Why we wrote this: The tree service industry has a reputation problem — and some of it is deserved. We're writing this to help you make a smarter hiring decision, even if it means you hire someone else.
The 5 Most Common Tree Service Problems
1. No-shows and ghosting after the estimate
You call, they come out, give you an estimate, and then... nothing. Calls go unanswered. They never schedule the job. This is unfortunately common in the tree service industry. Fix: Get a written estimate with a name and phone number. If they won't return calls before the job, they won't return them if something goes wrong during it.
2. Vague or surprise pricing
You get a quote for $500, then at the end of the job it's $900 because of "extra work." Some companies deliberately underbid to win the job, then add charges after. Fix: Get a detailed written estimate that specifies exactly what's included. At B&D Tree, the price you're quoted is the price you pay — period.
3. Uninsured or underinsured crews
This is the big one. An uninsured crew damages your fence, your roof, or injures someone on your property — and you're the one paying for it. Homeowner's insurance may not cover damage caused by a contractor you hired. Fix: Ask for proof of insurance before work starts. Any legitimate tree service will have it and show it to you.
4. Sloppy or incomplete cleanup
They remove the tree but leave logs, branches, sawdust, and chips all over your yard. Sometimes they haul away the wood to sell as firewood without asking. Fix: Confirm cleanup and haul-away are explicitly included in the quote. At B&D, we don't leave until your yard is clean.
5. Topping trees (damaging practice)
Topping — cutting the main trunk or major branches back to stubs — is a harmful and largely discredited practice that weakens trees long-term. Some companies do it because it's fast. Fix: If a crew recommends topping your tree, that's a red flag. Ask about crown reduction or selective pruning instead.
Red Flags to Watch For
Who B&D Tree Is NOT For
We'll be honest: we're not the right fit for everyone.
- If you need the absolute cheapest option and aren't concerned about insurance
- If you're looking for a same-day crew with no estimate (we don't work that way)
- If you want a quick band-aid on a tree that really needs removal — we'll be upfront with you even if that's not what you want to hear
How to Protect Yourself
- Get a written estimate before work starts
- Ask for proof of liability insurance
- Check Google reviews from multiple sources
- Never pay the full amount upfront
- Get at least two quotes on large jobs