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: