10 best tree removal companies in Lafayette, California

While healthy trees elevate your home's curb appeal and give your yard cooling shade, unhealthy trees pose significant risks for your property. If a tree is diseased, decaying or threatening your home's architecture, it may be necessary to remove it. Tree removal is especially important in Lafayette 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.

Removing diseased trees and other trees with high fall risk is vital for your property's safety. However, trying to tackle the project yourself could lead to serious injury and expensive property damage.

Tree removal experts know the proper cutting techniques and use specialized tools to remove trees according to local ordinances. By working with a reputable tree removal company in Lafayette, you can be more confident that the job will get done safely and properly.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Lafayette

Look for tree removal companies in Lafayette 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 notice severe damage or decay, or if its roots or offshoots are growing too close to your house. The number of decayed trees in Lafayette is below average compared to other small towns. Seek advice from a tree removal expert if you notice any of the following signs:

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

If you notice raised dirt around the base of the tree trunk, or if the tree is beginning to lean, it's more likely to fall. Contact a trusted tree removal provider as soon as you can if you notice either of these signs, and have the tree professionally examined.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees, also known as danger trees, contain structural defects beyond repair, making them more likely to fall. A falling tree could seriously endanger property, vehicles, pets and people. Signs of structural defects include loose bark, large cracks, rotten wood, dead branches and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you have a hazard tree on your property, get it removed without delay.

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: Only the stump will remain once a tree removal job is complete. A professional might recommend removing the stump altogether based on the circumstances. They may also grind the stump so the tree's remnants decompose more quickly. Stump removal is more expensive than grinding, but it guarantees that the tree won't grow back.
• 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 spread the mulch in your garden to enhance plant growth.
• Debris removal: Debris like branches, logs and leaves is often left behind after tree removal. Some companies can use dump trucks or flatbeds to haul debris away.
• Landscaping services: If you hire a tree removal company that provides landscaping services, the team could help level holes or add a healthy tree.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Lafayette

Use these considerations to make the best tree removal company decision 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, moving and pruning trees to help them grow properly and last for years. California 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 obtain the certification. 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 coverage, including workers compensation, business liability and general liability. This coverage protects you, your property and the company's employees if an accident occurs during the job. 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

To determine if removing a tree is the right choice, get a professional tree risk assessment (TRA). 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 evaluate the tree's interior.

Get a free estimate

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

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 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.