Who Should Handle Your Trees?
If you live in places like Ottawa Hills, Sylvania, or Downtown Toledo, you know your trees aren’t just background; they’re a big part of what makes your property feel like home. But when it’s time to prune back that leaning maple or remove a storm-damaged oak, hiring just any tree company isn’t the move.
Selecting the right tree service is about protecting your home, your safety, and your wallet. Let’s talk about what really matters when making that decision and why Joey Tree keeps earning the trust of Northwest Ohio homeowners.
Are They Fully Insured?
You wouldn’t let an uninsured roofer climb onto your home. Tree work deserves the same level of caution. A proper tree service should carry both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation.
This protects you from unforeseen damage and makes sure that if anyone on their team gets injured, you’re not stuck paying the costs. Trustworthy companies will readily provide proof of coverage when asked, with no hesitation or fuss.
If a company avoids the question or takes too long, it’s a clear warning sign.
Certification Isn’t Just a Buzzword
Just because someone can operate a chainsaw doesn’t mean they understand tree biology, structural integrity, or proper pruning techniques. That’s where certifications, especially from the ISA (International Society of Arboriculture), really matter.
When you hire a certified arborist, you’re getting more than muscle. You’re getting science-backed knowledge and professional-level care.
This is the significance of that certification:
- The arborist has passed exams on tree biology, diagnosis, and safety standards.
- They follow best practices for pruning, preservation, and removal, not guesswork.
- They’re trained to spot disease, decay, and hidden hazards before they become problems.
- They stay up to date on industry standards through continuing education.
- Certified arborists are held to a code of ethics, ensuring professionalism and accountability.
Local Roots Matter
Bigger isn’t always better. A franchise tree service from out of town may not understand what Toledo homeowners expect, or the specifics of our climate, soil, or city ordinances. A local company will.
We live and work in the same neighborhoods we serve, so we know the quirks of that gnarly oak near your garage or the city’s rules on tree removal along the street. Plus, we’ve built our name on reputation, something you can’t fake when your neighbors are your best referrals.
Look for Reviews, But Read Between the Lines
These days, online reviews carry serious weight. Look for consistency in feedback. Are people saying the company showed up on time, cleaned up well, and communicated throughout the job? Or are there themes of surprise charges, long delays, or poor follow-through?
A few bad reviews are normal; it’s how a company responds that tells the story. At Joey Tree, we take a lot of pride in our word-of-mouth reputation. Check Google, ask around. You’ll hear our name in all the right ways.
Equipment and Crew Size Aren’t Just About Bragging Rights
Tree work isn’t just about cutting; it’s about control. Especially in tight backyards, close to roofs, fences, or power lines, you want a crew with the right tools for the job. Outdated gear or “just winging it” can lead to property damage, safety risks, or half-finished cleanup. That’s why having the right equipment and enough crew really makes a difference.
Here’s what you can expect from a well-equipped tree service:
- Grapple saw trucks or cranes to remove large limbs near structures safely
- Bucket trucks for controlled pruning and removals in hard-to-reach areas
- High-horsepower stump grinders that finish the job below ground level
- Skilled, uniformed crews large enough to handle big jobs efficiently
Transparency is the Trust Builder
A professional tree company should provide a clear, written estimate and walk you through exactly what’s included. Are they hauling away the debris? Grinding the stump? Do they charge extra for cleanup?
Beware of vague or too-good-to-be-true prices. And never, ever pay 100% upfront. We typically bill only after the job is done and our client is fully satisfied. That’s how it should be.
Safety First, Always
Ask about safety protocols. Do they follow OSHA standards? Do they train their team on fall prevention and proper rigging techniques?
Do they rope off work areas or take precautions near driveways and sidewalks? These may sound like little things until something goes wrong. At Joey Tree, safety isn’t a checklist; it’s part of our culture.
Watch Out for Storm Chasers and Door Knockers
After storms, it’s common for sketchy “tree crews” to go door-to-door offering fast cleanup. They may look legit, but many are uninsured, untrained, and gone once they’re paid.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Pressure to “act now” or pay in full upfront
- No proof of insurance or credentials
- Out-of-state trucks or no local presence
Ready For A Pro?
Deciding on a tree company isn’t just about the lowest quote. It’s about finding a team that treats your property with care, communicates clearly, and backs their work with credentials and experience. At Joey Tree, we’ve built our business on exactly that, and we’ve been serving homeowners across Greater Toledo for nearly 20 years.
Whether you need a simple trim in Sylvania or a complex removal in Maumee, we’re ready to help and earn your trust the right way. Send us a message to get a free quote!
