – you can actually find out, before any work gets done.
Actually, Get Several
You know what’s better than a free estimate, with the costs and work clearly explained to you ahead of time? Several of them! Because there is such a wide range of costs and services available to you, and because not every company is going to have exactly the same approach, you might find that different companies give you vastly different estimates on the cost of your tree removal project. So, call a few companies, get a few estimates, and shop around. More expensive isn’t necessarily better, but make sure you understand what the estimates include, so that you’re comparing “apples to apples”.
Do Your Homework
Either before you call for free estimates, or after you have them in hand, do your research on the companies you’re looking at. Check their online reviews, look up their rating with the Better Business Bureau, look at their references. It’s even better if you can use a company that comes with a personal recommendation from someone that you know – that’s often the best way to find a trusted, local resource.
What Will Affect the Price I Pay?
Many factors impact the final cost. The most typical are the size of the tree, its location, and any risk involved. A bigger tree will generally cost more to remove than a smaller one. One that requires the tree company to work around fencing, gardens, or parts of your home will generally cost more than one sitting in the middle of an open area. And one that requires any specialized knowledge or equipment in order to protect the tree service professionals will likely cost a bit more than a straightforward removal. This should all be explained and detailed in your free estimate – but if it isn’t, it’s definitely ok to ask about it.
Ok, but How Much Is This All Actually Going to Cost Me?
As we mentioned earlier, your geographic area will have a lot to do with how much you actually pay for tree removal. We’re local to Cincinnati, so we’re most able to give an idea of the cost of tree removal in Cincinnati, but we can also give a rough idea of what you might pay for this work elsewhere. Generally speaking, here in Cincinnati, tree removal will cost between $250-$1200, with an average of about $750. We know, that’s a big range (which is why we offer free estimates, so we can tell you exactly what we’ll charge to remove a tree in your specific situation). Nationwide, the range is even wider, with prices ranging from $400-$2000, with the average being around $1200.
But again (and we can’t emphasize this enough!) call your local tree service company to get a specific quote for the tree you actually need to have removed. It won’t take long, and you’ll feel much more confident about having the work done when you understand what you’re paying for.
