How to Hire a Reputable Tree Service in Smith County
In Tyler, trees are big business. And unfortunately, that attracts a lot of unqualified operators. After every major storm, we see "storm chasers" flood into Smith County—guys with a pickup truck and a chainsaw but no insurance, no training, and no accountability.
Hiring the wrong tree service can cost you thousands. If an uninsured worker drops a limb on your roof or gets injured on your property, you could be liable.
Here is your checklist for hiring a reputable tree service in Tyler, Whitehouse, and Lindale.
1. Proof of Insurance (Non-Negotiable)
This is the #1 rule. Never let anyone climb a tree on your property without seeing a Certificate of Insurance (COI).
- General Liability: Covers damage to your home (e.g., if they drop a tree on your fence or roof).
- Workers' Compensation: Covers the crew if they get hurt. Without this, an injured worker could sue you for their medical bills.
The Tyler Tree Service Promise: We carry full GL and Workers' Comp. We are happy to email you a copy of our certificate before we start.
2. Specialized Equipment vs. "Spikes"
Ask how they plan to prune your trees.
- The Warning Sign: If they say they will use "spikes" (climbing gaffs) to climb a tree you want to keep (like for trimming), fire them immediately. Spikes puncture the cambium layer and introduce disease. Spikes should only be used for removals.
- The Pro Way: We use ropes, harnesses, and bucket trucks to access the canopy without wounding the tree.
3. Written Estimates
A verbal price is meaningless. Unscrupulous contractors will quote a low price, start the job, and then demand more money to finish "because it was harder than they thought."
Always get a detailed written estimate that includes:
- Exact scope of work (which trees, what gets cut).
- Cleanup details (is haul-away included? Stump grinding?).
- Total price.
4. Local References
Are they from here? Or did they just drive in from out of state because they heard there was a storm?
Local companies like Tyler Tree Service have a reputation to maintain. We live here. We are your neighbors in Smith County. We aren't going to disappear tomorrow.
5. Safety Gear (PPE)
Look at the crew. Are they wearing helmets? Chainsaw chaps? Eye protection? Or are they in t-shirts and tennis shoes?
Lack of PPE is a sign of a lack of professionalism. Tree work is the one of the most dangerous jobs in the U.S. A crew that doesn't care about their own safety won't care about your property's safety.
The Safe Choice for Tyler
We started Tyler Tree Service to provide a higher standard of care for East Texas homeowners. We don't cut corners. We don't hide fees. We just do safe, professional work at a fair price.
Ready for a quote you can trust?