Do I really need to hire an arborist if I have someone willing to cut/prune my tree?
Absolutely. An arborist holds special training in the area of trees and shrubs. Arborists are knowledgeable about the science behind trees – how they grow, what they need and how to provide proper care including diagnosing trees for health, diseases/pests and to make sure your tree is healthy for many years to come!
Additonally, Your friend/family member, landscaper, lawn care company, no matter how well intentioned, does not have the correct insurance and expertise in order to complete your job safely. When it comes to pruning, proper pruning practices are so important that the Province of Manitoba requires anyone providing this service to be formally trained and licensed. Making ‘stub’ cuts or ‘flush’ cuts are equally bad for your trees health. Also, if pruning trees with infection/blight, you can spread the infection to the rest of the tree if you do not take the necessary precautions in between cuts.
Tree removal is one of the most dangerous jobs in Canada and takes skill, experience, training, knowledge and special insurance to do it safely! If using an unlicensed arborist or one without the proper insurance or workers compensation and something happens to your property, insurance may not cover you. If something happens to your family/neighbor, or even the person you hired, you can be held liable and they can sue you! The question would be is it worth the risk?"