# North London Tree Surgeons: full content > Find a good tree surgeon in North London. Independent directory of 16 North London tree surgeons and 10 guides. Data last checked 2026-09-05. Site: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/ Verification key: [verified] = we read it on an independent site (Companies House, a review platform, a trade body register). [stated] = the firm says so on its own website; not confirmed. [unknown] = no information found. We do not rank firms by quality. We have not used any firm. ## How we list firms We list firms with a published base in a North London borough or that name North London boroughs as their working area, and that appear on at least one public record. We exclude lead-generation sites and national franchises with no local base. We do not mark ARB Approved status as verified; check the Arboricultural Association register: https://www.trees.org.uk/ARB-Approved-Contractor-Directory ## Directory (16 firms) ### Thor's Trees - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/thors-trees/ - Website: https://www.thorstrees.co.uk/ - Phone: 0208 292 8992 - Based: 48 Argyle Road, London, N18 2PP (Enfield) - Boroughs covered: Enfield, Barnet, Camden - Areas named: Enfield, Barnet, Hampstead, Camden, Edmonton, Hertfordshire, North London - Trading since: 2015 (stated) - Accreditations: ARB Approved Contractor (Arboricultural Association) [stated]; TrustMark [stated]; City & Guilds [stated] - Insurance: Not stated on homepage [unknown] - Verified reviews: 4.9/5 from 324 on Trustpilot (checked 2026-09-05) https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/thorstrees.co.uk - Companies House: no company number found - Services: Tree surgery and maintenance, Tree felling and removal, Stump grinding, Tree surveys and consultancy, 24/7 emergency callout, Tree planting, Storm damage clearance - Notes: Homepage lists a 24/7 emergency service. Company number not shown on site; no exact match found on Companies House search. - Sources: https://www.thorstrees.co.uk/ ; https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/thorstrees.co.uk ### Artemis Tree Services - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/artemis-tree-services/ - Website: https://www.artemistreeservices.com/ - Phone: 0800 389 9418 - Based: West Hyde Nursery, Old Uxbridge Road, Rickmansworth, WD3 9XY - Boroughs covered: London-wide / Home Counties - Areas named: London, Home Counties, North London - Trading since: 1998 (stated) - Accreditations: ARB Approved Contractor (Arboricultural Association) [stated]; TrustMark [stated] - Insurance: Full public liability insurance (stated) [stated] - Verified reviews: 4.9/5 from 744 on Reviews.co.uk (checked 2026-09-05) https://www.reviews.co.uk/company-reviews/store/artemis-tree-services - Companies House: 05791625, Active, incorporated 2006-04-24 https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/05791625 - Services: Crown reduction, thinning and lifting, Pruning, Felling, Pollarding, Planting, Stump grinding, Hedge trimming, Tree reports and surveys, Commercial tree services - Notes: Based in Hertfordshire, not North London. Says it works 'in and around North London'. Larger firm; check travel charges. - Sources: https://www.artemistreeservices.com/ ; https://www.artemistreeservices.com/news/hiring-a-tree-surgeon-in-north-london/ ; https://www.reviews.co.uk/company-reviews/store/artemis-tree-services ; https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/05791625 ### A1 Town & Country - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/a1-town-and-country/ - Website: https://a1townandcountry.co.uk/north-london/tree-surgeons/ - Phone: 020 8226 4398 - Based: 47 Cooks Mead, Bushey, WD23 4FE - Boroughs covered: Barnet, Camden, Haringey, Islington, Hackney - Areas named: N1-N22, NW1-NW11, Hampstead, Highgate, Muswell Hill, Primrose Hill, Stoke Newington, Crouch End, Finchley, Golders Green, Barnet - Trading since: 2018 (verified) - Accreditations: ARB Approved Contractor (Arboricultural Association) [stated]; NPTC / City & Guilds chainsaw certificates [verified]; ISA credentials [stated] - Insurance: Full public liability insurance (stated); insurer named on TrustATrader, verified to 1 April 2026 [verified] - Verified reviews: 4.9/5 from 42 on TrustATrader (checked 2026-09-05) https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/a1-town-country-ltd-tree-surgeons-hertsmere - Companies House: 11359292, Active, incorporated 2018-05-14 https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/11359292 - Services: Felling, Crown reduction, Hedge cutting, Stump grinding, Site clearance, Tree planting, Emergency tree care, Landscaping and paving - Notes: Also does landscaping, paving and driveways. Ask for the tree team specifically. - Sources: https://a1townandcountry.co.uk/north-london/tree-surgeons/ ; https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/a1-town-country-ltd-tree-surgeons-hertsmere ; https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/11359292 ### Tree Matters - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/tree-matters/ - Website: https://www.treematters.co.uk/ - Phone: 020 8444 9461 - Based: Muswell Hill and Camden (no street address published) (Haringey) - Boroughs covered: Haringey, Camden, Barnet, Enfield, Hackney, Islington, Waltham Forest - Areas named: Muswell Hill, Camden, Barnet, Crouch End, Enfield, Hackney, Harrow, Highgate, Islington, Mill Hill, Walthamstow, Westminster, West London - Trading since: not stated - Accreditations: Arboricultural Association member [stated] - Insurance: Employer and public liability cover up to £5,000,000 (stated); certificate downloadable from site [stated] - Verified reviews: none verified - Companies House: no company number found - Services: Crown reduction, Crown lifting, Thinning, Pollarding, Felling and stump removal, Deadwooding, Hedge trimming, Storm damage removal, Planning applications and conservation area advice - Notes: Offers to submit planning applications for you. No review-platform profile found; ask for references. - Sources: https://www.treematters.co.uk/ ### Custom Cutters Tree Specialists - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/custom-cutters/ - Website: https://www.customcutters.co.uk/ - Phone: 020 8365 7722 - Based: Oak Farm, Cattlegate Road, Enfield, EN2 9DS (registered office) (Enfield) - Boroughs covered: Haringey, Enfield, Barnet, Camden, Islington - Areas named: Haringey, Muswell Hill, Enfield, Barnet, Camden, Islington, Hampstead, Highgate, Whetstone, Tottenham, Bounds Green, Watford, Cheshunt - Trading since: 1984 (stated) - Accreditations: NPTC qualified [stated]; City & Guilds [stated] - Insurance: £10m employers liability, £5m public and products liability, £1.5m professional indemnity (stated) [stated] - Verified reviews: none verified - Companies House: 06000265, Active, incorporated 2006-11-16 https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/06000265 - Services: Tree pruning, Tree removal and dismantling, Hazard assessment, Hedging, Stump grinding, Tree and shrub planting, Propping and bracing, Crown reduction, thinning and lifting, Tree surveys and reports - Notes: One of the longest-running firms on this list (trading since 1984, incorporated 2006). Website mentions Google and Yell reviews but we could not verify a rating. - Sources: https://www.customcutters.co.uk/ ; https://www.customcutters.co.uk/about ; https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/06000265 ### Forbes Tree Care - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/forbes-tree-care/ - Website: https://www.forbestreecare.com/ - Phone: 07921 149 118 - Based: 6 Wentworth Gardens, London, N13 5SN (Enfield) - Boroughs covered: Enfield, Haringey, Islington, Barnet, Camden, Hackney, Waltham Forest - Areas named: Crouch End, Muswell Hill, Islington, Highgate, Golders Green, Hampstead, Hackney, Southgate, Walthamstow, Barnet, Chingford, Finchley, Enfield - Trading since: 2014 (verified) - Accreditations: City & Guilds qualified [stated]; Which? Trusted Trader [stated]; Checkatrade member [stated]; Approved contractor for tree surgery in the London Borough of Hackney [stated] - Insurance: Not stated on homepage [unknown] - Verified reviews: none verified - Companies House: 09259356, Active, incorporated 2014-10-10 https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/09259356 - Services: Tree removal and felling, Pruning, Planting, Pollarding, Ivy removal, Hedge trimming, Stump and root removal, Tree surveys and reports, Emergency tree removal, Commercial tree services - Notes: Family-run. Publishes a London price guide (see our cost guide). Checkatrade and Which? pages could not be loaded to confirm ratings. - Sources: https://www.forbestreecare.com/ ; https://www.forbestreecare.com/locations/tree-surgeons-hackney/ ; https://www.forbestreecare.com/blog/tree-surgeon-costs/ ; https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/09259356 ### Clear Cut Trees - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/clear-cut-trees/ - Website: https://www.clearcuttrees.co.uk/ - Phone: 020 8351 6057 - Based: 70 Burford Gardens, London, N13 4LP (Enfield) - Boroughs covered: Enfield, Haringey, Barnet - Areas named: North London, Muswell Hill, Highgate, Palmers Green, All London - Trading since: 2012 (verified) - Accreditations: Arboricultural Association Professional Member [stated]; Royal Forestry Society member [stated]; NPTC [stated]; Which? Trusted Trader [verified] - Insurance: Insured up to £10 million (stated) [stated] - Verified reviews: 4.9/5 from 53 on Which? Trusted Traders (checked 2026-09-05) https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/clear-cut-trees-ltd/ - Companies House: 08300807, Active, incorporated 2012-11-20 