When the time comes to remove some limbs from your tree, you need to consider the cost of hiring an arborist or tree doctor. Typically, you can pay $130, although some estimates could be as low as $60 and as high as $750. So, what drives the cost upward or downward?

Before we dive into the factors that could influence the final cost, consider checking out a comprehensive list of Rich’s Tree Service, Inc services to find how the firm can meet your tree care needs. Without further ado, let’s dive right into it.

1. The Company You Hire

Every tree business has its unique way of doing things, just like any other enterprise. After all, no two companies are created equal: overheads, place of operation, number of employees- the list goes on- vary from business to business. Still, it might take one firm less time to do the same job. Yet the costs could be lower compared to a different business that may charge up to twice as much. In short, costs tend to vary wildly, depending on the firm you hire.

Other than that, some companies may charge by the hour, which may not be a standard rate for the industry. But generally, most firms set the price for the job at hand- be it for removing one or multiple branches. Due to this, there’s no surefire way to establish how much you’re likely to pay.

2. Tree Species

As far as tree branches go, size matters a lot. Essentially, the size and volume of a tree branch are closely linked to the tree species. For instance, pine trees can grow up to 90 feet tall. If the removal service has to get high up to access a branch with a small volume, the cost is likely to be high.

On the contrary, cutting a thicker and longer branch a few meters off the ground would be easier and less expensive on your part. Going by the size, the average cost of removing a branch is:

  • $120 for small branches
  • $250- $300 for medium branches
  • $750 for large branches

Ideally, large branch removal is best left to a trained, experienced, and equipped arborist who can handle the job safely and efficiently. There’s no point risking life and limb by attempting to do it yourself. Branch removal is risky and could land you in the ER, an experience anyone would be keen to avoid.

3. Number of Branches

Needless to say, what you pay depends on the number of branches you plan to have removed- the higher the number, the more you’ll end up paying. Does that mean you should plan to pay double or triple for two or three branches? Not on any account. A tree service mostly charges depending on the nature of the job, which implies the cost will be higher for cutting multiple branches, but not by a significant margin.

4. Obstacles

Typically, how difficult it is to access or remove a tree branch influences the overall cost. For instance, if a branch extends out over a structure or power line, it could pose challenges for the cutting crew.

Also, the condition of the branch matters. If the said branch is dry, leaning, or rotten- nearly at its breaking point- its removal could be difficult, especially if it’s not easily accessible. It would also mean a tree doctor would have to exercise care and use extra resources such as ground crew or ropes to get the job done. Other potential issues could include:

  • Dealing with inclined property
  • Muddy or rocky terrain
  • Limited working room due to adjacent branches or trees
  • Limited space to fell the branch

5. Urgency

Overhanging tree branches can quickly become a hazard. For instance, if an infected branch extends out over a power line, it could potentially fall, start a fire, or damage the power line or your property.

If you find yourself in such a pickle, consider seeking emergency branch removal services. And while at it, expect to pay a premium. It’s tough to provide an estimate because, as we said, each firm is different, and the job’s complexity varies.

To avoid excessive charges or being charged whatever the branch removal firm deems fit, take preventive measures by addressing a potential issue well before it spirals. If the issue isn’t urgent, it’s best to schedule branch removal to keep costs low during the offseason.

On the whole, you can mitigate some of these factors by asking for multiple quotes and removing obstacles to enhance access to the worksite. By so doing, you would lower removal costs. But as you’ve noted, costs vary due to many aspects. All the same, Rich’s Tree Service is a firm you can count on if you need quality tree services.