BG arborist urges residents to ask questions before hiring a tree care service

Adrien Lowien-Kirian outside her office in the city's public works building off East Poe Road.

The Bowling Green City Arborist has recently received concerns over companies soliciting tree work and wants to caution residents of solicitors. The City of Bowling Green requires a solicitor’s license for any soliciting individual, who is required to show identification when asked. 

If someone is knocking on your door soliciting tree work, be diligent in checking out their background and the services they are offering. Report suspicious solicitors to the Bowling Green Police Department non-emergency line 419-352-1131.

As spring approaches, if you are interested in hiring a tree care service, City Arborist, Adrien Lowien Kirian recommends the following considerations before making a deposit:

  • Can they provide an up-to-date copy of liability insurance?
  • Do you know of their reputation or references?
  • Get multiple quotes.
  • Are they professional?
  • Is the company taking proper safety precautions?
  • Does the company hold any industry certifications or licensure? While there is no license to do tree work, there are certifications available that demonstrate knowledge and professional practices
  • Do they follow best method practices? Some tree care practices, once standard, have been found to be detrimental to tree health, including tree “topping” and using spikes while climbing.

Visit bgohio.org for more details and recommendations when hiring a tree care service. If you are interested in finding an ISA certified arborist, visit treesaregood.org and use the “Find an Arborist” tool.