10 best tree removal companies in Dover, Delaware

Healthy trees can increase your home's curb appeal and bring shade to your yard, but unhealthy trees pose risks to your property. You may need to remove a tree if it's decaying, diseased or threatening your home's architecture. Tree removal is also essential for mitigating fire risk, as dead trees are more flammable than live ones. Licensed professionals have the proper equipment and experience to remove a tree from your property safely.

You should remove trees that are diseased, have a high fall risk, or which are compromising your foundation. However, attempting to do it yourself could result in injury or property damage.

Tree removal professionals know the proper cutting techniques and use specialized tools to remove trees according to local regulations. By working with a reputable tree removal company in Dover, you can have more confidence that the job will get done safely and correctly.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Dover

Look for tree removal companies in Dover 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 are encroaching on your home, removal is often the most advisable step. The number of decayed trees in Dover is average compared to other parts of the country. It's wise to get advice from a professional tree removal contractor if you spot any of these indicators:

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

If you see raised dirt close to the base of the tree trunk, or if the tree is visibly beginning to lean, it's at a high risk of falling. If you see either of these signs, contact a qualified tree removal expert right away to review the damage and safely remove the tree before it causes harm.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees, also known as danger trees, contain structural defects beyond repair, making them more likely to fall. Falling trees can cause extensive property damage and seriously injure people and pets. Signs of structural defects include dead branches, loose bark, rotten wood, large cracks and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you have a hazard tree in your yard, remove it right away.

What other tree services might you need?

Tree removal contractors may offer a range of other services. In addition to their main focus removing trees, some companies can help with the following additional services:

• Stump removal: Once the removal crew finishes cutting down your tree, only the stump will remain. You can grind the stump down so it will more easily decompose. A more expensive option is to completely remove the stump, which guarantees the tree won't grow back.
• Wood chipping: A tree removal expert can use a wood chipper to chip the trunk and branches following the tree's removal. Afterward, you can add the chips and mulch to your garden to enhance plant growth.
• Debris removal: Tree removal contractors can use flatbed or dump trucks to haul leftover branches, leaves and logs away from your home.
• Landscaping services: Tree removal contractors sometimes offer landscaping services. They can assist in covering 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 Dover

To find the best tree removal company for your needs, keep these factors in mind.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

Arborists are scientific experts that help you care for your trees. They may recommend restoring the tree's health or removal if a tree has a high fall risk. Arborists can also offer valuable insights on moving, planting and pruning trees to help them grow properly and last for years. Arborists in Dover must be licensed with the Delaware Department of Agriculture. They can also pursue a private certification from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Certification requires three years of experience and passage of an exam. Licensed and ISA Certified arborists have the experience, skills 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, workers compensation and general liability. This coverage can financially protect you if an accident happens. Tree removal contractors must register with the Delaware Department of Labor. Ask potential tree removal professionals about registration before choosing a provider.

Request a tree risk assessment

By getting a tree risk assessment (TRA), you'll receive professional advice on whether removing a tree is necessary. The assessment also details the risks of keeping a potentially hazardous tree. To perform a TRA, an arborist starts by looking for clear signs of damage from a distance. Then, they'll circle around the tree, closely inspecting the crown, trunk and roots. Sometimes, arborists use specialized gear to study the tree's interior.

Get a free estimate

Most tree removal companies provide complimentary consultations and price quotes. Get estimates from several providers and compare rates to find the best value.

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask neighbors, family and friends for tree removal company referrals. Even with a personal recommendation it's, it's still important to verify a company's reputation by reading reviews on sites like Yelp, BBB and Google Reviews.

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.