How to Choose a Tree Removal Service in Sydney

Not all tree removal operators are equal. Here is how to find a qualified, insured arborist who will do the job safely and professionally.

Essential Qualifications

Certificate III in Arboriculture (Minimum)

The minimum qualification for professional tree work in Australia. This covers safe chainsaw operation, climbing, pruning and removal techniques. The current qualification code is AHC30820. Ask to see the certificate before hiring.

SafeWork NSW Licences

Operators using chainsaws, elevated work platforms or cranes should hold the relevant SafeWork NSW high risk work licences. This is a legal requirement, not optional.

Workers Compensation Insurance

Any business with employees in NSW must have workers compensation insurance. If an uninsured worker is injured on your property, you may be held liable. Sole traders are exempt but should have personal accident cover.

Insurance Requirements

Public Liability Insurance

Look for a minimum of $10 million in public liability cover. This protects you if the arborist damages your property, a neighbour property, vehicles or other assets during the work. Many reputable companies carry $20 million.

Ask for a current certificate of currency. It should show the policy is active and specifically covers tree removal and arboricultural work.

What Insurance Covers

✓Damage to your property (fences, buildings, driveways)
✓Damage to neighbour properties
✓Personal injury to third parties
✓Damage to underground services

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

1."Can I see your Certificate III in Arboriculture or higher qualification?"
2."Do you have current public liability insurance of at least $10 million? Can I see the certificate of currency?"
3."Do you have workers compensation insurance for your team?"
4."Is stump grinding included in the quote, or is it an additional cost?"
5."Is green waste removal included?"
6."Will you handle the council permit application, or do I need to do that separately?"
7."What is your estimated timeline for completing the work?"
8."Can you provide references from recent jobs in my area?"

Red Flags to Watch For

No Written Quote

A verbal quote with no written documentation is a warning sign. Professional arborists provide detailed written quotes specifying the scope of work, inclusions, exclusions and total cost.

Cash Only, No ABN

Operators who only accept cash and cannot provide an ABN or tax invoice may be operating illegally. Without an ABN, they are unlikely to have proper insurance or qualifications.

Door-to-Door Solicitation

Be cautious of operators who knock on your door offering to remove trees cheaply. While not all door knockers are disreputable, this approach is commonly used by unqualified operators without proper insurance.

Significantly Below-Market Pricing

If a quote is dramatically lower than others, the operator may be cutting corners on safety, insurance, or intends to dump green waste illegally. Professional tree removal has real costs for equipment, insurance and qualified labour.

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Tree Removal Service Tree Removal Cost Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

At minimum, a tree removal professional should hold an AQF Certificate III in Arboriculture (AHC30820 or equivalent). This qualification covers safe tree removal, pruning, climbing and chainsaw operation. For arborist reports and assessments, look for an AQF Level 5 Diploma. Additionally, operators should hold a current SafeWork NSW high risk work licence for chainsaw and EWP operation.

A reputable tree removal company should carry a minimum of $10 million in public liability insurance. This protects you if the arborist causes damage to your property, a neighbour property, or injures someone during the work. Ask to see a current certificate of currency before work begins. Some larger jobs or commercial properties may require $20 million.

We recommend getting at least 3 quotes from different qualified arborists. This gives you a good range of pricing and allows you to compare approaches. Be wary of quotes that are significantly lower than the others, as this may indicate the operator lacks proper insurance, qualifications or intends to cut corners.

Not necessarily. The cheapest quote may not include stump grinding, green waste removal, or council permit application assistance. It may also come from an operator without adequate insurance or qualifications. Compare quotes on a like-for-like basis, including what is covered, the arborist qualifications, and their insurance level.

A professional tree removal quote should specify: the trees to be removed (with species and location), the removal method, whether stump grinding is included, green waste disposal, any access requirements, the estimated timeline, the arborist qualifications, insurance details, and any exclusions such as council permit fees or replacement planting.