Hiring a Tree Surgeon? Here’s Why Insurance Should Be the First Question You Ask
When hiring someone to work on your trees, the last thing you want to worry about is what happens if something goes wrong. Tree work isn’t just a matter of trimming a few branches — it’s high-risk, often complex, and can result in serious damage or injury if not handled properly. That’s why tree surgeon insurance isn’t just a bonus — it’s essential.
At Forestwood Services, every job we do is fully protected by comprehensive insurance cover. Whether we’re removing a tree next to your home or grinding a stump near a glass conservatory, we have policies in place to keep both you and us fully protected.
What Kind of Insurance Should a Tree Surgeon Have?
There are two core types of insurance every qualified tree surgeon in the UK should carry:
1. Public Liability Insurance
This is the big one. It covers damage to third-party property or injury to members of the public caused during tree work. For example:
-
A falling branch damages your roof
-
A stump grinder breaks a patio or paving slab
-
A log rolls into your neighbour’s garden and damages a fence
We carry £5 million in public liability insurance, which exceeds industry minimums and ensures every job is safe from financial risk.
2. Employer’s Liability Insurance
If the company employs any staff (even temporary or subcontractors), this is a legal requirement. It protects workers in case of injury while on the job.
At Forestwood, we’re fully compliant with this and all HSE regulations for arboriculture.
Why Does Tree Surgery Even Need Insurance?
Tree surgery is a high-risk profession. According to the Arboricultural Association, tree surgeons face:
-
Dangerous heights and rope access
-
Use of powerful machinery (chainsaws, stump grinders)
-
Risk of trees falling in unpredictable ways
-
Working around cars, buildings, and public spaces
Even with the best skills and planning, unexpected things can happen. That’s why any reputable company won’t work without cover — and why you should never hire someone who can’t show you valid insurance documentation.
The Risks of Hiring an Uninsured Tree Surgeon
If you hire someone without insurance — even if they’re cheap — you could be liable for:
-
Repair costs for damaged property (yours or a neighbour’s)
-
Injury claims if someone is hurt
-
Legal fees if a dispute arises
-
Fines if tree protection laws are broken
Cheap work can quickly turn expensive. If a tree lands on your car or your garden fence is flattened, the cost will likely fall on you unless the contractor is insured.
How Forestwood Protects You on Every Job
Here’s what we guarantee for every tree surgery project across Hertfordshire:
-
£5M Public Liability Insurance
-
Employers’ Liability Insurance for all staff and subcontractors
-
Risk assessments conducted before work begins
-
Method statements and safety protocols for complex jobs
-
All team members NPTC qualified
-
Compliance with BS3998 tree work standards
We work cleanly, professionally, and with safety at the heart of everything we do — from private gardens to school grounds and commercial estates.
Are You Covered if Your Tree is Protected?
Many Hertfordshire properties fall under Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs), or are within conservation zones. If work is done illegally — even unknowingly — you could face fines of up to £20,000.
We always check with local authorities before removing or reducing any protected trees. Our insurance, planning knowledge, and admin processes protect you from legal risk.
How to Check If Your Tree Surgeon Is Insured
Ask your contractor directly. Any reputable tree surgery business will be happy to provide:
-
A valid insurance certificate
-
Proof of qualifications (NPTC / LANTRA / City & Guilds)
-
References or recent reviews
-
Confirmation of compliance with local tree laws
If they hesitate, walk away.
Peace of Mind, Guaranteed
At Forestwood Services, insurance isn’t just a formality — it’s part of how we protect our clients, staff, and the environment. We’ve been trusted by hundreds of Hertfordshire homeowners because we take every precaution seriously.
📞 Need safe, insured tree work? Call Forestwood today on 01462 440338
📩 Request a free insured quote: Submit Form
Write a Comment