How to Choose the Best Arborist: Qualifications, Certifications & What to Ask

Choosing the right arborist isn’t just about finding someone who owns a chainsaw — it’s about trusting your property and the health of your trees to a skilled, certified professional. A qualified arborist can improve your trees’ health, enhance your landscape, and protect your home from hazards.

At Dogwood Hills Tree Farm, we believe an informed customer is a confident customer. Here’s what you need to know before hiring an arborist.

Why Hire a Professional Arborist?

Trees are living structures, and their care requires more than basic landscaping skills. Certified arborists have the training and experience to:

• Diagnose tree health issues.

• Follow safe trimming and removal practices.

• Protect surrounding property and landscaping during work.

• Recommend long-term care strategies.

Key Qualifications to Look For

When choosing an arborist, these credentials and qualities should be at the top of your list:

1. ISA Certification

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certification is the gold standard. An ISA Certified Arborist has demonstrated:

• Extensive knowledge of tree biology, safety, and best practices.

• Ongoing education to stay current with industry standards.

• Commitment to ethical and professional service.

2. Insurance & Licensing

Always confirm your arborist carries:

• General liability insurance – Protects your property in case of accidental damage.

• Worker’s compensation insurance – Protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property.

• Any state or local licenses required for tree care services.

3. Experience & References

Ask how long they’ve been in business, and request:

• References from recent clients.

• Photos of similar projects.

• Information about specialized training or equipment.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

• What is your approach to tree trimming or removal? Look for answers referencing ANSI A300 standards.

• Will you provide a written estimate? Avoid companies that only give verbal quotes.

• What safety measures do you take? This should include proper PPE, rigging, and ground protection.

• How will you protect my lawn, garden, and nearby structures?

• Do you remove all debris, or is that an additional charge?

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• No proof of certification or insurance.

• Pressure to make immediate decisions without a proper inspection.

• Offering to “top” a tree (this is harmful and outdated practice).

• Significantly lower prices than competitors — often a sign of cutting corners.

The Dogwood Hills Tree Farm Difference

When you hire us, you’re working with ISA Certified Arborists who bring:

• Decades of combined experience.

• State-of-the-art equipment for safe, efficient work.

• A commitment to sustainable, ethical tree care.

• A clean, respectful approach to working on your property.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right arborist means choosing someone who values safety, tree health, and your peace of mind. Whether you need trimming, removal, or tree health assessments, your trees deserve expert care.

Ready to work with the best? Contact Dogwood Hills Tree Farm today to schedule your free consultation.