https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/08300807 - Services: Tree removal, Pruning and reductions, Thinning, Tree inspections and condition reports, Stump grinding, Tree planting, Hedge work, Arboricultural consultancy - Notes: States work is done to BS 3998. Also listed on Checkatrade and MyBuilder (not checked). - Sources: https://www.clearcuttrees.co.uk/ ; https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/clear-cut-trees-ltd/ ; https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/08300807 ### North London Tree Surgeons - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/north-london-tree-surgeons/ - Website: https://northlondontreesurgeons.co.uk/ - Phone: 020 4636 4457 - Based: 1 Lincoln Mews, London, N15 3AW (Haringey) - Boroughs covered: Haringey, Barnet, Enfield, Islington, Camden, Hackney - Areas named: Barnet, Haringey, Enfield, Islington, Camden, Hampstead, Highgate, Crouch End, Muswell Hill, Hackney, Stoke Newington, Finchley, Southgate, Palmers Green, Kentish Town, Holloway - Trading since: not stated - Accreditations: NPTC qualified [stated]; LANTRA certified [stated]; CHAS approved [stated]; Constructionline member [stated]; SSIP approved [stated] - Insurance: £10 million public and employer liability (stated) [stated] - Verified reviews: none verified - Companies House: no company number found - Services: Tree felling and removal, Pruning and pollarding, Stump removal and grinding, Planting, 24/7 emergency response, Hedge cutting, Site clearance, Ivy removal, Tree surveys, Commercial tree surgery - Notes: States work is done to BS 3998:2010. Site mentions Google and Trustpilot reviews but we could not verify a rating. No company number published; no exact match found on Companies House search. - Sources: https://northlondontreesurgeons.co.uk/ ; https://northlondontreesurgeons.co.uk/areas-served/ ### Denny's Tree Surgery - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/dennys-tree-surgery/ - Website: https://www.dennystreesurgery.com/ - Phone: 07927 804775 - Based: North London (no street address published) - Boroughs covered: Barnet, Enfield, Haringey, Camden, Islington, Hackney, Waltham Forest - Areas named: Barnet, Enfield, Haringey, Camden, Islington, Hackney, Waltham Forest, Redbridge - Trading since: 2019 (stated) - Accreditations: NPTC certified [stated] - Insurance: Fully insured (stated, no amount given) [stated] - Verified reviews: none verified - Companies House: no company number found - Services: Tree surgery and maintenance, Tree felling and removal, Stump grinding, Pruning and pollarding - Notes: Owner-run sole trader style business (owner named on site). Good fit for smaller domestic jobs. Ask to see the insurance certificate. - Sources: https://www.dennystreesurgery.com/ ### Twisted Tree Surgery - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/twisted-tree-surgery/ - Website: http://www.twistedtreesurgery.co.uk - Phone: 020 8366 6974 - Based: 53 Crofton Way, Enfield, EN2 8HR (Enfield) - Boroughs covered: Enfield, Islington, Haringey - Areas named: Enfield, North London, Islington, Muswell Hill, Highgate, Hertfordshire, Essex - Trading since: 2014 (verified) - Accreditations: Which? Trusted Trader [verified] - Insurance: Not stated on the Which? profile [unknown] - Verified reviews: 5/5 from 39 on Which? Trusted Traders (checked 2026-09-05) https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/twisted-tree-surgery-ltd/ - Companies House: no company number found - Services: Tree reductions, Tree removal, Stump grinding, Tree planting, Tree thinning - Notes: Founder previously a work-based assessor at Capel Manor College (per Which? profile). Company website would not load when we checked; details are from the Which? profile. A company of this name (09252293, inc. 7 Oct 2014) exists on Companies House with a Milton Keynes registered office; we could not confirm it is the same business. - Sources: https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/twisted-tree-surgery-ltd/ ### Trees A Crowd - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/trees-a-crowd/ - Website: https://www.treesacrowdlondon.co.uk/ - Phone: 07704 054633 - Based: Enfield (no street address published) (Enfield) - Boroughs covered: Enfield - Areas named: Enfield, Oakwood, Cockfosters, Edmonton, Cheshunt, Cuffley, Potters Bar, Waltham Cross, 30-mile radius of Enfield - Trading since: 2024 (verified) - Accreditations: NPTC / City & Guilds / Lantra certificates (chainsaw, climbing and rescue, felling, first aid, tree survey) [verified] - Insurance: Insurer named on TrustATrader (Arborisk / Bartlett), verified to 3 July 2026 [verified] - Verified reviews: 4.92/5 from 25 on TrustATrader (checked 2026-09-05) https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/trees-a-crowd-london-tree-surgeons-en1-en2-and-en6 - Companies House: 15438290, Active, incorporated 2024-01-24 