We do company wide trainings regularly like this one. We recieved our certificates for CPR and First Aid

We're family oriented and enjoy spending time together outside of work

Be aware of the dangers and risks of hiring just any tree service to handle your tree project.

“The other tree guy said….”

…Their “price” is the lowest and/or cheapest

We see this all too often after talking with many homeowners who have been wronged or manipulated by a seemingly genuine contractor. Low pricing is a red flag that you’ll experience buyer's remorse caused by many of the issues listed below. The consequences can range, but once the project is underway, some contractors may demand a higher price in order to finish the work.

…They can “trim” my tree or give it a “haircut”

Improperly pruning trees can permanently damage them, cause them to become a safety hazard, kill them, or all of the above. Some tree services are only able to climb using climbing ‘spikes’, which will cause damage and entry wounds where disease and insects may enter the tree.

Did they specify which type of pruning they would perform, and do they prune according to ANSI A300 standards? (See also TCIA article)

Are they aware of diseases that are spread by cutting, and the proper way to sanitize their tools?

If not, you put yourself at risk of accidentally killing the tree, or the tree becoming a greater hazard down the road. That creates additional costs for the future if corrective pruning or removal is required.

…They have “safe” equipment

Unfortunately every year across our state many cranes, bucket trucks, and lifts at incompetent companies fail. In some cases they even collapse causing damage to homes and powerlines nearby. This is due to either mechanical issues, lack of inspections, and stability issues from improperly trained employees. At Cutting Edge our team of professionally trained staff have proper licenses and certifications for the equipment we operate. We also have a robust maintenance and repair program. This ensures that your project is completed on time with the highest quality and the least amount of damage to your property.

…They are “experienced”

It’s important to know the difference between truly having 20 years of experience VS having 1 year of experience 20 years in a row. If professional training, reflection, and improvement aren’t a part of a company’s every day routine they may just be getting lucky at avoiding a catastrophe… But what will happen if their luck runs out while working at your property?

…They have a “plan” for the work

Work being performed in certain areas may require permission, permitting, or licensing.

Examples of these areas are:

• Property Lines: For work performed along a property line, did they discuss the job with any adjoining property owners? Was permission granted for special equipment access? Relationships with neighbors that took a while to build could be tarnished in a single day.

• Power Lines: Was the power company contacted in advance? Will the minimum approach distance be breached? Are they risking electrocution and/or fires by working too closely to the power lines?

• Public Roadways: Is a traffic control plan in writing and in place? Were road permits acquired?

• Underground Utilities: Did they discuss appropriate ground protection? ex: plywood matting? If removing stumps, was proper authority notified (*811)?

…They have “insurance”

Not all insurances are created equal, and we hear all too often about homeowners getting dragged into civil suits. The risks you’re exposing yourself to may be a lot bigger than you know.  Did they present a copy of their insurance? Did it include General Liability, Workers Compensation, or others? An injury sustained by a worker during the job could impact your insurance.

…They have “official” looking emblems or badges 

If you see emblems or badges, be certain to distinguish between a simple membership, and a legitimate certification or license. Becoming a member or being affiliated with a tree industry association may only require a small fee, but it does not endorse that company in any way shape or form. See the link here for our company credentials.