One of the first questions people ask us is simply, “how much will it cost?” It is a fair question, but the honest answer is that no two trees are the same, so no two prices are either. Rather than quote a figure that could be wildly wrong, it helps to understand what actually goes into the cost of pruning or trimming a tree.
The size and height of the tree
Size is the biggest single factor. A small ornamental tree you could almost reach from the ground is a very different job from a tall, mature tree that needs climbing or access equipment. The taller and larger the tree, the more time, skill and kit the work takes, and the more waste there is to clear afterwards.
The type of work
A light trim is not the same as a full crown reduction. The main types of tree pruning techniques each take different amounts of time: crown thinning, crown lifting, deadwooding, reshaping and reduction all vary in how much is removed and how carefully it has to be done.
Access and location
How easy it is to reach the tree matters. A tree in an open garden with a clear path for machinery is straightforward. A tree hemmed in by buildings, fences, greenhouses or power lines has to be dismantled in small sections and lowered carefully, which takes longer. Where we can park and how far waste has to be carried also play a part.
Waste removal
Clearing and disposing of branches, logs and clippings is part of almost every job. A large tree produces a surprising volume of material. If you would like to keep logs for firewood or woodchip for your borders, do say so, as it can reduce what needs taking away.
Protected trees and permissions
Some trees are covered by a Tree Preservation Order or sit within a conservation area. Where that is the case, consent from the council is needed before work starts. We can help you understand whether this applies to your tree.
Why we quote every job individually
Because all of these factors combine differently for every tree, the fairest and most accurate way to price work is to come and look at it. Our visit and quote are free and come with no obligation, so you know exactly where you stand before deciding anything.
If you are also thinking about your hedges, our guide to hedge trimming covers how those jobs are priced and timed too.
Need a hand with your trees or hedges?
We are local to Chessington and happy to take a look and give you a free, no-obligation quote.