What this covers
Tree removal takes down a dead, diseased, damaged or badly placed tree without harming the house, fences, lines or neighboring trees. The crew first assesses the tree's lean, condition and what lies under it. Where there is open room, the tree may be felled in one piece; near buildings, a climber or a bucket truck takes it down in sections, lowering each piece on ropes and rigging. Trees near utility lines are handled by crews qualified for that work. The wood is chipped or cut into rounds, and the site raked clean.
When to call
- A tree that is dead, hollow or dropping large limbs.
- A tree split, uprooted or leaning after a storm.
- Roots lifting a foundation, driveway or walk, or a tree crowding the house.
- A tree in the way of an addition, a patio or new construction.
What to expect
- AssessThe arborist looks at the tree, its lean and condition, and what sits beneath it.
- Plan the dropThe crew chooses felling or sectional removal and sets up rigging and equipment.
- Take downThe tree is felled or lowered piece by piece into a cleared drop zone.
- ClearBranches are chipped, the trunk cut and hauled or stacked, and the yard raked.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
Is the stump removed too?
Not usually as part of removal. The stump is cut close to the ground, and stump grinding is a separate step that the company can schedule at the same time.
Does removing a tree need a permit?
Some places regulate removal of large or protected trees. Where the local rules require a permit, the company tells you and pulls it before work.
What happens near power lines?
Work close to utility lines is done by crews qualified for line clearance, and some cases need the utility to handle or de-energize the line first. The company coordinates that before the job starts.
Related: Stump grinding · Tree trimming · Storm damage repair · All landscaping and yard
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.