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Choosing the right arborist can make all the difference between a quick tree job and a long-term investment in your landscape’s health. Edmonton has no shortage of tree service companies—but not all are the same. Some focus on volume and price, while others, like City Tree Service, focus on safety, expertise, and preservation.

Key Factors to Consider

Below are key factors to consider when choosing the right arborist for your property.

1. Look for Certification and Experience

Always start by checking for ISA-certified arborists. Certification ensures the person caring for your trees has proven knowledge of tree biology, safety, and proper pruning techniques. Experience also matters—trees in Edmonton’s climate face unique challenges like harsh winters, clay soils, and diseases such as black knot (Apiosporina morbosa) and cytospora canker (Cytospora chrysosperma (Pers.) Fr.).

Tip: Ask who will actually perform the work. Some companies send salespeople or “quoters” rather than trained arborists.

2. Ask About Site Visits and Assessments

While photos can help us diagnose problems or prescribe solutions, reputable arborists will want to see most trees in person before quoting. At City Tree Service, clients often tell us we’re the only company that actually came out to look at their tree. Many competitors quote based on their assumptions without properly assessing health, structure, or site safety.

If possible, meet the arborist on site or discuss your needs over the phone. You’ll quickly get a sense of whether they understand what you’re looking for.

3. Compare More Than Just Price

When comparing quotes, remember: tree work isn’t a standardised service. One company’s quote might involve a light trim, while another’s could include a full structural pruning and debris removal. The prices will be different because the scope of work is different.

For tree removal, pricing is more straightforward—but for pruning or maintenance, the scope of work can vary widely. Always ask what’s included and make sure you’re comparing like-for-like.

4. Check Reviews and Reputation

A company’s reputation says a lot about its values. Look for consistent feedback on professionalism, cleanup, and communication—not just price.

We find that reviews help us choose our own service providers because they show hundreds of client experiences, which can be more trustworthy than the company’s website.

5. Understand the Company’s Philosophy

Many tree service businesses are run by managers who aren’t arborists themselves—they focus on logistics and volume. City Tree Service was founded by arborists and tree lovers.

We believe in the stewardship of Edmonton’s urban forest, maintaining urban forest whenever and wherever possible. We hire people who share that mindset—skilled professionals who care deeply about doing the right work for both clients and the environment.

6. Ask the Right Questions

Before you hire, here are a few smart questions to ask:

Are your arborists ISA-certified and fully insured?
Will you visit the site before quoting?
What exactly is included in your quote?
How will my property be protected during the work?
What aftercare or follow-up do you provide?

A good arborist will welcome these questions and answer them clearly.

Frequently Asked Questions

ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certification means that an arborist has passed exams and proven experience in proper tree care practices, safety, and ethics.
Yes. Comparing quotes helps you to understand market rates and identify which companies offer real expertise versus low-cost shortcuts.
Timing of pruning and/or tree removal can depend on species, bylaw, and your specific needs. Contact us to discuss your situation.
Some companies offer free assessments, while others charge a small fee that’s often credited toward future work.

The Bottom Line

Choosing an arborist is about trust, not just cost. We enjoy building professional relationships with our clients. Look for certification, clear communication, and a genuine understanding of tree health and preservation. When you work with City Tree Service, you’re partnering with professionals who care about Edmonton’s urban forest as much as your property.

Request a free tree assessment

📞 Call: 780 271 8733
📧 Email: info@citytree.ca