10 best tree removal companies in Indianapolis, Indiana

While healthy trees improve your home's curb appeal and give your yard refreshing shade, unhealthy trees pose significant risks for your property. If a tree is diseased, decaying or threatening your home's architecture, you may need to remove it. Tree removal is also important for mitigating fire risk, as dead trees are more flammable than live ones. To ensure your hazardous tree gets removed safely, turn to licensed professionals with the right equipment and experience.

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

Tree removal experts are well-versed in the proper cutting techniques and utilize specialized tools to remove trees following local regulations. When you work with a reputable tree removal company in Indianapolis, you can trust that the job will be completed safely and to a high standard.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Indianapolis

Look for tree removal companies in Indianapolis 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?

Consider removing a tree if you observe severe damage or decay, or if its roots or offshoots are encroaching on your house. The number of decayed trees in Indianapolis is remarkably high compared to other parts of the country. Contact a tree removal specialist if you notice any of the following signs:

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

If you spot raised dirt around the base of the trunk, or if the tree is beginning to lean, it's more likely to fall. Contact a trusted tree removal provider right away if you see either of these signs, and have the tree professionally assessed.

What is a hazard tree?

When a tree has irreparable structural defects that put it at significant risk of falling, it becomes a hazard tree, sometimes called a danger tree. A falling tree could damage or injure people, pets, vehicles and property. Signs of structural defects include loose bark, rotten wood, dead branches, large cracks and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you have a hazard tree on your property, don't wait to get it taken down as soon as possible.

What other tree services might you need?

Tree removal contractors may offer a range of other services. Besides their main focus removing trees, some contractors can help with these other jobs:

• Debris removal: Debris like branches, leaves and logs is often left behind after tree removal. Some companies can use dump trucks or flatbeds to haul debris away.
• Wood chipping: A tree removal expert can use a wood chipper to chip the trunk and branches after the tree has been removed. Afterward, you can add the chips and mulch to your garden to enhance plant growth.
• Stump removal: After the team finishes removing your tree, only the stump will be left. You can choose to grind down the stump so the tree's remains 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 regrow.
• 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 Indianapolis

Follow these steps to make the best tree removal company decision for your needs.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

A licensed arborist can assess your tree's health and offer suitable solutions, such as restoring its health or safely removing it to mitigate fall risk. Arborists also provide guidance on moving, planting and pruning trees. Indiana doesn't have arborist licensing rules, 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 earn certification. ISA-certified arborists have the knowledge, skills and experience to remove your tree.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

Tree removal contractors should carry an extensive insurance policy, including business liability, workers compensation and general liability. These policies help protect you, your property and the company’s workers in the event of an accident. County and city governments often set their own tree removal licensing laws. A contractor in Indianapolis doesn't need a state license if tree removal is their only service. We recommend contacting the Indianapolis government and your county to ensure a prospective contractor is properly licensed.

Request a tree risk assessment

To determine if removing a tree is the best choice, have a tree risk assessment (TRA). After you call 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 identify obvious signs of damage. They will then circle around the tree to inspect its trunk, roots and crown. Some arborists use specialized equipment to study the tree's insides.

Get a free estimate

Most tree removal companies provide complimentary estimates and consultations. Collect quotes from at least two providers and compare rates to find the best value.

Read reviews from homeowners

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

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.