Frequently Asked Questions
How much does tree surgery cost in the UK?
The cost of tree surgery can really vary depending on the job. For smaller jobs which can be completed in a few hours, you would be looking at a price in the hundreds of pounds. For larger or more complex jobs that will take a full day or longer can cost upwards of £1000. For more information, please see our blog: ‘How much does it cost to have a tree cut down in the UK?’
What affects the price of tree work?
The price of tree surgery can depend on a number of factors. These include the time estimated to complete the work, waste removal, access and location of the site, equipment and number of operatives needed. For more information, have a read of our blog: ‘How much does it cost to have a tree cut down in the UK?’
Do you offer free quotes?
Yes, at Simpson Arboriculture, we are pleased to offer free quotations for tree work and other services. To arrange a quotation, you get get in touch with us in the office on 01400230492, or by completing our website form.
Do I need permission to cut down a tree?
In many cases, you can carry out tree work on your own property without seeking permission. However, at Simpson Arboriculture, we always check whether trees are protected by a TPO, conservation area, or subject to any other restrictions before carrying out any work. If trees are protected, we can submit the application to your local council and oversee the process on your behalf for a small fee.
If you are not the owner of the tree, you will need to seek permission from the owner before having any tree work carried out.
For more information, please see our blog: ‘Do I need permission to cut my tree down?’
What is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?
A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is put in place by your local council to protect trees that offer significant public value. This could be because of their appearance, age, or contribution to the local environment.
If a tree has a TPO:
- You must apply to the local authority before carrying out work. This usually takes around 8 weeks
- This includes pruning, reducing, or removing the tree
- Carrying out unauthorised work can lead to enforcement action and fines
For more information, please see our blog: ‘Do I need permission to cut my tree down?’
Can you carry out tree work in conservation areas?
Conservation areas are designated locations with special architectural or historical importance, where trees contribute to the character of the area. We regularly carry out tree work in conservation areas. However, most tree work within these areas does require permission from the local council. Trees below a certain size/ specification may be exempt, but it is always a good idea to check beforehand. For more information, please see our blog: ‘Do I need permission to cut my tree down?’
Who is responsible for trees on boundary lines?
In most cases, responsibility for a tree on a boundary line depends on where the tree trunk is located. If the trunk is entirely on one property, the tree usually belongs to that property owner. If the trunk sits directly across the boundary, it may be considered jointly owned by both neighbours. Property owners are generally responsible for maintaining their trees and ensuring they do not pose a risk to people or neighbouring properties. For more information, please see our blog: Who is responsible for trees on boundary lines?
What happens during tree surgery work?
Tree surgery work will vary depending on the type of job, but it usually begins with a site assessment and site specific risk assessment before any work starts. Our team may use climbing equipment, chainsaws, wood chippers and specialist machinery to carry out pruning, reductions, dismantling or tree removals safely and efficiently. Once the job is complete, all branches and debris will be removed and the site left tidy unless agreed otherwise.
For more information, please have a read of our blog: ‘Hiring a tree surgeon in Lincolnshire: Ask an expert’
Will you remove all waste and logs from site?
Yes, we remove all waste such as brash, logs and woodchip from the site as standard, unless agreed otherwise. For example, some customers may wish to keep the logs, woodchip or brash. In this case, it would be agreed with the customer beforehand, and we would leave any waste piled neatly in an area specified by the customer. In some cases, it may be more appropriate to chip to ground, such as in a woodland area. We are also asked to leave habitat piles in some areas to support wildlife.
How long does tree work take?
This will vary depending on the scale of the work being carried out. Many smaller tree jobs can be completed in a few hours. For larger scale works, this may take a day or longer. Once you have accepted a quotation, we will be able to let you know an appropriate time needed to carry out the work, and then we can book this in accordingly.
Do I need to be at home during the work?
Yes, generally it’s best to arrange for someone to be there when we carry out the work. This is so the team can check with you if they have any queries, and it also means they can check that you are happy with everything before they leave. We know this isn’t always possible, so if you can’t be at home, it is helpful for someone to be available on the phone in case the team have any questions.
Are you insured?
Yes, Simpson Arboriculture are fully insured, so our customers can relax knowing that we have everything covered in the event of any damage or incident. Copies of our current insurance certificates are available on our website.
Are you qualified tree surgeons?
