10 best tree removal companies in Ashland, California

Healthy trees add to your home's curb appeal and offer a shady retreat in your yard. Unhealthy trees, however, can compromise your property. Tree removal may be necessary if it is decaying, diseased or threatening your home's architecture. Tree removal also helps mitigate the risk of wildfires in Ashland. Licensed tree removal professionals in Ashland can use their equipment and experience to help you safely remove a tree from your property.

It's essential to remove diseased trees, trees with high fall risk and trees that are damaging your foundation. However, doing this task yourself increases the potential for injury and property damage.

When you hire a reputable tree removal company in Ashland, you'll have a skilled team to safely remove your tree with specialized cutting equipment and techniques in accordance with local ordinances and permit requirements.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Ashland

Look for tree removal companies in Ashland 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 exhibits signs of severe damage or decay, or if its roots are encroaching on your home, removal is often the best course of action. The number of decayed trees in Ashland is average compared to other small towns. Seek advice from a tree removal professional if you see any of the following signs:

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

If you see 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 immediately to evaluate the tree and safely remove it if necessary.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees, sometimes called danger trees, have irreparable structural defects that make them prone to falling. A falling tree could damage or injure pets, property, people and vehicles. Signs of a structural defect include rotten wood, loose bark, dead branches, large cracks and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you have a hazard tree on your property, get it removed as soon as you can.

What other tree services might you need?

Some tree removal contractors provide a variety of additional services in addition to removing trees. These may include the following:

• Debris removal: Tree removal contractors can use flatbed or dump trucks to haul leftover branches, logs and leaves away from your home.
• Wood chipping: As the team removes your tree limb by limb, they might use a wood chipper to further break the brush down. Consider giving the tree a second life by using the chips as mulch for your garden.
• Stump removal: After the team finishes removing your tree, only the stump will remain. You can choose to grind down the stump so it will more easily decompose. A contractor can also completely remove the stump in some cases. While this is more expensive than grinding, it guarantees the tree won't grow back.
• Landscaping services: Tree removal contractors sometimes offer landscaping services. They can level holes left over from stump removal or plant a healthy tree where your old one stood.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Ashland

Use these considerations to make the most informed tree removal company decision for your needs.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

An arborist is a scientific expert who can analyze your tree's requirements and advise you on the appropriate care. This can include rejuvenating its health or removing it if it's in danger of falling. Arborists also provide recommendations for planting, pruning and transplanting trees. California does not require arborists to be licensed, so we recommend looking for an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Arborists must have at least three years of experience and pass an exam to obtain the certification. ISA-certified arborists have the skills, knowledge and experience to remove your tree.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

Tree removal companies should carry an extensive insurance policy, including general liability, business liability and workers compensation. These policies help protect you, your property and the company’s workers in the event of an accident. 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

By getting a tree risk assessment (TRA), you'll get a professional opinion on whether removing a tree is necessary. The assessment also details the risks of keeping a potentially hazardous tree. After you request a TRA, an arborist will assess your tree's fall risk and what damage could come from a fall. The arborist will first visually assess the tree from a distance to look for obvious signs of damage. They will then walk around the tree to inspect its roots, trunk and crown. Some arborists use specific equipment to study the tree's insides.

Get a free estimate

Many tree removal companies offer free estimates and consultations. Get estimates from more than one company to compare prices and recommendations.

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask for tree removal company referrals from trusted neighbors, family and friends. Even if someone you trust refers you, take the time to read online reviews on BBB, Yelp 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.