Choosing a Consulting Arborist

If you require advice about a tree or trees on your property, it is advisable to find a qualified arborist who can provide a professional, independent and objective assessment. This is particularly important if your situation involves the need for a tree report, development work around trees or a dispute over a tree matter.

Consulting Arborist Society members are recognised and respected tree specialists who have been accredited by the Arboricultural Association for their expertise in specific areas of Treework. They have years of practical experience as arborists undertaking tree work and can offer you expert advice on all matters relating to trees, and the issues surrounding them.

A Consulting Arborist is at the apex of the arboriculture profession, the most highly experienced and best equipped to undertake more complex tasks than a Commercial Arborist who is primarily a tradesman and will perform hands on tree work. They will typically be contracted to work for developers, councils, local authorities and other clients on a consultancy basis to complete jobs such as comprehensive tree assessments, planning and development investigations, legal disputes, risk assessment and tree management plans.

Many reputable consulting arborists have design qualifications and are also capable of suggesting landscape and construction solutions that achieve the desired aesthetic results whilst preserving the integrity of the surrounding trees. The ability to reach a win-win outcome for all parties involved is often required, such as negotiating with councils, neighbours and developers to preserve valuable trees in urban and rural areas where space is limited.

When choosing a consulting arborist, ask to see their insurance certificates. This will ensure you are hiring a fully insured and qualified company to carry out any tree work on your property. They should have public liability and workers compensation insurance, as well as being a member of a relevant industry body. It is also a good idea to get multiple quotes before hiring someone, and to visit previous work sites they have completed.

While you may be tempted to go with the lowest bid, remember that the quality of work performed by your arborist will reflect on their reputation, and yours too. It’s worth investing a little more time, effort and money in finding the right consultant to protect your valuable investment.

Using a certified and registered Consulting Arborist with extensive experience in the areas you need is the best way to get the most accurate information to help you with your decision making. Look for an RCA (Registered Consulting Arborist) who has the highest credentials from the American Society of Consulting Arborists. This is an apex credential and signifies the commitment of those who have earned it to the advancement of the arboricultural industry through objective assessment of trees and community enhancement. A RCA has completed the ASCA’s Consulting Academy, passed an examination and demonstrated a level of technical report writing competence. They must also commit to the Standards of Practice as denoted by ASCA and meet Continuing Education requirements to retain their registration.

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