10 best tree removal companies in Lancaster, Ohio

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 crucial for mitigating fire risk, as dead trees are more flammable than live ones. Licensed professionals have the right equipment and experience to remove a tree from your property safely.

It's crucial 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 personal injury and property damage.

Tree removal professionals are knowledgeable about the proper cutting techniques and use specialized equipment to remove trees following local ordinances. Choosing a reputable tree removal company in Lancaster ensures that the job will be executed safely and to the highest standards.

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?

If a tree on your property shows indications of severe damage or decay, or if it's growing too close to your house, you may need to have it removed. The number of decayed trees in Lancaster is average compared to other American cities. Consider seeking advice from a tree removal specialist if any of the following apply to your tree:

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

If you spot 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 contractor as soon as possible to assess the extent of the damage and safely remove the tree if necessary.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees, sometimes called danger trees, have irreparable structural defects that increase their risk of falling. A falling tree could seriously endanger people, pets, property and vehicles. Signs of structural defects include dead branches, loose bark, large cracks, rotten wood and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you have a hazard tree on your property, have it removed as soon as possible.

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:

• Debris removal: Debris like leaves, branches and logs is often left behind after tree removal. Some companies can use dump trucks or flatbeds to haul debris away.
• Wood chipping: As the team removes your tree limb by limb, they might use a wood chipper to shred the tree parts. Consider giving the tree a second life by using the chips as mulch for your garden.
• Stump removal: Once the removal crew finishes cutting down your tree, only the stump will be left. 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 regrow.
• Landscaping services: Some tree removal professionals provide landscaping services. By choosing one of these companies, you could add a fresh tree or cover the space where the stump was located.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Lancaster

Think about these factors to find the right tree removal company 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 planting, moving and pruning trees. Ohio does not require arborists to get a license, 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 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, including general liability, business liability and workers compensation. This coverage protects you, your property and the company's employees if an accident occurs during the job. City and county governments often set their own tree removal licensing regulations. No state license is required for contractors in Ohio that only remove trees. We recommend contacting Lancaster building officials and your county to ensure a prospective contractor complies with the requirements.

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 presents the risks of keeping a potentially hazardous tree. After you ask for a TRA, an arborist will evaluate your tree's fall risk and what damage could come from a fall. The arborist will first examine the tree from a distance to look for obvious signs of damage. They will then circle around the tree to inspect its roots, trunk and crown. Some arborists use particular equipment to study the tree's insides.

Get a free estimate

Most tree removal companies provide complimentary quotes and consultations. Collect quotes from several 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 if someone you trust refers you, take the time to read online reviews on BBB, Google Reviews 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.