10 best tree removal companies in Lancaster, California

Healthy trees add to your home's curb appeal and provide a shady retreat in your yard. Unhealthy trees, however, can threaten your property. Removing a tree may be necessary if it is decaying, diseased or threatening your home's architecture. Tree removal is especially important in Lancaster due to the area's high wildfire risk. Licensed tree removal professionals in Lancaster 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, performing this task yourself increases the potential for physical harm and property damage.

Tree removal specialists are well-versed in the proper cutting techniques and employ specialized tools to remove trees following local ordinances. By choosing a reputable tree removal company in Lancaster, you can have peace of mind that the job will be completed safely and properly.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Lancaster

Look for tree removal companies in Lancaster 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 have gotten too close to your home, removal is often the best course of action. The number of decayed trees in Lancaster is below average compared to other parts of the country. If you see any of the following signs, contact a tree removal specialist.

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

If you observe raised dirt around the base of the tree trunk, or if the tree is starting to lean, it's at risk of falling. Contact a tree removal professional immediately to examine the tree and safely remove it if necessary.

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 pose a significant threat to pets, property, vehicles and people. A few signs that a tree has structural defects include large cracks, dead branches, loose bark, rotten wood and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you suspect your property has a hazard tree, get it removed as soon as possible.

What other tree services might you need?

Some tree removal companies provide an assortment of additional services apart from cutting down trees. These may include the following:

• Stump removal: Only the stump will remain following a tree removal. 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: Tree removal teams often use wood chippers to chip tree trunks and branches. If you choose, you can use the chips as mulch to improve your other plants' growth.
• Debris removal: Tree removal contractors can use flatbed or dump trucks to haul leftover branches, logs and leaves away from your home.
• Landscaping services: If you hire a tree removal company that offers landscaping services, the team could help level holes or install a fresh tree.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Lancaster

To choose the best tree removal company for your needs, consider these factors.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

A licensed arborist can assess your tree's health and offer appropriate solutions, such as restoring its health or safely removing it to mitigate fall risk. Arborists also offer guidance on moving, pruning and planting trees. 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 knowledge, experience and skills to help with your tree removal.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

Choose a tree removal company insured for workers compensation, general liability and business liability. A contractor's insurance policy acts as a safety net for you, your property and the company's team members in case something goes wrong while they work. 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 necessary, have a tree risk assessment (TRA). During the TRA, an arborist will evaluate a tree's likelihood of falling and the damage that could result. First, they'll inspect the tree from a distance, looking for obvious damage signs. Next, they'll inspect the trunk, roots and crown by circling around the tree. Some arborists use advanced tools to examine the tree's internal structure.

Get a free estimate

Many tree removal companies offer a free consultation and services estimate. Get estimates from multiple companies to compare prices and recommendations.

Read reviews from homeowners

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