Free Tree Surgeon quotes across the UK
A tree surgeon specialises in the professional care, maintenance and removal of trees, carrying out work like crown reduction, tree felling, pruning and stump grinding. Homeowners typically hire them to remove diseased or dangerous trees, reshape overgrown specimens, clear deadwood, or grind out stubborn stumps that prevent garden use.
Tree surgeon costs vary dramatically based on tree height and location, ground access, whether the work requires specialist equipment like cranes or bucket lifts, and the complexity of the job — a simple hedge trim costs far less than felling a 40-metre oak or removing a stump from a confined space. Getting multiple quotes is essential because prices can easily differ by £1000 or more for the same job, and tradesmen assess risk, access and disposal costs very differently.
Why use Trade Quote Network?
Get competing quotes and choose the best combination of price, availability and reviews.
Every tradesperson is checked for experience, insured, and reviewed by previous customers.
Tradespeople working within your area — not national call centres or franchises.
No charge to compare quotes. You only pay the tradesperson you choose to book.
Typical Tree Surgeon costs
Call-out & assessment
£30 – £70
Small / straightforward job
£100 – £680
Mid-range job
£680 – £1550
Larger or complex job
£1550 – £3,000
Get 3 quotes to compare local prices in your area.
How to hire a qualified tree surgeon
Verify Arboricultural Association or NVQ credentials
Always ask to see proof of formal qualifications in arboriculture and check their public liability insurance is at least £6 million. This protects you if the work causes damage and ensures they have genuine training in safe felling and climbing techniques.
Request written quote with detailed scope breakdown
The quote should specify tree height, diameter, condition, what equipment will be used (ropes, harnesses, cranes), how waste will be disposed of, and timescale. Vague quotes like 'tree removal £800' are a red flag — you need to know exactly what is included and why the cost is what it is.
Avoid paying cash without a contract or receipt
Many tree surgeons ask for cash upfront with no paperwork, which leaves you unprotected if work is incomplete or causes damage. Always insist on a written contract, deposit receipt and final invoice, even if the price is slightly higher.
Ask how they will dispose of wood and debris
Chipping, burning, removal to recycling centre or stacking for firewood all have different costs and outcomes. Clarify this in advance so you are not surprised by additional charges or left with a garden full of logs.
Tree Surgeon services we cover
Trade Quote Network connects you with qualified tree surgeons offering crown reduction, felling, pruning, stump grinding, hedge trimming and emergency storm damage work.
- Tree felling & removal
- Crown reduction & reshaping
- Tree pruning & deadwooding
- Stump grinding & removal
- Hedge trimming
- Emergency tree work
- Tree surveys & TPO advice
- Woodland management
About our Tree Surgeon network
A reputable tree surgeon should hold formal qualifications such as an NVQ or diploma in arboriculture, and ideally be certified by the Arboricultural Association or registered with the National Register of Protestants in the event of disputes. They should also carry public liability insurance of at least £6 million and be able to provide evidence of safe working practices and up-to-date training.
Before the visit, clear the area around the tree or stumps of obstacles like garden furniture, plant pots and children's toys, and ensure the surveyor has safe access to view the full extent of the work. Let them know if there are overhanging power lines, drains or property boundaries nearby, as these significantly affect how the work is planned and priced.
After completion, ask for a signed work certificate or completion report detailing what was done, how waste was disposed of, and any follow-up care needed such as treatment for newly exposed stumps. A quality tree surgeon will guarantee their work for a reasonable period and advise on aftercare, such as whether newly pruned trees need monitoring or feeding.
Frequently asked questions
When do I need a tree surgeon rather than a gardener?
You need a tree surgeon (arborist) for any work on large trees: felling, crown reduction, crown lifting, deadwooding, and stump grinding. Gardeners can trim small ornamental shrubs and hedges; anything requiring climbing equipment or chainsaws should go to a qualified arborist.
Do I need permission to cut down a tree in my garden?
Check whether your tree has a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or is in a Conservation Area before doing any work. You can check with your local planning authority — they have a public register. Cutting a protected tree without consent can result in an unlimited fine.
How much does tree surgery cost?
Crown reduction on a medium garden tree costs £300–£700. Felling a large mature tree runs £1,000–£3,000+ depending on access and disposal. Stump grinding is usually £100–£300 per stump. Always get 3 quotes — prices vary significantly.
What qualifications should a tree surgeon have?
Look for NPTC/City & Guilds certificates (CS30, CS31, CS38, CS39) and membership of the Arboricultural Association. Legitimate tree surgeons carry public liability insurance (minimum £5 million is standard). Anyone offering cheap cash-in-hand tree felling without credentials is a serious risk.
How long does tree felling take?
Felling and removing a medium-sized garden tree typically takes half a day to a full day for a 2-person team. Large or difficult trees (near buildings, power lines, tight access) can take 2–3 days with specialist rigging equipment.
Will a tree grow back after being cut down?
Most hardwood trees (oak, ash, sycamore) will produce vigorous regrowth from the stump (coppice shoots) unless the stump is ground out or treated with a herbicide. Conifers generally do not regrow from a cut stump. Discuss stump treatment with your arborist when quoting for removal.
