BBB Warns Of Yard Clean Up After Storms

The Better Business Bureau warns citizens to be cautious when hiring a tree or handy man service after storms.

When door-to-door workers offer services to clean up after storms hit the panhandle, be sure to ask questions and make sure they have their door-to-door permit. You are able to check all solicitors at bbb.org.

Ask if they will perform their work according to industry standards, which can be found here. If a company mentions “topping a tree,” “lion’s tailing,” or talks of using climbing spikes to prune a tree, they do not follow industry standards.

Take the following steps to assure the business is credible:

• Get more than one estimate and take time to shop
• Ask if the company has certified arborists on staff. You can check for certification by the International Society of Arboriculture here.
• Make sure that the company has current liability insurance, as well as workers compensation insurance. Ask for certificates of insurance if necessary.
• Be sure to require a written contract agreement with anyone that you choose to hire. Make certain that the contract has their name, address, license number (if applicable), and phone number. A copy of the contract should be given to you. Don’t assume a tree stump removal is included if it is not specified.
• Do not pay until you are 100% satisfied with the job. Pay only when the job is complete.
• Don’t be pressured to make an immediate decision. Check bbb.org/Amarillo for more information on companies.

Be aware of tree services that:

• Are vague about formal arborist credentials
• Have no printed materials, letterhead, bid forms, etc.
• Only accept cash payments or ask for payments up front
• Offer unusually low prices at first
• Pressure for an immediate decision
• Claim that your home is unsafe
• Offer a discount to find other customers