How to Choose a Tree Removal Company

Why It Matters

Tree removal is dangerous, specialised work. Hiring an unqualified operator can result in property damage, personal injury, illegal tree removal, and void your insurance coverage. Taking the time to choose the right company protects you, your property, and your wallet.

Essential Qualifications

In Australia, the minimum qualification for hands-on tree work is:

Certificate III in Arboriculture (AQF Level 3) — This is the baseline for climbing, pruning, and removal work. Every crew member working at height should hold this qualification.
Diploma of Arboriculture (AQF Level 5) — Required for consulting arborists who write arborist reports, conduct tree risk assessments, and provide expert advice.

Also look for:

Membership of Arboriculture Australia (the national industry body)
Current Working at Heights certification
Chainsaw operation tickets (relevant units of competency)
Traffic management qualifications (if work is near roads)

Insurance Requirements

This is non-negotiable. Before hiring any tree removal company, verify they carry:

Public liability insurance — Minimum $10 million (ideally $20 million). This covers damage to your property, neighbouring properties, fences, powerlines, vehicles, and third-party injury.
Workers' compensation insurance — Covers all crew members for workplace injury. If a worker is injured on your property without workers' comp, you could be liable.

Always ask for a certificate of currency (not just a policy number) and verify it is current. A reputable company will provide this without hesitation.

What to Ask Before Hiring

Can you provide proof of qualifications and insurance?
Will you visit the site before providing a quote?
Does the quote include stump grinding, clean-up, and green waste removal?
Do I need a council permit, and will you handle the application?
What is your timeline for completing the work?
Do you have references or reviews from recent customers?
What happens if there is accidental damage during the work?
Are there any additional costs not included in the quote?

Red Flags to Watch For

No insurance or unwilling to provide proof — Walk away immediately.
No qualifications — “I've been doing this for 20 years” is not a qualification.
Door-knocking or cold-calling — Legitimate arborists do not solicit work door-to-door.
Cash-only payment — Suggests they may not be registered or insured.
No written quote — Verbal quotes leave no paper trail and invite disputes.
Significantly cheaper than competitors — If one quote is 50% less than others, ask why. They may be cutting corners on insurance, safety, or clean-up.
Unwilling to visit the site — A phone quote for tree removal is almost always inaccurate.
No ABN or business registration — Check the ABN lookup at abr.business.gov.au.

Getting the Best Quotes

Get at least 3 quotes from different companies.
Ensure every quote is in writing and itemises inclusions (removal, stump grinding, green waste, clean-up).
Compare like-for-like. A cheaper quote that excludes stump removal is not actually cheaper.
Check Google reviews and ask for references from recent jobs.
Use our free quote matching service to connect with pre-vetted, qualified arborists in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should a tree remover have?

At minimum, a tree removal operator should hold a Certificate III in Arboriculture (AQF Level 3). For consulting work and arborist reports, look for a Diploma of Arboriculture (AQF Level 5). Membership of Arboriculture Australia is also a strong indicator of professionalism.

How much public liability insurance should a tree remover have?

We recommend choosing a tree removal company with a minimum of $10 million in public liability insurance. This covers damage to your property, neighbouring properties, and any injuries that may occur during the work. Always ask for a certificate of currency.

How many quotes should I get for tree removal?

We recommend getting at least 3 written quotes from different companies. This gives you a good range of pricing and allows you to compare services, inclusions, and professionalism. Be wary of quotes that are significantly cheaper than the rest.

What are red flags when hiring a tree remover?

Red flags include: no insurance or unwilling to provide proof, no qualifications, door-knocking or cold-calling, cash-only payment, no written quote, unwilling to visit the site before quoting, and no ABN or business registration.

Should the tree removal company handle council permits?

A reputable company should be able to advise you on whether a council permit is required and either handle the application process for you or guide you through it. If they tell you no permit is needed without checking, that is a red flag.