How to Choose the Right Arborist in Calgary
Trees are among the most valuable assets on your property. They provide shade, improve curb appeal, and increase home value—but they also require expert care to stay healthy and safe. Choosing the right arborist is one of the most important decisions a Calgary homeowner can make when it comes to tree care.
With so many options available, how do you know who to trust? The key is to look beyond price and focus on qualifications, safety, and professionalism.
Start with ISA Certification
The most important step is to confirm that the arborist is ISA Certified. The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is the global leader in arboricultural standards, and certification demonstrates that an arborist has:
Passed rigorous testing on tree biology, safety, and best practices.
Committed to ongoing education and professional development.
Agreed to uphold ethical standards in tree care.
When considering an arborist, ask for their ISA registration number. Reputable professionals will gladly provide it, and you can verify certification through the ISA website. Hiring uncertified contractors often leads to improper pruning, unsafe removals, and long-term damage to your trees.
Verify Insurance Coverage
Tree care is one of the most dangerous professions in the world. Arborists work at height, with chainsaws, near power lines, and around thousands of pounds of unpredictable weight. Accidents, while rare with trained professionals, can happen.
That’s why insurance matters. Always confirm that the arborist carries both:
Liability Insurance – Protects your property and your neighbor’s in case of accidental damage.
Workers’ Compensation – Protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property.
Never hire a contractor who cannot provide proof of current insurance coverage. Without it, you could be held responsible for medical costs, lost wages, or property repairs.
Ask for References and Reviews
A trustworthy arborist will have a proven track record. Ask for references from recent clients, or check online reviews on platforms like Google or Better Business Bureau listings. Look for consistent praise around professionalism, safety, and clear communication.
Red flags include:
No online presence or verifiable business information.
Vague or defensive answers when asked for references.
Consistently low prices compared to other quotes.
A strong reputation is often the best indicator of reliable service.
Evaluate Their Communication
The best arborists don’t just show up with a chainsaw—they explain their process and recommendations. When you meet with a potential arborist, pay attention to how they answer your questions.
Look for professionals who:
Clearly explain why a tree needs pruning, treatment, or removal.
Provide written estimates with detailed services listed.
Offer alternatives, such as cabling or pruning, before recommending removal.
Avoid anyone who brushes off your concerns or gives quick, vague answers. Good arborists view tree care as a partnership with the homeowner.
Watch Out for Red Flags
Unfortunately, not all “tree services” operate with professionalism. Be cautious of anyone who:
Suggests topping trees to reduce height—this harmful practice creates weak regrowth and shortens lifespan.
Encourages you to handle dangerous tasks yourself to “save money.”
Pressures you into quick decisions without proper evaluation.
Shows up unsolicited after a storm offering “cheap cleanup.”
These are signs of corner-cutting or, in some cases, outright scams. Protect yourself by doing your homework.
Don’t Choose Based on Price Alone
It’s natural to compare quotes, but price should never be the only deciding factor. The lowest bid often reflects shortcuts in training, safety, equipment, or insurance coverage. While you might save a few dollars upfront, the long-term costs can be much higher if poor work leads to property damage or declining tree health.
Remember: tree care is an investment in both your property and your safety. It’s worth paying a fair price for professional work backed by credentials and insurance.
Benefits of Choosing the Right Arborist
When you hire a qualified, insured arborist, you gain more than tree work—you gain peace of mind. The benefits include:
Healthier Trees – Proper pruning, diagnosis, and treatments keep trees strong for decades.
Reduced Risks – Hazardous branches or trees are addressed safely before they cause damage.
Legal Compliance – Arborists understand and follow Calgary bylaws, such as elm pruning restrictions.
Insurance Protection – You’re not financially liable if something goes wrong.
Professional Results – Work is completed to international standards, preserving your trees’ natural beauty.
Choosing wisely protects both your investment and your family.
The Bottom Line: Professionalism Pays Off
Trees are living investments that add shade, beauty, and financial value to your Calgary property. But they require skilled care to remain assets instead of liabilities.
The right arborist will be ISA Certified, fully insured, transparent, and backed by strong references. The wrong one may leave you with damaged trees, financial risks, or unsafe conditions.
When it comes to tree care, cutting corners isn’t worth it. By hiring the right arborist, you ensure healthier trees, safer property, and complete peace of mind knowing the job is done professionally.
