10 best tree removal companies in Salem, Massachusetts

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 important 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 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 experts are well-versed in the proper cutting techniques and use specialized machinery to remove trees in compliance with local regulations. By choosing a reputable tree removal company in Salem, you can be assured that the job will be completed safely and properly.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Salem

Look for tree removal companies in Salem 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 most advisable step. The number of decayed trees in Salem is marginally high compared to other parts of the country. It's wise to get advice from a professional tree removal contractor if you observe any of these indicators:

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

If you see raised dirt near the base of the tree trunk, or if the tree is visibly beginning to lean, it's in danger of falling. If you see either of these signs, contact a professional tree removal team right away to review the damage and remove the tree before it causes harm.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees, sometimes called danger trees, have structural defects that cannot be fixed, increasing the chance they will fall. Falling trees can pose a serious threat to vehicles, people, pets and property. Signs of structural defects include rotten wood, dead branches, large cracks, loose bark 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 professionals may offer a range of other services. Besides their main focus removing trees, some contractors can help with the following additional services:

• Stump removal: After the team finishes removing your tree, only the stump will be left. You can choose to grind down the stump so it will more easily 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.
• Debris removal: Debris like logs, branches and leaves is often left behind after tree removal. Some companies can use dump trucks or flatbeds to haul debris away.
• Wood chipping: A tree removal professional can use a wood chipper to shred the trunk and branches following the tree's removal. Afterward, you can use the chips in your garden to enhance plant growth.
• Landscaping services: Some tree removal professionals also offer landscaping services. When working with one of these companies, you could plant a new tree or level the area where the stump was located.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Salem

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

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

Arborists are scientific experts that help you care for your trees. They may recommend health restoration services for your tree or removal if a tree has a high fall risk. Arborists can also offer valuable insights on pruning, moving and planting trees to help them grow properly and last for years. Massachusetts 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 companies should have an extensive insurance policy, including workers compensation, business liability and general liability. These policies help protect you, your property and the company’s workers in the event of an accident. County and city governments often set their own tree removal licensing regulations. A contractor in Salem doesn't need a state license if tree removal is the only service they offer. We recommend contacting Salem building officials and your county to ensure a prospective contractor is properly licensed.

Request a tree risk assessment

A tree risk assessment (TRA) can help you decide if removing a potentially dangerous tree is the best decision. After you call for a TRA, an arborist will assess your tree's fall risk and what damage could result from a fall. The arborist will first visually assess the tree from a distance to look for obvious signs of damage. They will then walk around the tree to inspect its crown, roots and trunk. Some arborists use specialized equipment to study the tree's insides.

Get a free estimate

Many tree removal companies offer free estimates and consultations. Get estimates from at least two companies to compare prices and recommendations.

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.