Finding a Trusted Tree Surgeon Near Me: What to Check
When you type “tree surgeon near me” into Google, it’s usually because something needs sorting – fast.
Maybe there’s a tree leaning after last night’s storm. Maybe your garden’s been overtaken by branches and stumps. Or maybe you’re just not sure if something needs doing, but your gut says it does.
Whatever the reason, choosing the right tree surgeon isn’t as easy as it sounds – especially with so many companies out there offering “cheap and fast” tree work. And as a team of local pros who’ve fixed plenty of botched jobs around Norwich, we want to help you avoid the usual traps.
Here’s what you need to look for when searching for a tree surgeon near me – whether you’re in Thorpe, Costessey, or somewhere out in the sticks.
Check 1: Do They Have Insurance? (And Can They Prove It?)
First things first: if they’re not insured, don’t hire them.
Tree surgery is a high-risk job. Falling limbs, dropped tools, property damage – it can all happen, even to experienced teams. A reputable tree surgeon near you should carry:
- Public liability insurance (at least £2 million)
- Employers’ liability insurance
- Proof on request – if they hesitate, walk away.
We’ve had clients call us after a “budget” contractor felled a tree through a greenhouse, only to vanish without a trace. Don’t risk it. Ask to see the paperwork.
Check 2: Are They Qualified - Or Just Good with a Chainsaw?
You’d be amazed how many people buy a chainsaw and call themselves tree surgeons.
A genuine tree surgeon near me should have formal qualifications. Look out for:
- NPTC City & Guilds certifications – especially CS30/31/38/39
- LOLER certification for climbing and rigging equipment
- First Aid training (particularly for work at height)
These aren’t just tick-box items. They’re your guarantee that the work will be done safely and legally.
Check 3: Do They Know the Local Landscape?
Tree surgery isn’t the same in every town. In Norwich, we’ve got a unique mix of urban gardens, conservation areas, and rural estates. And that creates specific challenges:
- Tight garden access in places like the Golden Triangle
- Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) in historic areas like Eaton and Thorpe Hamlet
- Soft ground conditions after weeks of Norfolk rain
- Conifers that outgrow their space in suburban areas
A proper local tree surgeon will ask the right questions: what species is it? Is it protected? How will we access it? If you’re getting vague answers, be cautious.
Check 4: Will They Handle the Waste Properly?
We’ve seen some horror stories. A pile of branches dumped in the driveway. Logs chucked into a flower bed. Chippings blown onto the lawn and left there.
When you search for a tree surgeon near me, you want someone who clears up after themselves.
We chip branches on-site and either leave mulch (if you want it) or take it away for composting. Larger timber gets split for firewood or responsibly disposed of. Nothing’s left behind unless it’s part of the plan.
Check 5: Are They Giving You a Proper Quote?
A good quote should include:
- Scope of work – exactly what’s being done
- Timescale – how long it will take
- Waste removal – whether it’s included
- Access needs – if ladders, ropes, or machinery are involved
If the quote is vague – “we’ll sort it for £200” – beware. We’ve been called in plenty of times to fix work that was rushed or incomplete because no one agreed on what was actually being done.
Also, if the price feels too cheap, it probably is. Quality tree work takes time, gear, and skill. You’re not just paying for cuts – you’re paying for safety, planning, and peace of mind.
Check 6: Are They Willing to Say “Don’t Cut It”?
Here’s a big one. Not every tree needs cutting.
Sometimes, people call asking for full removal when a simple crown reduction or deadwood trim would be better for the tree and their budget. A proper tree surgeon near you will tell you not to cut if it’s not necessary.
We had a callout in Sprowston last year. The homeowner was convinced their oak needed removing due to a lean. After inspection, we explained it was perfectly healthy – just growing toward the light. We did a minor lift instead, and they saved over £1,000.
Honest advice matters.
Bonus Tip: Google Isn’t Everything
Yes, searching for a tree surgeon near me is a good start – but don’t just click the top ad or the cheapest listing.
Instead
- Check Google reviews
- Look at recent photos of work
- Ask neighbours or friends who they’ve used
A real local company will have a track record you can trust.
Final Thoughts – Find the Right Tree Surgeon Near You
We know how overwhelming it can be when you’ve got a tree that needs urgent work. But don’t rush. Take the time to find a tree surgeon near me who’s fully trained, insured, local, and honest.
Whether it’s a full takedown, careful pollarding, or just a bit of advice – we’re always happy to help. We’ve worked across Norwich for years, and we’re proud of the care we take on every job, big or small.
Need a tree surgeon near you in Norwich?
We’re around most days – drop us a message and we’ll happily take a look or give a no-nonsense quote.