How to Choose the Right Arborist in Calgary
Hiring the right arborist can be the difference between excellent long-term tree health and costly damage. Tree work is highly skilled, physically demanding, and potentially dangerous — which means choosing a qualified professional is essential. In Calgary’s extreme climate, trees must withstand strong winds, rapid freeze-thaw cycles, drought, heavy snow, and unpredictable chinooks. Because of this, homeowners need an arborist with technical skill and an understanding of local environmental demands.
Not all tree service providers are equal. Many companies advertise as arborists, but only a portion have proper training, certification, insurance, and safety practices. This guide explains exactly what to look for when hiring a professional and how to make a safe, informed choice.
Start by Looking for ISA Certification
The most important qualification when choosing an arborist is certification through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). ISA certification proves the arborist has completed formal testing in tree biology, pruning standards, safety practices, and proper tree care. Certified arborists must also complete continuing education to stay current with industry standards.
Why ISA certification matters:
Ensures knowledge of proper pruning and tree biology
Guarantees professional training in safety procedures
Confirms experience and competency
Indicates legitimate industry involvement
Protects against harmful practices like topping
If a company does not employ ISA-certified arborists, they should not be trusted with your trees.
Check for TRAQ Certification for Risk Assessments
If you are concerned about tree stability, leaning, cracking, or storm damage, you need a TRAQ-certified arborist. TRAQ (Tree Risk Assessment Qualification) indicates specialized training in structural evaluation, decay identification, risk analysis, and hazard mitigation.
TRAQ-certified arborists can:
Identify hidden structural defects
Evaluate risk levels accurately
Determine when pruning or removal is required
Provide written assessments for insurance or real estate purposes
For dangerous or questionable trees, TRAQ certification is essential.
Ensure the Arborist Is Properly Insured
Tree work is dangerous. A company working on your property must carry:
Commercial liability insurance
Workers’ compensation coverage
Full safety compliance for climbing and rigging
Without proper coverage, homeowners may be financially responsible if an accident occurs. Always request proof of insurance before hiring an arborist. Professionals will provide it immediately.
Ask About Their Safety Standards and Equipment
Professional arborists follow strict safety procedures and use proper equipment. A reputable Calgary arborist will use:
Climbing harnesses and fall-protection gear
Ropes, friction devices, and rigging systems
Protective helmets, eyewear, and chainsaw-resistant gear
Certified chainsaws and maintenance tools
A company that shows up with basic ladders and consumer-grade chainsaws is not operating safely.
Professional equipment reduces risk, improves efficiency, and ensures the work is completed without property damage.
Request a Detailed Quote and Clear Explanation
A trustworthy arborist will always provide:
A detailed written quote
A clear description of work being performed
An explanation of why that work is necessary
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Avoid tree services that give vague quotes or push unnecessary removals. A professional will focus on long-term tree health, not quick profits.
Beware of Extremely Low Prices
Extremely low prices often signal:
Lack of certification
No insurance coverage
Unsafe work practices
Poor pruning methods
Rushed or incomplete work
Hidden fees and extra charges later
Cheap work can lead to bark tearing, improper cuts, topping, or structural imbalance — issues that can cost far more in the long run.
Affordable tree care is possible, but extremely low prices almost always indicate risk.
Ask About Their Knowledge of Calgary’s Climate and Bylaws
Proper tree care in Calgary requires local experience. An arborist should understand:
Alberta’s elm pruning ban (April 1–Sept 30)
Local species such as spruce, pine, poplar, maple, birch, ash, and elm
Chinook-related bark cracking and freeze-thaw impacts
Common Calgary pests and diseases
Soil and watering challenges specific to the city
Bylaws related to tree removals and property lines
Local expertise ensures the arborist knows when and how to prune each species correctly.
Evaluate Communication and Professionalism
Professional arborists communicate clearly, arrive on time, respect property boundaries, and answer questions thoroughly. They should explain:
What they see happening in the tree
Why they recommend specific work
How the process will be completed
What results you should expect
Clear communication shows respect, accountability, and transparency.
Why Calgary Tree Care Is a Trusted Choice
Calgary Tree Care provides certified, ethical, and safety-focused tree care. Our team includes ISA-certified arborists, TRAQ-certified assessors, and experienced climbers who understand Calgary’s climate, species challenges, and urban environment.
Homeowners choose our team because we offer:
ISA and TRAQ certification
Full insurance and safety compliance
Transparent pricing and honest recommendations
Proper pruning, safe removals, and root care
Detailed, reliable assessments
Clean, respectful, efficient service
We combine technical expertise with a commitment to integrity.
Book a Consultation with a Certified Arborist
Choosing the right arborist protects your property, your trees, and your long-term landscape value. If you want expert guidance, accurate assessments, and professional service backed by certification, Calgary Tree Care is ready to help.
Contact us today for a free consultation and quote. Let our certified team provide tree care you can trust.
