The Dangers of Hiring Uninsured Tree Services
Tree care is not a simple weekend project. It’s one of the most dangerous professions in the world, involving heavy equipment, climbing at heights, and unpredictable weight shifts. Yet many homeowners, hoping to save money, hire the cheapest contractor they can find. Unfortunately, this decision often leads to damaged property, financial liability, or unsafe tree work that shortens a tree’s lifespan.
When it comes to tree care in Calgary, hiring an ISA Certified Arborist with proper insurance coverage isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
The Risks of Hiring Uninsured Contractors
Hiring an uninsured contractor may save a few dollars up front, but it exposes homeowners to serious risks.
Property Damage – Without training and proper equipment, unqualified workers often make dangerous cuts that send heavy limbs crashing onto roofs, decks, fences, or vehicles. If they damage your property or your neighbor’s, you may be stuck covering the repair costs yourself.
Personal Liability – If an uninsured worker is injured on your property, you could be held responsible for their medical bills, lost wages, and even legal fees. Tree work accidents can be severe, including falls, chainsaw injuries, or electrocution from power lines.
Improper Workmanship – Untrained workers often resort to harmful practices such as “topping,” over-pruning, or cutting roots. These mistakes weaken trees, shorten their lifespan, and create hazards in the years ahead.
Bylaw Violations – Calgary enforces specific tree care regulations, such as prohibiting elm pruning between April 1 and September 30 to prevent Dutch Elm Disease. Contractors who ignore these rules can leave you facing fines or city enforcement action.
What looks like a bargain often ends up being far more expensive—both financially and in terms of safety.
Why Certification and Insurance Matter
Working with an ISA Certified Arborist ensures you’re hiring someone with professional training, accountability, and a commitment to safety. Here’s why it matters:
ISA Certification – The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is a globally recognized organization that tests arborists on tree biology, safety standards, and proper care techniques. Certified arborists are required to keep up with ongoing education, ensuring they stay current with the latest practices.
Liability Insurance – Protects you financially if your property or your neighbor’s is damaged during tree work.
Workers’ Compensation – Ensures that if a worker is injured on your property, you are not held liable for their medical costs or lost income.
Compliance with Calgary Bylaws – Certified arborists understand and follow local laws regarding tree care, permits, and seasonal restrictions.
Proper Equipment and Safety Standards – Certified professionals use ropes, harnesses, rigging systems, and lifts to safely handle hazardous work that untrained contractors attempt with ladders and guesswork.
When you hire a certified and insured professional, you’re not just paying for tree care—you’re buying peace of mind.
What to Ask Before Hiring a Tree Service
To protect yourself, always ask contractors a few simple questions before agreeing to any work:
Are you ISA Certified? – Ask for their certification number, which you can verify through the ISA website.
Do you carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation? – Request proof of documentation, not just verbal assurance.
What safety standards do you follow? – Reputable arborists will reference ISA or ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards.
Can you provide references? – A trustworthy professional will be proud to share reviews from satisfied clients.
Are you familiar with Calgary bylaws? – This ensures your tree work complies with local regulations.
Reputable arborists will provide documentation willingly. If someone hesitates or avoids the question, that’s a red flag.
The True Cost of Cutting Corners
Consider this scenario: you hire an uninsured contractor for a bargain price to remove a large tree. During the job, a limb crashes onto your neighbor’s car, causing thousands of dollars in damage. A few minutes later, the worker slips from the tree, breaks his leg, and files a claim against you for medical costs and lost wages.
That “cheap” job just became the most expensive decision you’ve made for your property.
By contrast, hiring a Certified Arborist may cost more upfront, but it ensures the work is done safely, legally, and with full financial protection. It also guarantees the health of your trees is preserved, adding long-term value to your property.
Why Tree Care Is Never a DIY Job
Some homeowners consider tackling tree work themselves, but this is just as risky as hiring unqualified contractors. Chainsaw accidents, falls from ladders, and electrocution from power lines send thousands of people to emergency rooms every year. Without training, equipment, or insurance, DIY tree care is a gamble with safety and finances.
Professional arborists have the expertise to assess risks, control falling limbs, and perform precise cuts that strengthen trees rather than harm them.
Safety and Peace of Mind for Calgary Homeowners
Tree care is one of the most dangerous professions for good reason. It involves working at height, using powerful tools, and managing thousands of pounds of unpredictable weight.
Hiring an ISA Certified, insured arborist ensures your tree work is safe, legal, and financially protected. It’s not just an investment in your property—it’s an investment in your peace of mind.
Before hiring, always ask for proof of insurance and ISA certification. With the right professional, you can rest easy knowing your trees, your home, and your family are in safe hands.
