How much does a Tree Lopper cost?

The cost of removing a tree depends on a number of different factors. Things like height, the type of tree as well as the condition of the tree can affect the cost. Tree removal within Australia can range drastically from $200 and $10,000.

Below is the average cost of a tree lopping job in Australia based on our Oneflare customer quotes:

Removing the tree stump is can be an extra service provided on top of tree removal. A normal tree stump removal costs can between $100 and $500.

Stump removal prices differ based on the type and size of the tree. A hardwood stump is typically more expensive than a softwood stump due to its deep roots. Hardwood stump removal costs vary between $60 to $400 whereas softwood stump removal costs range between $40 to $250.

Arborist versus Tree Surgeon

An arborist, also known as a tree lopper, has the ability to identify tree diseases and provide recommendations for treatment of the tree. A certified arborist will also be able to educate you on what the most suitable conditions for your trees and the existing plant and animal life surrounding your trees. 

A certified tree surgeon can safely prune, fell and remove trees in difficult and high areas and can conduct stump removal. With a higher degree of risk involved, tree surgeons are primarily focused on safety first. The difference to an arborist is that often a tree surgeon doesn’t have formal qualifications.  

Main Factors 

Providing your arborist details of the following factors is essential when asking for a quote. It is recommended to have an arborist inspect your tree in person for the most accurate quote.

• Type of tree: The type of tree significantly impacts the cost associated with removing a tree because the characteristics of trees differ from species to species. For example, a palm tree removal cost will probably cost less compared to removing a tree that involves cider and other hardwood.
• Height and size of the tree: Providing your arborist with the dimensions of your tree can allow them to gauge how much work needs to be done.
• Ease of access: If your tree isn’t easily accessible, arborists will need to use safety equipment to reach your tree. 
• Council fees and regulations: Councils across the country impose a different set of rules and regulations on tree removal, stump grinding and similar projects that may impact tree lopping prices. It’s important to check with your council before beginning any tree removal services.
• Stump removal: Having your tree stump removed would be an additional cost if you are having your tree removed.
  

  Professional tree climber in action. | Source: Fast Call Tree Services

The money you need to spend on removing a tree on your property depends on various factors. The tree length, tree species, or the area where your property is located will give you hints as to what to expect on cost estimates.

Types of Services

• Pruning: This service is done to maintain or improve the health of your tree. Pruning includes removing branches that may interfere with power cables and other structures, those that are infected with insects, are decaying and poses a danger to others or located where construction is happening. Oneflare customers have been quoted between $150 and $700 for pruning services.
• Tree and stump removal: Based on Oneflare data, customers have been quoted approximately $100 to $500 for both tree removal and stump grinding. 
• Planting: Arborists can also lend a hand in planting trees. Given that they possess knowledge and experience in taking care of trees, they will have the best experience when it comes to helping you start caring for your trees.
• Emergency tree care: Emergency services are not confined to humans and animals. Trees and other plants need emergency care, too. Emergency services are usually needed when a natural disaster hits the neighbourhood or when the tree in your backyard unexpectedly fell and is causing obstruction to your neighbours. Businesses have quoted Oneflare customers approximately $250 to remove a tall and dying tree with easy accessibility.
  

  Arborist using a cherry picker to get to those hard to reach places. | Source: City Tree Services

Estimating how much a tree removal can cost you will help in planning your budget for the project. Knowing whether if it is within your budget can solidify or suspend your plans. 

Tip #1: Tree Size

The height of the tree determines how much time an arborist will spend on your property. For a 6-metre tree with a narrow trunk, it is estimated to cost about $500, while trees that are 8-metres and higher with substantial trunks can go as high as $1,000.

Tip #2: Location

Accessibility to the tree is a big contributing factor in tree removal in most places in Australia. The cost rises if the tree is near a building or any other property. The increase stems from the fact that it would require the arborist to use special equipment to not damage surrounding properties during the removal.

For example, an average height tree with a diameter of about 30 centimetres in Brisbane, Queensland can cost at an estimated $300 to $2,000 depending on factors like age of the tree, the location of the property, vehicular access, and processing of debris.

When planning to hire an arborist, ensure that they are a certified arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or have an Australian Government Diploma of Arboriculture. This will ensure the arborist possess the proper knowledge of tree care. Other steps you can take include:

• Research on the company or individual arborist’s employment or service history. 
• Check whether your arborist has public liability insurance and ask them to provide you with their current certificates.
• It is also recommended to ask several arborists for an estimate of how much the work will cost and how they will carry out the tree removal.

Tree removal can be a costly task. If you are on a tight budget or want to save on costs associated with hiring an arborist, these are some of the steps you can take to save.

Tip #1: Wait until there is a sufficient amount of work

Arborists recommend that it is best to call them when you can no longer tend to the tree yourself without risking any danger. If you are unsure, ask your arborist if they can provide on-site inspections.

Tip #2: Insurance

Check whether your home insurance covers tree removal. Generally, home insurance does not cover tree removal unless your tree has fallen on your home, fence, garage or the fall was caused by natural disasters.

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