Hiring a tree removal service: what to ask, what to avoid
Two tree removal quotes for the “same” job often aren't the same job at all — the gap is usually scope: what's included, what's billed as an extra, and what you confirmed before you booked. Here's how to tell a fair deal from an expensive one, grounded in real pricing data.
The one that catches most people out
Not checking council regulations
Many trees are protected. Removing without approval can result in $100,000+ fines.
Questions to ask a tree removal service
Most overcharging hides in the scope, not the headline price. These pin it down before you commit.
- 1
Does your quote include stump grinding, or is that extra?
If it's extra, expect around $200–$600.
- 2
Is arborist report part of the price, or charged separately?
If it's extra, expect around $300–$800.
- 3
Will I be charged extra for crane hire?
If it's extra, expect around $2,000–$5,000.
- 4
Is traffic control included, or an add-on?
If it's extra, expect around $500–$2,000/day.
- 5
Can you put the full scope and the final price in writing before any work starts?
Scope disputes are the single most common complaint. A written list is what protects you.
- 6
Is GST included in the price you have quoted?
A sole trader under $75k turnover can legally leave GST off, which makes a quote look about 10% cheaper than a registered business for the same work.
Three checks that take five minutes
Check the licence
For licensed trades, ask for the licence number and confirm it on your state's fair-trading or licensing site before you book. Unlicensed work can void your insurance.
Confirm they're insured
Public liability cover protects you if something gets damaged on the job. If an operator can't confirm it, that's a red flag.
Insist on a written quote
A fair quote itemises the scope, names what's excluded, and states whether GST is included. Verbal quotes are where disputes start.
Other mistakes worth avoiding
Cheapest quote without insurance check
Tree work is high-risk. Uninsured operators leave you liable for property damage.
What's usually included, and what costs extra
Usually included
- ✓Felling/sectional removal
- ✓Basic clean-up
- ✓Chip branches on site
Usually charged extra
- +Stump grinding · $200–$600
- +Arborist report · $300–$800
- +Crane hire · $2,000–$5,000
- +Traffic control · $500–$2,000/day
- +Council permits
- +Root removal
What pushes the price up: tree height and diameter, proximity to structures/power lines, access for equipment, crane requirement, traffic control needed, council permit required.
Tree Removal questions, answered
Do I need council permission?+
How long does it take?+
Already have a quote?
Check it against real tree removal prices in 30 seconds, then walk in knowing exactly what to ask.