Storm Cleanup: Important Tips When Choosing an Arborist

Marshfield, WI (OnFocus) As homeowners clean up after destructive storms this past weekend, one local arborist is reminding residents to be cautious when selecting a tree care service.

Luke Haas, owner of Haas Tree Care, LLC, based in Arpin, has been working steady since the storms helping to safely cut down and clear damaged trees. Along with many other local tree services, his work has focused on helping those affected by the severe weather.

Haas, an ISA Certified Arborist and Certified Tree Care Safety Professional, encourages anyone hiring a tree service to follow a few basic guidelines to ensure everyone stays safe during what can be a dangerous task.

Haas shared his friendly advice on Facebook, broken down into five tips:

1. Make sure the arborist has insurance! Ask for a proof of insurance.
2. If they are not wearing any safety equipment (hard hat, safety glasses, chainsaw protective chaps, work boots) they’re more of a liability than an asset for you.
3. Ask for a price BEFORE the work begins so no surprises happen.
4. Check for credentials (ISA Certified Arborist is the most recognizable).
5. If they “just got in the business,” review line items 1-4.

“The goal is sharing these tips is to ensure the homeowner has the best experience possible!” said Haas. “Anyone who steps foot on your property without insurance is a huge liability not only for your property, because they could cause further damage that homeowners insurance doesn’t cover, but also if this so-called tree guy seriously injures himself, there could be a lawsuit.”

He said that an arborist without an ISA certification is like a doctor without a medical degree. Certifications show that the company or arborist has taken time to increase their knowledge, which means a safer and more efficient crew.

“ISA certified is important because we’ve gone through proper training on what’s best not only for tree health, but it includes intensive safety training like how to cut trees at the best angles, how tree weight can affect cutting,” said Haas. “Especially after storm damage, trees have a lot of tension on them so it’s important to know exactly where to cut trees to avoid them flying back at you.”

Safety is foremost when it comes to cleaning up after a storm. “Just because you own a chainsaw, it does not make you a professional. Storm damage presents new obstacles that standard tree work does not,” said Haas. “Multiple forces can be applied to the stem and if careful consideration and care is not taken, serious injury can occur! Be smart and be safe!”