When it comes to taking care of your trees, hiring the right professionals can make all the difference. Whether you’re dealing with overgrown branches, storm damage, or a tree that simply needs to go, you want to make sure the job is done safely, efficiently, and without any headaches.
But here’s the thing: not all tree service companies are created equal. Some might offer tempting low prices, while others promise quick results — but without proper insurance, experience, or attention to detail, you could end up paying a lot more in the long run.
So before you make that call, it’s worth asking a few key questions to make sure you’re hiring the right insured tree service in Keene, NH. Let’s go through the most important ones.
1. Are You Fully Insured and Licensed?
This is the first — and arguably the most important — question you should ask.
Tree work can be risky. Accidents happen, branches fall, and sometimes property damage can occur despite every precaution. If the company isn’t insured, you could be the one held responsible.
A reputable tree service should have both liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage. Liability insurance protects your property, while worker’s compensation covers the crew in case of injury.
Before hiring anyone, ask for proof of insurance — not just a verbal confirmation. Any trustworthy company will gladly provide it. At Wilcox Tree Service, we make this process easy for our clients because we believe peace of mind is part of good service.
2. How Long Have You Been in Business in the Keene Area?
Experience matters — especially in a region like Keene, where the mix of weather, soil, and tree types can present unique challenges.
A company with years of local experience will not only know how to handle New Hampshire’s seasonal changes but also understand how to safely manage trees on different property types — from residential yards to rural lots.
When you hire a local company, you’re not just getting tree care; you’re getting someone who’s familiar with your environment and community. That’s something you can’t get from out-of-town contractors who show up after a big storm.
3. What Kind of Equipment Do You Use?
The tools and equipment a company uses say a lot about their professionalism. Outdated or unsafe equipment can cause unnecessary damage or delays.
You’ll want to hire a team that uses well-maintained chainsaws, bucket trucks, cranes (when necessary), and safety gear. These tools allow for precise work, even in tight spaces or challenging areas.
At Wilcox Tree Service, we take pride in using industry-standard tools and ensuring our crew is fully trained to handle each job safely and efficiently. Whether it’s a small trimming job or a full removal, the right equipment makes all the difference.
4. Can You Provide References or Reviews?
A company’s reputation speaks volumes.
Before you commit, ask to see recent reviews or references from clients in the Keene area. A professional tree service should have a track record of satisfied customers willing to share their experiences.
Look for signs of reliability — such as punctuality, safety, cleanliness, and communication.
For instance, many of our clients at Wilcox Tree Service mention how our crew goes above and beyond with cleanup after the work is done. That’s the kind of feedback you want to see before hiring anyone to work on your property.
5. How Do You Handle Cleanup After the Job?
Tree work doesn’t end when the branches hit the ground. A proper cleanup is just as important as the cutting itself.
Ask if the company will remove all debris, logs, and wood chips once the job is complete. You don’t want to be left with a pile of branches in your yard or sawdust scattered all over your driveway.
At Wilcox Tree Service, we make sure your property is left in better condition than we found it. Our cleanup process is thorough and efficient because we know a clean yard reflects the quality of our work.
6. What Safety Practices Do You Follow?
Tree removal and trimming can be dangerous work, which is why safety must always come first.
Don’t hesitate to ask about the company’s safety protocols. Do they use protective gear? Are their employees trained in safe cutting techniques? Do they follow local and federal safety standards?
A professional tree service should be transparent about how they protect both their crew and your property.
At Wilcox Tree Service, safety is at the heart of everything we do. From properly securing work zones to using modern equipment, we take every precaution to ensure your project is completed without incident.
7. Will You Provide a Detailed Estimate Before Starting the Work?
Transparency matters when it comes to pricing.
Before agreeing to any work, ask for a written estimate that clearly outlines what’s included — such as the type of service, equipment to be used, expected time frame, and total cost.
This prevents misunderstandings and helps you compare options fairly if you’re getting multiple quotes.
Wilcox Tree Service believes in honest, upfront pricing. We provide detailed quotes so our customers know exactly what to expect before any work begins — no hidden fees or surprise charges later.
8. How Do You Handle Emergency Tree Services?
New Hampshire’s unpredictable weather can cause trees to fall or split without warning.
When that happens, you need a company that can respond quickly and safely. Ask whether the tree service provides emergency removal and how soon they can arrive after a call.
A reliable team will have procedures in place for storm response and urgent situations.
At Wilcox Tree Service, we understand how stressful storm damage can be, which is why we offer rapid-response tree care in and around Keene. Our goal is to minimize risk and get your property back to normal as quickly as possible.
9. What Happens to the Wood and Debris After Removal?
Another often-overlooked question is what happens to the wood after a tree is cut down.
Some companies leave the wood behind, while others will haul it away or turn it into mulch.
Ask about disposal options and whether the cost of removal is included in your estimate. If you’d like to keep the wood for firewood or landscaping, let the company know in advance.
At Wilcox Tree Service, we’re flexible. We can remove everything or leave wood neatly stacked for your use — whichever you prefer.
10. Why Should I Choose a Local, Insured Tree Service Instead of a General Contractor?
It might be tempting to hire a general handyman or contractor who offers “tree cutting” as part of their list of services. But here’s why that’s a bad idea.
Tree work requires specialized training, insurance, and equipment. A local tree service company — especially one that’s fully insured — has the experience and tools to get the job done safely and properly.
Hiring a local, insured team also supports your community. You’ll know exactly who you’re working with, and you can trust that they’re invested in maintaining their reputation among Keene residents.
Final Thoughts
Hiring the right tree service isn’t just about getting the lowest quote — it’s about finding a team you can trust to protect your home, your property, and your peace of mind.
When you ask these questions upfront, you’ll quickly spot the difference between a true professional and someone who just shows up with a chainsaw.
At Wilcox Tree Service, we’ve built our reputation on honesty, safety, and reliability. From storm damage cleanup to routine pruning and tree removal, we handle every project with care and precision.
So if you’re looking for insured, local, and dependable tree services in Keene, you’ve come to the right place.
Call 603-363-8197 today or send us a message to schedule your free estimate. Let’s keep your trees healthy and your property safe — the professional way.