10 best tree removal companies in Perry Hall, Maryland

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 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 professionals have the right equipment and experience to safely remove a tree from your property.

It's important to remove diseased trees with higher fall risk, as well as trees impacting your home's foundation and structural integrity. The task, however, is extremely dangerous if done improperly. Trying to do the job on your own could lead to property damage or personal injury.

Tree removal professionals know the proper cutting techniques and use specialized machinery to remove trees according to local regulations. By working with a reputable tree removal company in Perry Hall, you can be more confident that the job will get done safely and correctly.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Perry Hall

Look for tree removal companies in Perry Hall 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 are encroaching on your home, removal is often the optimal decision. The number of decayed trees in Perry Hall is average compared to other parts of the country. Consider getting an estimate from a tree removal expert if any of the following apply to your tree:

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

If you see raised dirt near the base of the tree trunk, or if the tree is visibly beginning to lean, it's at 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 evaluated.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees, sometimes called danger trees, have structural defects that cannot be fixed, increasing the likelihood they will fall. A falling tree poses a significant risk to people, pets, property and vehicles. Signs of a structural defect include loose bark, rotten wood, dead branches, large cracks and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you believe your property has a hazard tree, get it removed immediately.

What other tree services might you need?

Tree removal contractors may offer a range of other services. Along with their main focus removing trees, some companies can help with these other jobs:

• Wood chipping: A tree removal specialist can use a wood chipper to shred the trunk and branches following the tree's removal. Afterward, you can spread the mulch in your garden to enhance plant growth.
• Debris removal: After tree removal, there will be a lot of branches, leaves and logs to clear. A contractor can use flatbeds or dump trucks to remove debris faster.
• Stump removal: After the team finishes removing your tree, only the stump will remain. You can choose to grind down the stump so the tree's remains will decompose. A contractor can also remove the stump altogether in some cases. While this is more expensive than grinding, it guarantees the tree won't regrow.
• Landscaping services: Tree removal contractors sometimes offer landscaping services. They can level 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 Perry Hall

Follow these steps 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 restoring the tree's health or removal if a tree has a high fall risk. Arborists can also offer valuable insights on pruning, planting and moving trees for optimal growth and well-being. To work in Perry Hall, an arborist needs a Tree Expert license from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. They can also pursue a private certification from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Certification requires three years of experience and passage of an exam. Licensed and ISA Certified arborists have the knowledge, skills and experience to help with your tree removal.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

Choose a tree removal company with insurance covering business liability, general liability and workers compensation. A contractor's insurance policy is a safety net for you, your property and the company's team members in case something goes wrong while they work. All tree care professionals in Maryland must be Licensed Tree Experts (LTEs) through the Department of Natural Resources. To become an LTE, individuals must demonstrate appropriate education and experience and must carry appropriate insurance. Ensure that potential tree removal service providers are licensed before hiring.

Request a tree risk assessment

By getting a tree risk assessment (TRA), you'll receive professional advice on whether removing a tree is required. The assessment also outlines the risks of keeping a potentially hazardous tree. During a TRA appointment, an arborist will determine the chance the tree could fall and what damage could ensue. They'll begin by visually examining the tree from afar for clear damage indicators. Next, they'll circle the tree up close, inspecting its crown, trunk and roots. Some arborists use advanced equipment to analyze the tree's interior.

Get a free estimate

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

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask for tree removal company referrals from trusted neighbors, family and friends. Even if someone you trust refers you, 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.