10 best tree removal companies in Kearny, New Jersey

While healthy trees improve your home's curb appeal and give your yard cooling 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 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.

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 injury or property damage.

Tree removal professionals understand the proper cutting techniques and utilize specialized tools to remove trees following local ordinances and permit requirements. Choosing a reputable tree removal company in Kearny gives you confidence that the job will be completed safely and to the highest standards.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Kearny

Look for tree removal companies in Kearny 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?

You should trim or remove a tree if it’s showing signs of severe damage or decay, or if it’s growing too close to your home. The number of decayed trees in Kearny is above average compared to other parts of the country. Seek advice from a tree removal professional if you notice any of the following signs:

The tree is dropping an unusual amount of branches, seeds, needles, sap or leaves. The tree has mold, pests or diseases weakening its structure. The tree's trunk or branches are cracked and won't heal. The tree or its branches are dangerously close to your home, garage or shed. 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 is severely burned or visibly dead.

If you notice raised dirt close to the base of the tree trunk, or if the tree is visibly beginning to lean, it's in danger of falling. Contact a reputable tree removal company as soon as you can if you notice either of these signs, and have the tree professionally assessed.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees, sometimes referred to as danger trees, have structural defects which are beyond repair, increasing the likelihood they will fall. A falling tree poses a significant risk to pets, people, property and vehicles. Signs of structural defects include loose bark, dead branches, rotten wood, large cracks and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you have a hazard tree in your yard, have it removed right away.

What other tree services might you need?

Apart from cutting down trees, some tree removal companies offer a range of additional services, including these:

• Debris removal: Tree removal usually leaves behind large debris such as logs, leaves and branches. A professional can use a dump truck or flatbed to haul away debris.
• Wood chipping: A tree removal expert can use a wood chipper to shred the trunk and branches after the tree has been removed. Afterward, you can use the chips in your garden to enhance plant growth.
• 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 remove the stump altogether, which guarantees the tree won't grow back.
• Landscaping services: Tree removal contractors sometimes offer landscaping services. They can assist in covering holes left over from stump removal or plant a new tree where your old one stood.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Kearny

To select the right 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 for optimal growth and well-being. New Jersey doesn't have arborist licensing rules, 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 knowledge, experience and skills to remove your tree.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

When hiring a tree removal company, ensure it carries comprehensive insurance coverage, including general liability, workers compensation and business liability. This coverage safeguards you, your property and the company's employees if an accident occurs during the job. In New Jersey, companies that provide tree care must be registered with the NJ Board of Tree Experts (NJBTE), and must employ at least one full time Licensed Tree Expert or Licensed Tree Care Operator. Check to see whether potential tree removal service providers are listed on the NJBTE business directory.

Request a tree risk assessment

A tree risk assessment (TRA) can help you decide if removing a potentially dangerous tree is the right step to take. During a TRA appointment, an arborist will assess the chance the tree could fall and what damage could ensue. They'll begin by looking at the tree from afar for clear damage indicators. Next, they'll circle the tree up close, inspecting its crown, roots and trunk. Some arborists use specialized equipment to analyze the tree's interior.

Get a free estimate

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

Read reviews from homeowners

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