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Tree Surgeons - what you need to know

Tree surgeons understand the physiology of trees, assessing their form and growth patterns so they can be kept healthy. Tree surgeons also make sure that trees are structurally sound as well as aesthetically pleasing.

Pruning

Pruning happens for a few different reasons. If parts of a tree become diseased, it may be necessary to prune it to keep the tree healthy. This might also be done simply to make the tree more pleasant on the eye. Branches can become hazardous when they get in the way of gutters, roads, roofs and power lines, so will need to be pruned back for safety reasons. Lastly, you might just need more light and a tree is blocking it.

Tree removal

Trees sometimes need to be removed, again, for a few different reasons. It might be to aid construction, or because the tree is dead, or it might be vulnerable to storms so is removed to stop it from causing damage.

Tree surgery

Branches can be braced for added strength, and the tree can be injected with nutrients to improve health.

Thinning

Thinning a tree allows extra light through the tree, reducing wind resistance. This makes the tree safer, especially during storms or high winds.

Root management

Roots of large trees can cause damage to paths and driveways if not kept under control.

Relocating trees

Trees don’t need to be cut down if they’re causing issues – they can simply be moved to a more suitable location.

Stump removal

This one needs no explanation. Unless it makes for a nice garden seat you’ll probably want rid of it, and a tree surgeon can get the job done.

The qualifications your tree surgeon needs

There are no set qualifications required to be a tree surgeon. Most tree surgeons gain experience on the job, perhaps as a grounds worker or through a college course. A good tree surgeon will have a broad knowledge of the various power tools involved, as well as ropes and harnesses.

Planning permission for tree surgeon jobs

Many trees are protected by tree preservation orders which means that, in general, you need the council's consent to prune or fell them. In addition, there are controls over many other trees in conservation areas. Find out more at the Planning Portal.

Insurance for tree surgeon work

It’s important that your tree surgeon has public liability insurance, which protects against any damage caused to your property.

Building regulations for tree surgeons

Building regulations don’t apply to trees and hedges, but foundations can be affected by tree roots and soil moisture. This should always be considered when planting or removing trees, or when building new structures. Some tree species can affect foundations over 20 metres away.

Questions you should ask a tree surgeon

• Do they have public liability insurance?
• Can they provide references for previous work done?
• Will they supply all materials?
• How long have they been trading for?

Tree surgeon ideas

Avoiding tree damage – do you need a tree surgeon? Looking for a new tree? Check out our tree-buying guide.