10 best tree removal companies in Millbrae, California

Healthy trees contribute to your home's curb appeal and offer a shady retreat in your yard. Unhealthy trees, however, can threaten your property. Removing a tree may be necessary if it is diseased, decaying or threatening your home's architecture. Tree removal is also important for mitigating fire risk, as dead trees are more flammable than live ones. Licensed tree removal professionals in Millbrae can use their equipment and experience to help you safely remove a tree from your property.

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

Tree removal professionals have expertise in the proper cutting techniques and employ specialized tools to remove trees following local regulations. By partnering with a reputable tree removal company in Millbrae, you can be assured that the job will be completed safely and properly.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Millbrae

Look for tree removal companies in Millbrae 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 displaying evidence of severe damage or decay, or if it’s encroaching on your home. The number of decayed trees in Millbrae is noticeably low compared to other parts of the country. If you notice any of the following signs, contact a tree removal professional.

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

Trees that are leaning or have raised dirt encircling the tree trunk base are at a high risk of falling. Contact a trusted tree removal provider as soon as you can if you see either of these signs, and have the tree professionally examined.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees, sometimes called danger trees, have irreparable structural defects that make them more likely to fall. A falling tree could seriously endanger vehicles, pets, people and property. Rotten wood, loose bark, dead branches, large cracks and hollow cavities near the tree base are all indicators of structural defects. If you have a hazard tree on your property, remove it as soon as possible.

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:

• Wood chipping: A tree removal expert can use a wood chipper to chip the trunk and branches once the tree is cut down. Afterward, you can add the chips and mulch to your garden to enhance plant growth.
• Stump removal: Once the removal crew finishes cutting down your tree, only the stump will be left. You can grind the stump down so what's left of the tree can decompose. A more expensive option is to remove the stump altogether, which guarantees the tree won't regrow.
• Debris removal: After tree removal, there will be a lot of leaves, logs and branches to clear. A contractor can use flatbeds or dump trucks to remove debris faster.
• Landscaping services: Tree removal contractors sometimes offer landscaping services. They can assist in covering 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 Millbrae

Use these considerations to make the right tree removal company decision for your needs.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

An arborist is a scientific expert who can examine your tree's needs and advise you on the appropriate care. This can include rejuvenating its health or removing it if it's in danger of falling. Arborists also provide recommendations for transplanting, planting and pruning trees. California 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 get certified. ISA-certified arborists have the experience, knowledge and skills to help with your tree removal.

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. 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 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 walk around the tree up close, inspecting its roots, crown and trunk. Some arborists use specialized equipment to analyze the tree's interior.

Get a free estimate

Many tree removal companies offer free consultations and estimates. Get estimates from more than one company to compare prices and recommendations.

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask friends and family for tree removal company recommendations. While suggestions from loved ones are insightful, take time to read online reviews on BBB, Google Reviews and Yelp before making your choice.

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.