What to Ask a Tree Removal Service Before Hiring Them in Reno?
Hiring a tree removal service is not like booking a lawn mowing. You are dealing with heavy equipment, significant liability, and a job that—done wrong—can damage your roof, your neighbor’s fence, or an underground utility line. Reno has no shortage of tree companies, but the questions you ask before signing anything will tell you more than any online listing.
Here is what to ask, and why each question actually matters.
Are You Licensed Through the Nevada Contractors Board?
Tree removal in Nevada that involves structural work or exceeds certain dollar thresholds requires a contractor’s license. The Nevada State Contractors Board maintains a public lookup tool where you can verify a license in under two minutes. Ask for the license number and check it yourself. Some operations in Reno run without one, particularly smaller outfits that appeared after a big windstorm. A valid license means the company has met minimum competency standards and carries a bond—both of which protect you if something goes wrong.
Do You Carry Liability Insurance and Workers’ Compensation?
Ask for the certificate of insurance directly, not just a verbal yes. You want to see a general liability policy—ideally $1 million per occurrence or more—and a workers’ compensation policy covering every employee on the job. Nevada law requires workers’ comp for most employers with one or more employees, per Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 616A. If a worker gets hurt on your property and the company lacks coverage, you can be held responsible. Request that the insurer send the certificate directly to you, not just a copy the company hands over.
Is Anyone on Your Crew a Certified Arborist?
Licensing covers legal permission to operate. Certification covers actual knowledge of trees. The International Society of Arboriculture offers a Certified Arborist credential that requires passing a written exam and continuing education. Not every job requires an ISA-certified arborist, but for complex removals near structures, or when you want a second opinion on whether a tree even needs to come down, having one on the crew matters. You can verify credentials directly on the ISA website by name.
What Does Your Removal Process Look Like for This Specific Tree?
This question separates experienced crews from inexperienced ones fast. A competent company will walk your property, look at the tree’s lean, the root zone, what is within the drop radius, and where their equipment can position. For Reno properties near established neighborhoods—think South Meadows, Caughlin Ranch, or older streets near the Truckee River—tight lot lines and overhead power lines create real complications. Ask specifically how they plan to protect your structures, your neighbors’ property, and any hardscaping. If the answer is vague, that is worth noting.
Who Contacts the Utility Companies Before Digging?
Stump removal services involve grinding below grade, and Nevada 811 requires that underground utilities be located before any digging begins. Under Nevada law, you must call 811 at least three business days before excavation. A professional company should handle this as standard procedure. If you ask and they look confused, move on.
What Does the Written Quote Include—and Exclude?
Get the quote in writing and read it line by line. Does it include stump removal, or does that cost extra? Who hauls away the wood and brush? Is there a fee if the job requires a crane or aerial lift? Some Reno jobs near steep grades or large pine canopies need specialized rigging. Knowing the total cost upfront prevents invoice surprises. The National Association of Landscape Professionals recommends getting at least two written estimates for any removal job exceeding $1,000.
How Do You Handle Emergency Tree Removal?
High winds in the Reno area—particularly through the Sierra Nevada passes—knock trees onto roofs and block driveways with real regularity. Ask whether the company offers emergency tree removal and what the response window looks like. Some companies advertise 24-hour service but realistically cannot reach you for 12 hours during a storm. Clarifying this before you have an emergency is far better than scrambling at midnight.
Can You Provide Local References?
Not online reviews—actual references you can call. A company that has done solid residential tree service or commercial tree service in the area for years will have past clients willing to talk. Check their client reviews and, if they cannot provide a single local name, take that seriously.
American Lawn and Landscaping LLC offers professional arborist services, residential tree service, stump removal services, and emergency tree removal throughout the Reno area. Our team is licensed, insured, and familiar with the specific tree species and lot conditions common across northern Nevada—from mature ponderosa pines to ornamental trees in established residential neighborhoods. We also handle residential landscaping and spring and fall cleanup if you want ongoing property care after a removal.
Ready to get answers to all of these questions in one conversation? Call us at (775) 618-6801, contact us online, or stop by our Reno office to schedule an on-site estimate.