Key takeaways
- Each tree and each task should be named.
- Stump grinding, hauling and cleanup are separate lines that may or may not be in the total.
- Proof of insurance and the business license belong with the estimate.
- Compare scope before price.
- Questions before you agree are normal.
Battle Born Tree Service says every estimate is detailed and easy to understand, and tailored to each client's needs. Whatever company you call, use this list to see whether the estimate you were handed is really that clear.
What lines should an estimate have?
It should name the property, the tree or trees, the type of work and what is included. If any of these is missing, ask for it before you agree.
Battle Born's estimates are free and tailored to each client. Use the checklist for any company, including us.
- Your address and which tree on the property.
- The work: removal, pruning type, how much live wood comes off.
- Stump: ground, left or priced separately.
- Cleanup: chipping, hauling, wood left or taken.
- Equipment: climbing, lift, crane.
- Business name, license and proof of insurance.
What is usually left out?
Stump grinding, wood hauling and permit handling are the items most often missing. Nobody wants a surprise at the end, so ask about each one by name.
If your tree is in a city right-of-way or the Lake Tahoe Basin, ask who handles the approval. See the permit guide. A tree near a power line adds the utility to the job, as explained in trees and power lines.
How do you compare two estimates?
Line up the scope first, then compare totals. A lower number that skips stump grinding and cleanup may cost you more in the end.
The ISA advises getting more than one estimate and not always accepting the lowest bid, and says to compare credentials, written specifications and professionalism along with price.
- Make a list of the work you want.
- Check each estimate against the list.
- Note which items are missing.
- Ask each company to quote the missing items.
- Then compare totals.
What should you ask about insurance and credentials?
Ask for proof of insurance and confirm it with the insurer. Ask who the certified arborist is and verify the number.
See what to ask for and how to verify an arborist.
What if one quote is far lower than the others?
Ask what it leaves out. It may skip stump grinding, hauling or the equipment the tree really needs, or the crew may plan to cut corners that matter.
A clear answer is a good sign. A vague one is a reason to keep comparing. Never accept a lower number if it means skipping insurance.
What does a clear estimate look like in practice?
Imagine two estimates for the same backyard tree. One says 'remove tree' and a number. The other names the tree, says it will be taken down in sections, states that the wood is chipped and hauled, and says the stump is not included. The second one tells you exactly where you stand, even if the number is the same.
That is the standard to ask for. If you do not understand a line, say so before the work starts. Battle Born's own wording is that every estimate should be detailed and easily understood, and that standard is fair to expect from anyone.
Who should be at the estimate visit?
Ideally the person who will decide how the work is done. Battle Born says a certified arborist assesses every job before work begins. Ask whoever visits whether they will be on site, and who will lead the crew.
Walk the property with them. Point out gates, sprinklers, fences, septic areas and anything that should not be driven over, so the plan reflects the real yard.
Sources
- International Society of Arboriculture, Trees Are Good: Why Hire an Arborist (PDF) (read October 17, 2026)
- NV Energy: Trees and power lines (read October 1, 2026)