Yes — our professional team are fully qualified and hold up-to-date NPTC and Lantra chainsaw certifications. We regularly undertake both new and refresher training to ensure we stay up to date with current industry standards, best practices and safety guidelines.
Do you work to British Standards (BS3998)?
Yes. We have built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality tree work. Wherever it is applicable (E.g. Pruning or reducing a tree), our work is carried out in accordance with British Standard BS3998:2010 Tree Work Recommendations, helping to ensure the finished result not only looks professional, but also supports the long-term health and wellbeing of the tree.
How do you ensure safety on site?
Safety is at the centre of everything we do. All work is carried out by fully trained and qualified arborists using industry-approved equipment and safe working practices. Before starting any job, we carry out a site-specific risk assessment and put the necessary control measures in place to protect our team, our customers and the public. We regularly inspect and maintain our equipment, follow current health and safety legislation, and ensure all staff keep their training up to date. Where needed, we also use signage, barriers and traffic management to keep the work area safe and well organised.
Can you clear large areas of woodland or land?
Yes- we undertake woodland and large-scale land clearance projects for both domestic and commercial clients. This can include clearing overgrown areas, removing trees and vegetation and preparing land for development. We have the experience, machinery and NPORS-qualified machinery operators needed to carry out larger projects safely and efficiently, while working responsibly to minimise disruption to the surrounding environment.
What machinery do you use?
We are well equipped with our own plant machinery. Our specialised machinery includes excavators, grapple saw, forwarder, tractor with timber crane and mulcher. For more information, please see our machinery page.
Can you work on wet or difficult ground?
Yes — we regularly work on wet, uneven and difficult ground conditions. Our specialist machinery is versatile and well suited to a wide range of terrain, allowing us to carry out work safely and efficiently even in challenging locations. Before starting any job, we assess site conditions carefully to choose the most suitable equipment and working methods, helping to minimise ground disturbance wherever possible.
Do you handle timber removal or processing?
Yes- we can manage timber removal and processing as part of our site clearance and forestry work. We have our own haulage equipment and timber trailer, allowing us to remove timber from site efficiently and safely.
Do you work with landowners, agents, and developers?
Yes — we regularly work with landowners, estate managers, agents and developers on a wide range of forestry, tree surgery and site clearance projects. We understand the importance of clear communication, reliable scheduling and working efficiently alongside other contractors where needed. Whether the project is small-scale maintenance or larger commercial clearance work, we provide a professional and practical service tailored to the site requirements.
What is the best firewood to burn?
You should always ensure that the firewood you use is Ready to Burn certified. This means that they are sourced using BSL authorised virgin wood, and the company selling them adheres to strict regulations for their production as set out by Woodsure. Using Ready to Burn firewood logs ensures high quality and low moisture content. For more information, please see our website page: What are Ready to Burn kiln-dried firewood logs?
What is the difference between hardwood and softwood logs?
Hardwood logs are more dense than softwood logs. This means that softwood logs contain less ‘fuel’ than hardwood logs. Using hardwood logs for your fire generally results in a longer burn, with more heat and better flames. All our logs are hardwood (mostly ash), so our customers can rest assured they are getting the best quality product.
What moisture content should firewood be?
Our Ready to Burn certified firewood logs have a moisture content of 20% or below, in line with Woodsure’s regulations for the production of firewood in the UK. These logs burn much more effectively than wet wood and help to reduce environmental impact.
Are your logs kiln-dried or seasoned?
Our firewood logs are all kiln-dried. Our drying process in the kiln removes excess water to ensure that logs are low moisture. They are Ready to Burn certified, meaning that our logs are meticulously checked, and our customer can achieve the optimal burn every time. For more information on the benefits of using kiln-dried firewood logs, please see our blog: Why you need kiln-dried logs to keep you warm this winter.
How should firewood be stored?
Proper storage of logs is key to ensuring it burns efficiently. Wet or improperly stored wood can be difficult to light, produce excessive smoke, and generate less heat. Moisture is the biggest enemy of firewood. It should be stacked off the ground (E.g. on a pallet or rack) to allow air circulation. Ideally, the top should be covered, but the sides left open. Outside storage is ideal. For more information, please see our blog: How to store firewood for maximum efficiency.
Do you offer bulk deliveries?
Yes, we can supply from 1 cubic metre up to 6 cubic metres of our kiln-dried firewood logs in any one delivery. For more information or to place an order, please visit our online log store.
