Avoiding Scams: How to Vet a Tree Service in West New York

Understanding the West New York Tree Regulations

Prior to engaging any tree-service company, residents are required to know the local regulations. There are many specific ordinances related to tree removal and tree care within West New York. Municipal codes state that trees located on public streets or rights-of-way must obtain permits from the Building Department before removal for a $25 fee per tree. Typically, there are no permits required for removing trees on residential property unless they hang over public rights-of-way; however, a homeowner would need to obtain a Certificate of No Interest from the Town before the removal of a tree.

These ordinances were put in place to protect the urban canopy that creates such beautiful neighborhoods around Donnelly Memorial Park. Reputable tree-service companies will be aware of these regulations and assist homeowners through the permitting process. If a contractor does not acknowledge the necessity for permits or discourages you from obtaining permits, this is a red flag.

Red Flag Indicators for Engaging Tree Service Contractors

Solicitation Door-to-Door

Generally, legitimate tree-care companies do not engage in door-to-door solicitation of clients. It is recommended that you be very cautious of any contractor who appears uninvited at your home on Bergenline Avenue and states that they noticed “hazardous” conditions on your property. Many of these types of solicitations are based upon high-pressure sales tactics where the contractor tries to instill an urgent sense of danger to prompt the homeowner to hire the contractor quickly. Legitimate contractors develop a reputation through referrals and traditional business practices, rather than through aggressive marketing tactics.

Low Bids

While it is certainly beneficial to receive competitive bids, low bids are often indicative of poor workmanship that could result in property damage or incomplete work. Tree care is a unique industry that requires specialized equipment, experienced personnel, and adequate insurance coverage. Those who offer significantly lower bids may not possess the necessary licensure, insurance, or experience to properly complete the tree work safely.

Full Payment Before Performing Work

Reputable tree-service contractors will ask for little to no down payments and will usually request the remainder of the payment after the job is completed. In most cases, scam artists will demand full payment prior to performing the work and then fail to complete the work as promised. Scam artists frequently utilize this tactic in the neighborhoods surrounding the Palisades area.

Required Credentials to Verify

Licensing and Insurance

In addition to providing evidence of licensure for the type of work being performed by the tree-service contractor, contractors must also demonstrate that they carry the proper insurance for the type of work that will be done. A legitimate contractor should be able to show proof of business license, workers’ compensation insurance, and general liability insurance. In addition, the contractor should be able to provide copies of insurance certificates and allow you to contact the insurance company to verify the validity of the policies. At Tree Care Pros West New York, we are happy to provide this documentation to alleviate any anxiety you may have.

Certification by ISA

Those contractors who employ certified arborists through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) have demonstrated a level of proficiency in the art of tree care, proper safety protocol, and adherence to industry standards. While it is not mandatory for all employees of a tree-service company to hold ISA certification, having certified arborists employed by the company demonstrates a desire to adhere to professional standards.

Residency and Physical Location of the Contractor

Legitimate contractors have a physical location in your area, a local phone number, and are connected to your community. Be wary of those contractors who only provide a cell phone number and/or claim to be “temporarily working in the area”. Research the contractor through business directories, the Better Business Bureau, and multiple review sites.

Written Estimates

Always obtain written estimates from multiple contractors before making a decision. Legitimate written estimates will contain specific descriptions of the work to be performed, details of the equipment to be utilized, details of the cleanup to be performed, estimated duration of the project, and a breakdown of the total cost, which includes any required permit fees. Verbal estimates and/or illegible estimates on scraps of paper indicate unprofessional operations.

Debris Disposal and Restoration of Damaged Areas

When evaluating estimates for work to be performed on your properties near Anthony M. Defino Way or other residential areas, make sure the estimate includes plans for disposing of debris, protecting surrounding landscape features, and restoring any damaged areas. Legitimate companies will take pride in leaving your property in a better condition than when they started.

Thorough Research and Reference Checks

Reviews From Multiple Online Platforms

Do a thorough search of any potential contractor using multiple online platforms, including Google, Yelp, and specialized contractor review websites. Look for recurring themes in reviews, especially regarding professionalism, cleanup, and communication. Ask for local references from your neighbors in the areas around James J. Braddock Park. These references will be able to provide insight into the contractor’s work quality and reliability.

A Portfolio of Completed Projects

Legitimate tree-service contractors will have a portfolio of previous work. Ask to see photographs of previous jobs, especially of complex removals or large tree projects, which are commonly encountered in older neighborhoods along Boulevard East. Legitimate contractors will proudly display their craftsmanship and safety record.

Contract Terms and Conditions

Never initiate work with a contractor until a comprehensive written contract has been signed. The contract should clearly define all of the work to be performed, describe the materials and equipment to be used, identify the start date and completion date, detail the terms of payment, and describe the contractor’s responsibility for cleaning up after the work has been completed. Also, the contract should contain language regarding acquiring permits and adhering to the local regulations previously mentioned. The contract should also outline the contractor’s liability for damages to your property and the contractor’s plan for resolving disputes. Contractors should provide you with clear contact information and a warranty for a reasonable length of time. Do not hire contractors who refuse to write down the agreement or who use ambiguous language describing the work to be performed.

Equipment and Safety Protocols

Tree-care professionals utilize specialized equipment and safety protocols. Inspect to determine whether contractors are utilizing proper safety equipment, i.e., hard hats, eye protection, fall-protection equipment, etc. Contractors should be equipped with professional-grade equipment, e.g., bucket trucks, chippers, climbing gear, etc., in good working order. Legitimate tree-care contractors adhere to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards for tree-care work. They understand that working above ground near structures, working with electrical wires, and working near homes, etc. necessitates extreme safety precautions. Do not consider contractors who seem nonchalant regarding safety.

Conclusion

Upon completing your research, compare all factors, e.g., qualifications, references, estimates, and your overall comfort with each contractor. While the lowest bid may not necessarily be the best option, particularly for large trees that are common in established West New York neighborhoods, it is essential to evaluate the contractor’s ability to provide the services that you require. Evaluate the contractor’s communication methods, professionalism, and ability to respond to your inquiries about their processes. We pride ourselves on establishing a positive relationship with our customers by demonstrating our expertise in local regulations, proper techniques, and customer service throughout the entire evaluation process.

Post-Hire Evaluation

Although you will have selected a reputable tree-service contractor, continue to monitor their work activities. Professional contractors communicate with you continually about the status of the work, any unexpected problems, and when the work will be completed. They will protect the surrounding property, completely clean up after the work, and address any of your concerns immediately. Document the work, including photographs, and retain all contracts, permits, and receipts. Documentation of the work provides you with a paper trail that can be used to support any future insurance claims, property records, and other future tree-care decisions. Many legitimate contractors will provide you with suggestions for future maintenance needs and remain available for any future tree-care needs.