5 Essential Things to Consider Before Removing a Tree

/in /by

There are many reasons why it might become necessary for a tree to be removed from your property. The tree might be dead, making it a waste of valuable space; a tree might be storm damaged, making it a potential hazard for all those who walk past it; or a tree might block views, making it an annoying obstacle. 

Whatever the reason may be for removing a tree, tree removal is an essential aspect of property maintenance. If you’ve found yourself needing to remove a tree from your property, it’s important to understand what the process entails and some of the consequences that may arise throughout the whole process. In this post, we’ve rounded up 5 of the most essential factors to consider before removing a tree.

1. Rules and Regulations

Although the tree might be on your property, the decision to remove it might not always be completely up to you. Local councils across Australia and New Zealand all have different rules and regulations relating to tree removal. What’s more is that some types of trees are subject to environmental protection laws. That’s why it’s always a good idea to do some research into your local council’s rules prior to felling a tree. If you fail to do this, you might be hit with some lofty fines and fees. If you really can’t be bothered sifting through local council requirements, the good news is that your local tree removal specialist will usually be across all the relevant rules and regulations, so you won’t have to do a thing. 

 

2. Environmental Impact

We all know that planting trees helps to combat the adverse effects of climate change. This is because trees contribute greatly to the environmental health of their ecosystems. From preventing soil erosion to promoting soil fertility, trees are a miracle worker when it comes to the environmental health of their surroundings. Before you begin making arrangements to remove a tree, it’s good practice to seek an arborist’s report on your tree and its impact on its local environment. This way, you can be sure that you aren’t causing any damage to your local ecosystem. 

3. Property Damage

If the tree in question is in close proximity to your neighbour’s property, the risk of property damage is fairly high. It’s for this reason that we always recommend hiring an expert tree removal company to do the job. Insurance companies do offer policies that cover tree damage, but your claim will most definitely be denied if you fail to hire a professional to complete the task. 

It’s also good practice to communicate with your neighbours from the get-go to prevent any bad feelings and hostility. If you’d like some extra backup, you can also request your tree removal expert to write a certified letter that states the plans for removal, as well as the reasons for removal. 

4. Waste Disposal 

There’s a lot more to tree removal than simply cutting down a tree. Once it’s been cut down, you’ll be left with a large pile of tree branches, leaves, and other debris. It’s a good idea to have a waste disposal plan in place before you embark on the project, so that you’re not left with a pile (literally) of problems to deal with at the end. 

Many tree removal companies offer waste disposal services, too. At Jim’s Trees and Jim’s Tree & Stump Removal, we offer comprehensive tree removal services that can include green waste disposal and a final cleanup of your property. We would recommend asking your tree removal expert about their waste disposal plans upfront, so that you’re both on the same page.

5. Falling Branches and Other Potential Hazards

Falling tree branches are serious hazards that have the potential to seriously hurt and injure people. This is why it’s not advisable to take the DIY route when it comes to tree felling. Not only will it threaten the safety of other people, it will put you in harm’s way, too. 

Since it’s not always possible to predict the exact direction that trees and branches will fall, it’s a good idea to clean the entire area before the trees are removed. Objects like toys, trampolines, and laundry lines are common casualties of falling branches. 

It’s also extremely important to take into account the potential of electrocution. When tree branches are cut, they may come in contact with electrical wires. To prevent the risk of electrical damage or electrocution, it’s important to contact your power company prior to the project’s start date to disconnect the wires.

Tree removal is something that most property owners will have to deal with at least once in their lives. Before you begin the project, it’s important to make all the necessary arrangements so that the project runs smoothly and stress-free. If you’re in Australia, the experts at Jim’s Trees can help you put together a plan to get rid of that pesky tree on property. For our New Zealand readers, the experts at Jim’s Tree & Stump Removal also offer comprehensive tree and stump removal services that get your property looking amazing. Give Jim’s Group a call on 13 15 46 for an obligation-free quote. 

Related Jim’s Group News

– Who Pays to Cut Overchanging Branches?
– What’s The Best Time of The Year to Remove Trees?