Tree removal services can be costly, especially if you’re not sure exactly how much you need them and whether your insurance will cover the cost. There are some great ways to get these services at no cost to you whatsoever, however, even if they’re not always obvious or easy to find. Use this guide from our company, Cape Cod Tree Removal Services, to learn more about how to get tree removal services for free.
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Trees Growing on Power Lines
Before your trees start growing into power lines, contact your utility company and request a tree trimming schedule. Most utility companies will do an annual or semi-annual trim of any trees that are dangerously close to power lines. The job should be free since you pay a fee for service (your electric bill) with your utility company.
Trees near power lines pose a danger to everyone. If you are trimming your trees and notice that there are branches close enough to touch live wires, it’s important not to get too close. Do not trim branches if they come into contact with power lines—call your utility company immediately and let them know about any potential hazards.
If a storm comes through, trees can easily be blown over strong winds. They can knock down power lines and cause power outages in an entire neighborhood. Most utility companies have plans in place to send crews out as soon as possible to clear debris and repair or replace damaged wires. You should contact your local utility company before doing any tree trimming—this way you’ll know if they will handle most of it or if you’ll need to take care of any problem branches on your own.
Wood from Trees – Sell it Before You Cut It Down
By selling firewood and other pieces of wood (such as post beams) before you cut it down, you’ll be able to earn money right away. Wood is a hot commodity and you should be able to find someone willing to buy your wood while it’s still standing in your yard. If you have a lot of trees, consider renting a log splitter or some form of machine that can help you cut down larger pieces quickly.
When listing your tree wood on craigslist, facebook, or other marketplace platforms, interested parties may be capable of cutting the tree down themselves. If that’s something they’re interested in doing (and can do safely), you can offer them the wood in exchange for cutting it down. Of course, if someone isn’t willing to cut down a tree and still wants some wood, you should also mention that you’ll happily provide firewood as well. The sale of the firewood may just offset the cost of cutting down the trees.
Local Municipalities Will Cover Costs
Check with your local municipality to see if they offer tree removal services at no cost. If they do, that can save you several hundred dollars and prevent you from having a giant stump in your yard for months. There are always stipulations attached to these programs, so make sure you understand them before making any decisions.
Homeowner’s Insurance
If you have homeowner’s insurance, make sure that it covers tree removal or pruning in case of damage. The specifics of coverage will vary from one insurance company to another. If your policy doesn’t include such coverage, ask if you can add it on and how much it would cost. It might be a good idea to purchase other types of insurance as well so that you have a better range of options and are covered for more situations.
The first step is to check whether tree removal services are covered your home insurance policy. There are usually certain scenarios that decide whether it’s covered or not. If it’s covered your insurer may list specific companies they recommend you use, and will pay their full fee. Alternatively, they may say that you can use any company of your choosing. The last thing you want is for your claim to be denied because you picked an expensive service that wasn’t actually covered.
DIY Removal
If you’re willing to work hard and get your hands dirty, taking on a tree removal job yourself can save you some serious money. In some cases, all you’ll need is a chainsaw and some muscle. This should only be considered for small trees or if you’re experienced with tree removal. Also keep in mind that larger trees may require professional tools, so you’ll have to hire someone else if they fall outside of what your equipment can handle. If you don’t know what you’re doing it can turn into a problem very quickly. Your free DIY project could turn into thousands of dollars in repairs. Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should do something.
Should I Only Do It If It’s Free?
So, you’re thinking about getting a tree removed from your property. Great! Whether it’s in your front yard or back, a tree can be both beautiful and dangerous at the same time. Before you decide to cut down that magnificent oak, you should know if it’s going to cost you a pretty penny or if it can be completely free. A great rule of thumb is that free services don’t last forever, so take advantage of these options while they last.
If a free tree service isn’t offered, that doesn’t mean you should ignore your trees. It’s important to keep them healthy with annual checkups; call around and compare prices before settling on a specific company. This allows you to ensure your trees are always taken care of at an affordable price. Home Advisor states the average cost for tree removal is between $200 and $2,000. This isn’t too bad when considering how much it may cost to repair damages from a neglected tree. Whether a tree fell on your house or roots broke through your sidewalk, replacing both will require money—lots of it.
Consider tree removal services as an investment in your property and health. Annual visits from a qualified arborist can prevent damage to your house and minimize accidents, keeping you safe and healthy. If you decide not to take care of your trees now, it may cost you down the road!