Is it expensive to remove a tree, how can I save money on tree removal?

As wonderful as it is having trees in your garden, it isn’t always smiles and snuggles. In fact, there are certain species of tree that can be an absolute nightmare to look after. As beautiful as something is, if it is causing you more trouble than it is bringing you joy, then it might be time to have it removed.

But of course, there are many reasons to want to have a tree removed. Perhaps it is perfectly healthy and you simply want to create more room for a construction project; or it could be a simple case of aesthetics. Whatever your reasons, if you need a tree removing, the odds are you’ll want to save as much money as possible.

So, is it expensive to remove a tree? And if so, what can you do to save money on having the tree removed? Let’s find out…

Is it expensive to remove a tree?

At a glance, yes, the cost of cutting down a tree is expensive. However, once you look at everything that is involved with the tree removal process, you’ll soon realise that it is actually one of the better priced services in Australia.

The average cost for removing a tree in Australia is around $500/$1000. However, this depends on a number of different factors. For example, removing a smaller tree (6m), you’ll likely end up having to spend around $500. Taller trees on the other hand (8m^) will be $1000 and beyond.

Other factors that can influence the price include:

• The danger factor
• Accessibility
• The type of equipment required
• Manpower
• Weather conditions

 

Why does tree removal cost so much?

At a glance, $1000 to remove a tree might seem a little extortionate (though it goes much higher). So, why is it typically priced like this?

• Expertise: First up, as with anything, when you pay a professional for their expertise it comes at a price. After all, they have spent years training and refining their craft so that they can carry out their duties with flawless precision.
• Danger: Cutting down trees is not a simple task. In fact, without the proper expertise and equipment, cutting down a tree can not only be incredibly dangerous for your property, but it can cause serious injury too. The risk factor is always reflected in the cost.
• Disposal: In addition to cutting the tree down, your arborist will be required to remove the tree from your property and dispose of the remains appropriately through the proper channels. This is another expense.
• Equipment: Some trees require a chainsaw, climbing equipment, and even an elevated work platform. In addition to that, you’ll likely want the stump removing afterwards which will require the transportation and utilisation of heavy specialist equipment. Please note that stump removal is almost always charged separately to the tree removal service.
• Manpower: Depending on the size of then tree, you may need multiple arborists working on the removal process together.

 

How can I save money on tree removal?

The best way to save money on tree removal is to simply do it yourself. However, this is not recommended, particularly if you’ve never had any experience with tree removal.

A quick search on YouTube and you’ll find countless videos of DIY tree removal gone wrong. You’ll find crushed cars and collapsed roofs (not to mention the stump removal fails)!

Another alternative is asking some friends on Facebook and hiring your mate’s mate who can borrow his neighbours chainsaw. Again, this is likely not the best approach. Even if they claim to have experience, without the correct certification and insurance you are putting yourself and your property at great risk.

Take it from us: if you want a tree removing without incident, your best bet is to hire the experts to take care of it for you.

So, how can you save money on the tree removal process?

• Shop around: If you want to make sure that you are getting the best possible deal, then take your time and shop around. Be wary though; going for the cheapest option isn’t necessarily the best option.
• Negotiate: You won’t always succeed, but you could try negotiating on price? Or you could ask for a package deal of sorts? Perhaps you could do with some of the other trees on your property pruning or cutting back? There’s no harm in asking!
• Make sure there is easy access to the tree: If a tree is difficult to reach (particularly if heavy equipment is needed), then this will likely drive the cost up. Do your utmost to ensure that your local arborists will have clear and unobstructed access to the tree that needs removing.
• Wait for the off-season: Having your tree removed in the height of the peak season is not the best bet if you want to save as much money as you can. If you aren’t desperate and can hold off for a few months, try waiting for the off-season when the service is likely to be cheaper.
• Consult your local council: It is unlikely, but if you need your tree removing because it is posing a hazard, you might be able to have the council to come and remove the tree for you. It does really depend on a number of circumstantial factors, but it is worth a try.

Conclusion

And that about does it…yes tree removal can feel expensive, but in actuality the cost is justified given the scale of the job. Just make sure that you do some research, shop around, and you should have no trouble finding a reputable tree removal service that you will be satisfied with. Good luck!