You’ve probably heard it before — the cost to remove a tree is outrageous. What many homeowners fail to realize, though, is that a professional tree removal service determines said cost based on certain factors. By better understanding tree removal and why companies charge what they do, you can make the most informed decision possible for your tree.
Let’s start with what’s included with basic tree removal. In most cases, the contractor will have to rope down pieces by climbing and cutting the tree into more manageable sizes. Just know that not every company will haul away the debris and tree limbs without charging an additional fee.
Speaking of additional fees, here are some services that may not be included in a basic tree removal:
- Stump removal – Rarely is stump removal included in the price of removing a tree. So unless you fork over more cash, you could be left with an unsightly stump in your yard. One more thing worth noting here is that a rotting stump should be cheaper to remove than a healthy, solid stump.
- Limb chipping – Would you rather have the limbs chipped than hauled off your property? Then be sure to ask the company if they have a chipper available. If it’s not included in the original price, you may have to pay around $100 to have it done.
- Tree trunk removal – It’s pretty standard for a tree care company to cut the trunk into smaller sections. That said, you should probably expect to pay an additional fee for them to haul those sections away. Similar to limb chipping, around $100 is the norm for this task to be completed.
- Log splitting – Wouldn’t it be great if you could save some of the wood for your fireplace? More tree maintenance crews are starting to bring along a log splitting machine for this reason alone. Keep in mind that log splitting adds around an extra $75 to the total removal price.
How much will it cost to remove my tree?
Now that we’ve discussed the add-on services and fees associated with them, let’s get into how much you’ll actually have to pay for tree removal. As you might have guessed, the cost largely depends on the size of the tree. Consider the following scenarios:
- Large tree removal ($1,500) – No company out there is going to remove your tree for a couple hundred bucks. If you try to hunt for bargains and low-ball offers, there’s a good chance you’ll be the latest victim of a tree removal scam. Don’t lose sight of the fact that no homeowner can safely remove a large tree from their property.
- Fallen tree removal ($150) – There are a number of challenges that come with removing a fallen tree. The good thing is that this task isn’t nearly as risky as removing a healthy, living tree. Double-check with the company as to whether you want the tree completely hauled away or simply chipped into tiny pieces. Check out “Leave Those Storm-Damaged Trees in the Hands of a Professional” for more information.”
- Tree branch removal ($300) – Maybe all your tree needs is a few branches removed. Simple enough, right? Here’s the thing: If the branches are at all interfering with power lines, you will need to contact your local utility company. They should come out and handle the branches at no cost. However, if you need branches removed for cosmetic or other reasons, expect to pay around $300.
CHICAGO’S CHOICE FOR TREE REMOVAL
There’s no question that the cost of tree removal is significant. That’s why Pro Tree Service makes such a conscious effort to keep prices low through our Best Price Guarantee. Simply come to us with any reasonable, written estimate and we will match or beat it by 10 percent.
At Pro Tree, we pride ourselves on providing reliable tree services at an affordable price. Whereas competitors nickel and dime customers like crazy, we are completely transparent throughout the process. Never will you have to worry about hidden services, fees, or gimmicks with Pro Tree.
Don’t make the mistake of hiring just any random contractor for your tree removal. Instead, team with a locally owned and operated company that’s been serving Chicago and surrounding suburbs for 30 years.