When a tree starts leaning toward your home, it’s easy to let panic take over with hasty decisions. Many homeowners wonder whether to call a tree removal company or an arborist when faced with a potentially dangerous tree. The difference between those two calls can mean saving a healthy tree, or losing it unnecessarily.
What Arborists Actually Do (and Why It Matters)
An arborist isn’t just a tree trimmer. They’re certified specialists that are specifically trained to understand the biology, structure, and safety of trees. When a tree appears risky, a professional arborist looks at the whole system: the roots, trunk stability, soil conditions, and canopy balance. This comprehensive view helps determine whether the tree truly poses a threat or can be safely supported.
According to the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), certified arborists must pass rigorous exams on tree care and adhere to a code of ethics that prioritizes safety and environmental health. They can diagnose root damage, diseases, or structural weaknesses that untrained eyes (and even some general tree removal crews) might miss.
If your goal is to preserve the tree, calling an arborist is the right move. They can often recommend pruning, bracing, or other measures to stabilize it, avoiding unnecessary removal.
City Regulations and Permits: What Homeowners Need to Know
In places like Atlanta, not every tree can legally be removed. Many cities classify certain species as “protected,” especially large, mature trees that contribute to the urban canopy. Cutting one down without permission can lead to fines or legal trouble.
A certified arborist can help you determine whether your tree falls under these protected categories. If it does, and removal is still necessary, they can assist in obtaining the proper city permits. That’s one reason many professional tree service companies in Atlanta keep certified arborists on staff: it ensures compliance with local law while keeping homeowners protected.
Before scheduling any major work, ask whether your service provider has a certified arborist available for inspection. It’s a small question that can save you thousands in penalties or unnecessary removal costs.
The Cost Factor: Why Cheaper Isn’t Always Better
Tree removal and pruning can be expensive, but for good reason. These jobs involve heavy equipment, climbing gear, and significant risk. Be wary of anyone offering prices that seem too good to be true, because they usually are. Unlicensed or uninsured contractors might skip safety protocols, lack proper liability coverage, or leave you responsible for damage if something goes wrong.
All TrustDALE certified tree service partners are fully licensed and insured, with at least one certified arborist on staff. That means you’re not only getting expert guidance, you’re also protected by the TrustDALE Make It Right Guarantee, which backs every verified service up to $10,000.
When the job involves something as valuable and potentially hazardous as a mature tree, that peace of mind is worth every penny.
Bottom Line: Call the Arborist First
If you have a tree that’s healthy but leaning, or you’re simply unsure about its safety, an arborist should be your first call. They’ll tell you whether the tree can be saved, what risks exist, and what legal steps (if any) are required before removal. Once you know the facts, you can make an informed decision that protects both your home and your landscape.
When it’s time to bring in a pro, TrustDALE’s certified tree service partners make it simple to find qualified experts who will get the job done right and stand behind their work.