7 Things You Need To Know About Tree Removal

Tree removal seems simple, but it rarely is. It’s a dangerous and potentially costly undertaking that is best left to tree removal specialists. If you choose to do your own tree removal, below is a list of some of the important things you must consider:

Municipal Bylaws

Toronto and many other municipalities in the GTA have bylaws affecting tree removal, including removing trees from private property. In Toronto for example, the Private Tree By-law generally stipulates that, with few exceptions, you need a permit from the city to remove any tree whose trunk in 30 cm (12 inches) or more in diameter at a height of 1.4 m (4.5 ft.).

Make sure you are in compliance with local laws before you remove any trees. If your tree removal includes

Underground Hazards

removing the stump and root structure, you must check for buried cables, sewer and/or gas lines that could be damaged.

Proximity To Your Home Or Building

Sometimes we want to remove a tree that’s too close to our home. Extra care must be taken to properly remove overhanging to avoid serious damage to your home. Even small branches are usually much heavier than they look.

Trees That Overhang Neighbouring Property

Sometimes part or even most of a tree whose trunk is on your property overhangs a neighbour’s property. Again, you should check local bylaws that may apply to such situations, but it is always a good idea to consult with your neighbor and preferably get their permission before removing a tree that over hangs his or her property.

Insurance

Make sure your insurance covers the sort of property damage and personal injury that could occur to you, your neighbours or strangers due to removing your tree.

Disposal

Most people underestimate the amount of material that they will need to dispose of after removing a tree. Removing a mature tree can leave many tons of wood, branches and debris that simply can’t be left on the curb for municipal garbage pickup. Many professional tree removal specialists have an on-site shredder to reduce disposal costs and make the job easier.

Hire A Professional

Again, removing a tree can be a very dangerous activity that causes severe bodily injury to you and others and very serious damage to your home and property.

If that’s not reason enough, hiring a professional tree removal company means you don’t have to worry about getting permits, finding out about underground hazards, damaging your or your neighbour’s property, or disposing of all that wood.

Of course, you need to make sure you are dealing with a reputable company so, when talking to potential companies, don’t be afraid to ask for references, to see qualifications and for proof of substantial insurance coverage.

If you are looking for one of the leading tree services in Toronto, call DreamWorks today at 647-924-2627 or 1-800-407-9917 or contact us to book a free consultation and assessment.