How much does Stump Removal cost?

Australia has a variety of trees that affect the price of tree stump removal. Depending on the depth and diameter, the cost can range from $100 to $1,000. A tree stump measuring above a two-metre diameter can be more expensive.

Stump grinding involves grinding the stump to the grind and leaving the root of the tree. Stump removal involves the removal of the entire root. A stump grinding price averages $3 per diameter with a minimum fee of $100. Many property owners will have several stumps ground up, on one visit to save costs.

Different areas of Australia dictate the pricing of stump removal and grinding. This can be due to the type and size of trees, the proximity to buildings or a company’s hourly rate of stump removal and grinding. The following costs are dependent on the size of the trunk and accessibility to the tree.

Removing a stump requires research on the part of the homeowner. Knowing what lies beneath the stump can prove dangerous for the stump removal company. A palm tree stump removal cost may increase drastically if you find gas or water lines running beneath the surface. Always call utility companies before planning a dig to avoid damage to city or county property. Yards with obstacles, such as bushes or fences, may keep a tree stump removal company from gaining access. A minimum rate of $100 can be added to your quote for trees that are difficult to access.

Professional arborist up a tree. | Source: Roots 2 Leaves Tree Services

Receiving an estimate of tree stump removal may not be entirely accurate if you don’t consider the following factors. Do you have:

• Utility lines running beneath the tree stump?
• Bushes surrounding the stump?
• An unobstructed entrance to the stump?
• Are you within close proximity to your neighbours?

Remember that a tree stump removal cost estimate does not include removing barriers to get to the job. Consider the size of the equipment necessary to remove a stump and make the appropriate arrangements.

An arborist scales a large palm tree. | Source: Westside Professional Tree Management

Stump removal pricing takes into consideration the type of tree and the diameter. Hardwood trees are more difficult to remove than palm trees due to the deep roots. Palm trees are soft and have shorter and more flexible roots for removing. You will find these in sandy soil.

Here are some common costs associated with the removal of hardwood and softwood trees. The price of root removal should also be considered with a hardwood stump. A stump grinding machine goes typically 20cm to 30cm below the surface of the ground. Stump grinding can be a separate cost from stump removal costs. Be sure to inquire about this in your estimate.

Stump Grinders

Grinding up a stump is less intrusive and less expensive than digging up the roots. Stump grinding cost depends on several factors. The diameter of the stump, whether you have a softwood or hardwood tree stump and the geographical location are all considerations in the stump grinding cost. There is usually a minimum of $100 for a company to bring out a stump grinding machine. Average prices will run:

• $110 for a tree with a 500mm diameter
• $170 for a tree with a one-metre diameter
• $335 for a tree with a two-metre diameter

It is possible to rent a stump grinder and grind yourself. A stump grinder rental cost averages $150 to $300 for 24 hours.

Arborists are experts in the care of trees.  A proper consultation with an arborist will inform you about the condition of your trees. An Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) Level 5 Arborist should always be consulted in the maintenance or removal of trees. Some areas of credits that should be researched include:

• Licensing and Training
• Amount of Liability Insurance Carried
• Certifications: Have they completed at least an AQF Level 3 in horticulture or arboriculture?
• References

An arborist tree company will present a quote for the specific job at hand. This cost can range anywhere from tree removal and tree pruning to tree inspections. The cost can vary from $75 to $4,500, depending on the individual task. You can save money by waiting to hire an arborist during the offseason.  Winter months are an excellent season to get the best quotes.

* The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources