10 best tree removal companies in Alameda, California

While healthy trees improve your home's curb appeal and give your yard refreshing shade, unhealthy trees present potential hazards to your property. If a tree is diseased, decaying or threatening your home's architecture, you may need to remove it. Tree removal is especially important in Alameda due to the area's high wildfire risk. To ensure your hazardous tree gets removed safely, call on licensed professionals with the right equipment and experience.

You should prioritize removing trees that are diseased, have a high fall risk, or which are damaging your foundation. However, trying to do it yourself could lead to property damage or injury.

Tree removal professionals have expertise in the proper cutting techniques and employ specialized tools to remove trees in compliance with local ordinances and permit requirements. When you work with a reputable tree removal company in Alameda, you can have peace of mind that the job will be completed safely and to a high standard.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Alameda

Look for tree removal companies in Alameda with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB). Use the filters below to help you find the right company for your needs.

How do you know a tree needs to be removed?

When a tree shows signs of severe damage or decay, or if its roots have gotten too close to your home, removal is often the best course of action. The number of decayed trees in Alameda is average compared to other parts of the country. Seek advice from a tree removal specialist if you notice any of the following signs:

The tree has damage from heavy rain or thunderstorms. The tree or its offshoots are dangerously close to your home, garage or shed. The tree's branches or trunk are cracked and won't heal. The tree is severely burned or visibly dead. The tree has pests, diseases or mold weakening its structure. The tree is dropping far more sap, seeds, branches, leaves or needles than usual. The tree's roots are causing your home's foundation to lift or crack.

If you notice raised dirt near the base of the tree trunk, or if the tree is visibly beginning to lean, it's at risk of falling. Contact a tree removal contractor as soon as possible to evaluate the extent of the damage and take down the tree if necessary.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees, sometimes referred to as danger trees, have structural defects that cannot be fixed, increasing the likelihood they will fall. A falling tree could damage or injure property, people, pets and vehicles. Rotten wood, dead branches, large cracks, loose bark and hollow cavities near the tree base are all indicators of structural defects. If you suspect your property has a hazard tree, schedule a tree removal service immediately.

What other tree services might you need?

Tree removal companies offer a variety of services. In addition to removing trees, many companies offer the following:

• Stump removal: After the team finishes removing your tree, only the stump will be left. You can choose to grind down the stump so what's left of the tree will decompose. A contractor can also remove the stump altogether in some cases. While this is more expensive than grinding, it guarantees the tree won't grow back.
• Wood chipping: Tree removal specialists can use wood chippers to break down tree trunks and branches. You can keep the chips and spread them in your gardens as mulch.
• Debris removal: Debris like logs, branches and leaves is often left behind after tree removal. Some companies can use dump trucks or flatbeds to haul debris away.
• Landscaping services: Tree removal contractors sometimes offer landscaping services. They can level holes left over from stump removal or plant a fresh tree where your old one stood.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Alameda

Think about these factors to choose the best tree removal company for your needs.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

Arborists are expert consultants that help you care for your trees. They may recommend health restoration services for your tree or removal if a tree has a high fall risk. Arborists can also offer valuable insights on planting, pruning and moving trees for optimal growth and well-being. California does not require arborists to get a license, so we recommend looking for an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Arborists must have three years of field experience and pass an exam to get certified. ISA-certified arborists have the skills, experience and knowledge to help with your tree removal.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

When hiring a tree removal company, ensure it carries comprehensive insurance, including business liability, general liability and workers compensation. This coverage can financially protect you if an accident happens. In California, a tree removal professional must have a Tree Removal Contractor license through the Contractors State License Board. Ask potential tree removal service providers about their licensing before hiring them.

Request a tree risk assessment

A tree risk assessment (TRA) can help you determine if removing a potentially dangerous tree is the right step to take. After you ask for a TRA, an arborist will determine your tree's fall risk and what damage could result from a fall. The arborist will first look at the tree from a distance to search for obvious signs of damage. They will then circle around the tree to inspect its trunk, roots and crown. Some arborists use particular equipment to study the tree's insides.

Get a free estimate

Many tree removal companies offer free estimates and consultations. We recommend getting multiple estimates to compare prices and recommendations.

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask for tree removal company referrals from trusted family, friends and neighbors. Even when you get a referral, take the time to read online reviews on Yelp, BBB and Google Reviews to get a well-rounded perspective before you hire.

Our methodology for selecting tree removal companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.