10 best tree removal companies in Queens, New York

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

It's crucial to get rid of diseased trees with higher fall risk, as well as trees impacting your home's foundation and structural integrity. The task, however, is very dangerous if done improperly. Trying to do the job alone could result in personal injury or property damage.

When you hire a reputable tree removal company in Queens, you'll have a skilled team to safely remove your tree with specialized cutting equipment and techniques in accordance with the city's requirements.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Queens

Look for tree removal companies in Queens 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 Queens is relatively low compared to other parts of the country. If you observe any of the following signs, contact a tree removal expert.

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

If you see raised dirt near the tree trunk's base, or if the tree is visibly beginning to lean, it's at risk of falling. Contact a tree removal professional immediately to assess the tree and safely remove it if necessary.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees, also known as danger trees, have structural defects beyond repair, making them more likely to fall. Falling trees can pose a serious threat to property, pets, vehicles and people. Signs of structural defects include dead branches, loose bark, rotten wood, large cracks and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you have a hazard tree on your property, get it removed as soon as you can.

What other tree services might you need?

Tree removal experts may offer a range of other services. Along with their main focus removing trees, some companies can help with the following additional services:

• Wood chipping: Tree removal professionals can use wood chippers to break down tree trunks and branches. You can use the chips as mulch for your flower beds.
• Stump removal: After the team finishes removing your tree, only the stump will be left. 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 grow back.
• Debris removal: Tree removal contractors can use flatbed or dump trucks to haul leftover branches, leaves and logs away from your home.
• Landscaping services: Tree removal contractors sometimes offer landscaping services. They can help you fill holes left over from stump removal or plant a healthy tree where your old one stood.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Queens

Follow these steps to make the best tree removal company decision for your needs.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

An arborist is a scientific specialist who can analyze 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 planting, transplanting and pruning trees. New York does not require arborists to hold a license, 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 experience, skills and knowledge to remove your tree.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

When hiring a tree removal company, ensure it carries comprehensive insurance coverage, including business liability, general liability and workers compensation. This coverage safeguards you, your property and the company's employees if an accident occurs during the job. County and city governments often set their own tree removal licensing laws. No state license is required for contractors in New York that only remove trees. We recommend contacting the Queens building department 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 outlines the risks of keeping a potentially hazardous tree. During the TRA, an arborist will evaluate a tree's likelihood of falling and the damage that could result. First, they'll visually evaluate the tree from a distance, looking for obvious damage signs. Next, they'll inspect the crown, trunk and roots by circumnavigating 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 at least two companies to compare prices and recommendations.

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask friends, family and neighbors for suggestions on reputable tree removal services near you. It's also wise to check online reviews on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp and BBB.

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.