Yeah im not talking about true reports here. I do plenty of that and charge accordingly, towards/at the high end of the market even as i struggle to find the time for them.
This is more about Consultation. Different to a quote. When doing a quote im happy to help advise them towards the best solution for their problem, no worries. But i wont go for an hour drive round trip and spend an hour with someone coz they were wondering how their tree is doing. My consultations are $80 - $110 depending on how close they are. I often credit it back towards any recommended work if done by us. I also charge a fee when asked to quote at a property someone is thinking of buying or for companies wanting to price the tree component so they can tender for an overall project.
Ive had a client i did a consult for. When i do i give them a page from my quote book with the description "Arboricultural Consultation on Genus species"
She wanted me to note down on there what i said. Basically the tree was senescent and had died back beyond what i thought worth saving. Recommended removal & replacement. Fortunately she lost her copy. But is now hassling us for another copy, which would be ok, except she wants to give it to the council because they asked for a report for approval.
Ive tried explaining that its not a report by any means, that would be a much more complex document in a recognised format and would cost more. Now because she didnt get what she wants she blames us for the suposed foundation damage caused to her house because the tree hasnt been removed yet.
So i guess now a consultation is strictly verbal.
Anything on paper can be no less than a full report. As boa pointed out, then you at least have all your caveats to cover your butt. |