How to Select an Arborist or Tree Trimmer

Below are tips that were given to us by the Louisiana Department of Agriculture in regards to selecting an arborist or tree trimming contractor: 

The Louisiana Horticulture Law states that no person shall receive fees, advertise, or solicit business in a regulated profession (examples, arborist, landscape horticulturist, irrigation contractor) or occupation unless he holds the appropriate license or permit, or has a regular employee who holds the appropriate license or permit, or is employed by a person who holds the appropriate license or permit.  For specifics on what each license or permit authorizes, see Section 3808 of the Horticulture Commission Law.  All licensees are required to place at least one of their license numbers on all business related vehicles that have advertisements on them (Section 115 E of regulations).

EIGHT TIPS FOR SELECTING AN ARBORIST

1. Beware of door-knockers/solicitors. This is especially common after storms when non-professionals see a chance to earn some quick money.  Also, some companies will ask for money in advance of work done or mostly completed.  DO NOT pay any money until the work is COMPLETED.

2. Never let yourself be rushed by bargains such as, "If you sign an agreement today, I can take ten percent off the price…"

3. Ask to see his/her arborist's license. All practicing arborists must be licensed by the State of Louisiana through the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry.   The blue license certificate should be in the following format. Year- License number.  Ex: 09-1234

4. Ask for certificate of insurance including proof of liability for personal and property damage, and workman's compensation. Then phone the insurance company to make certain the policy is current.  This phone call is very important to insure that the company has paid their premiums on time. 

5. Ask for local references-other jobs the company has done. Take a look at some.

6. Have more than one arborist look at your job and give you estimates. Don't expect one to lower a bid to match another's, and be willing to pay for the estimate if necessary.

7. A good arborist will not use climbing spikes if the tree is to remain in the landscape.

8. Beware of an arborist who is too eager to remove a living tree.  

For current information about Louisiana's licensed arborists, please call the Louisiana Department of Agriculture at (225) 952-8100, or www.ldaf.state.la.us and then scroll and click on Find a Licensed Horticulture Professional. Click on Arborist. Scroll down to your parish (East Baton Rouge) and look for the person’s name or company name.