How to Choose the Right Tree Company – 7 Red Flags to Avoid

Brandon Meier
Jul 8
2 min read

Choosing a tree service company is a big decision. Trees are valuable assets that need proper care, and poor workmanship can lead to costly damage or safety hazards. At Tree Service Flower Mound, we want to help you avoid mistakes by highlighting 7 red flags that should make you think twice before hiring a tree company.

1. Lack of Proper Insurance

Tree work is risky. If a company isn’t fully insured—including general liability and workers’ compensation—you could be liable for accidents or property damage. Always ask for proof of insurance before hiring.

2. No Industry Certifications or Training

Certified arborists have specialized training in tree biology, safety, and industry standards like ANSI A300 and Z133. Avoid companies that don’t have qualified arborists or don’t follow these safety guidelines.

3. Poor Communication or No Written Estimates

Professional companies provide clear, written estimates outlining the scope of work and pricing. If a company avoids written quotes or is slow to respond, that’s a red flag.

4. Using Dangerous or Outdated Techniques — Especially with Cabling

Some companies offer tree cabling to “support” weak branches, but this is often done incorrectly and can cause more harm than good.

At Tree Service Flower Mound, we do not offer cabling because it is a dangerous practice when done improperly. Correct cabling requires:

Exact knowledge of attachment points to avoid causing rot or decay in the tree
Installation that provides support without creating dependency — meaning the tree can eventually support itself
Expertise to avoid weakening the tree further or creating hazards

When cabling creates dependency, the tree leans on the hardware instead of building natural strength. Over time, this can lead to branch failure or structural issues, increasing safety risks.

Instead of cabling, we recommend professional pruning and removal of hazardous limbs or trees to ensure long-term tree health and safety.

5. Unclear or No Cleanup Policy

Tree care can be messy, but reputable companies always include cleanup in their service. If a company doesn’t clearly state they’ll remove debris and leave your property tidy, expect a frustrating experience.

6. Lack of Local Experience

Tree species and climate vary regionally. Companies unfamiliar with North Texas trees may not provide the best care or know local hazards. Choose a company with proven local experience, like Tree Service Flower Mound.

7. Pressure to Upsell Unnecessary Services

Beware of companies pushing expensive treatments, topping, or excessive work you don’t need. A trusted arborist will recommend only what benefits your trees and property.

🏡 Choose Tree Service Flower Mound for Safe, Honest Tree Care

At Tree Service Flower Mound, we combine local knowledge, certified expertise, and honest communication to protect your trees and property.

We prioritize safety, quality, and transparency—never cutting corners or using risky techniques like improper cabling.