There are a variety of things to consider when selecting an arborist, which include:

In Maine it is required by law that any individuals who advertise, solicit, contract, or in any any way engage for compensation in the business of an arborist, or make representation as being able to do so, must be licensed by the State of Maine.

Membership in professional organizations such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA), or the Maine Arborist Association (MAA) demonstrates a willingness on the part of the arborist to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and information.

Check in the phone directory yellow pages for those arborists who advertise as ISA Certified Arborists or display the official logo of the ISA Certified Arborist. (Certified arborists are experienced professionals who have passed an extensive examination covering all aspects of tree care).

Ask for proof of insurance and then phone the insurance company if you are not satisfied. A reputable arborist will have personal and property damage insurance, as well as workers compensation insurance. Just before work ensues, contact the insurance carrier to make sure the policy is still in effect. In Maine, arborists are required to have $150,000 in general liability insurance and $300,000 in general aggregate. Many homeowners have had to pay out large amounts of money for damages caused by uninsured individuals claiming to be tree experts. You could be held responsible for damages and injuries that occur as a result of the job.

Ask the arborist what services they provide. They may not provide the service that you are interested in.

Ask for references to find out where the company has done work similar to the work you are requesting. Don't hesitate to check references or visit other worksites where the company or individual has done tree work. Remember, tree care is a substantial, long-lasting investment; you would not buy a car without a test drive!

Unless you know and are comfortable with the arborist, get more than one estimate in writing. Ask the arborist if they provide free estimates. You may have to pay for the estimates, and it will take more time, but it will be worth the investment.

Be wary of individuals who go door-to-door and offer bargains for performing tree work. Reputable companies are too occupied to solicit work in this manner. Improper tree care can take many years to correct itself. Are you willing to take that risk with your valuable investment?

Good arborists will only perform accepted practices. For example, practices such as topping a tree, removing an excessive amount of wood, using climbing spikes on trees which are not being removed, and removing or disfiguring living trees without just cause, are unnecessary.

Don't always accept the low bid. You should examine the credentials and the written specification of the firms who submitted bids and determine the best combination of price, work to be done, skill and professionalism to protect your substantial investment.

Get it in writing. Most reputable arborists will have their client sign a contract. Be sure to read the contract carefully. Be sure you understand what the arborist plans to do and why and be sure the arborist understands what you want done and why. Do not pay up front or only provide a small down payment with a contract in hand.

Good companies submit proposals which include the following:

• What date the work will begin
• What will be done (exactly)
• What you need to do
• What cleanup will be done and to what degree
• What date the work will be finished
• The total dollar amount you will be charged

Good tree service companies have clean, modern equipment that is in good repair.

EHAP (Electrical Hazard Awareness Program) certification is a requirement if the tree company is working near energized wires. If so, ask to see the certification.

Never pay in advance, good companies will bill you.

Don't Be Afraid To Ask Questions Such As:

• When will the work be started and completed?
• Who will be responsible for clean up?
• Is this the total price including sales tax?
• If I would like more work done, what is your hourly rate?