https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/15438290 - Services: Tree removal and felling, Pruning, Crown reduction and thinning, Pollarding, Hedge maintenance and removal, Stump grinding, Ivy removal, Deadwooding - Notes: Newest company on the list. Enfield-focused. - Sources: https://www.treesacrowdlondon.co.uk/ ; https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/trees-a-crowd-london-tree-surgeons-en1-en2-and-en6 ; https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/15438290 ### LG Trees - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/lg-trees/ - Website: https://lgtrees.co.uk/ - Based: Hackney, N16 (no street address published) (Hackney) - Boroughs covered: Hackney, Islington, Camden, Haringey - Areas named: Stoke Newington, Hackney, Islington, Camden, Hampstead, Highgate, Haringey, North, East and Central London - Trading since: 2007 (stated) - Accreditations: ISA Certified Arborist (held since 2013) [stated]; City & Guilds chainsaw qualifications [stated] - Insurance: £5m public liability and £10m employers liability (stated) [stated] - Verified reviews: none verified - Companies House: no company number found - Services: Tree pruning, Tree reduction, Tree dismantling, Tree planting, Hedge trimming and reduction, Garden maintenance - Notes: Small Hackney-based team. Contact is via the website form. Google rating mentioned on site but not verified. - Sources: https://lgtrees.co.uk/ ### Gibbs & Haynes - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/gibbs-and-haynes/ - Website: https://gibbsandhaynestreesurgeons.co.uk/ - Phone: 0208 341 4539 - Based: North London (no street address published) (Haringey) - Boroughs covered: Haringey, Camden, Islington, Barnet, Hackney - Areas named: Crouch End, Archway, Tufnell Park, Highgate, Hampstead, Camden, Finsbury Park, Islington, Barnet, Muswell Hill, Kentish Town, Golders Green, Cricklewood, Stoke Newington - Trading since: 1978 (stated) - Accreditations: Royal Forestry Society certificate in arboriculture [stated] - Insurance: Not stated on homepage [unknown] - Verified reviews: none verified - Companies House: no company number found - Services: Tree surgery, Planning applications, Supply and planting, Tree reports and consultancy, Felling, Clean up - Notes: Long-established local firm. Little public information on insurance or reviews; ask for both. - Sources: https://gibbsandhaynestreesurgeons.co.uk/ ### M. Parkin Tree Specialists - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/m-parkin-tree-specialists/ - Website: https://tree-specialists.com/ - Phone: 07976 732 995 - Based: 22 Beresford Road, East Finchley, London, N2 8AT (registered office) (Barnet) - Boroughs covered: Hackney, Islington, Haringey, Camden, Barnet - Areas named: Hackney, Islington, Haringey, Camden, North East London - Trading since: 1986 (stated) - Accreditations: Arboricultural Association member [stated]; ISA member [stated]; CHAS accredited [stated]; London Tree Officers Association member [stated]; Living Wage Employer [stated] - Insurance: £10 million public liability (stated) [stated] - Verified reviews: none verified - Companies House: 07191602, Active, incorporated 2010-03-16 https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07191602 - Services: Tree planting, Pruning, Felling, Stump removal, Tree inspections and reports, BS 5837 pre-development surveys, Homebuyer and subsidence reports, Woodland management - Notes: Strong on reports and surveys (mortgage, subsidence, BS 5837). Good choice if you need paperwork, not just cutting. - Sources: https://tree-specialists.com/ ; https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07191602 ### M.Y. Trees - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/my-trees/ - Website: https://my-trees.co.uk/ - Phone: 07811 217668 - Based: North London (no street address published) - Boroughs covered: Camden, Hackney, Islington, Haringey, Barnet, Enfield - Areas named: Camden, Hornsey, Hackney, Islington, Haringey, Finchley, Barnet, Enfield, Hampstead Garden Suburb - Trading since: not stated - Accreditations: none published - Insurance: Not stated [unknown] - Verified reviews: none verified - Companies House: no company number found - Services: Tree surgery, Tree care and preventative work, Tree health, Private and commercial work - Notes: Very little public information. Says it is a recognised tradesperson for Hampstead Garden Suburb. Ask for insurance and qualification certificates before booking. - Sources: https://my-trees.co.uk/ ### Woodland Tree Surgery - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/tree-surgeons/woodland-tree-surgery/ - Website: https://woodlandtrees.co.uk/ - Based: Grove House, 2 Woodberry Grove, London, N12 0DR (registered office) (Barnet) - Boroughs covered: Barnet - Areas named: North London - Trading since: 2008 (verified) - Accreditations: none published - Insurance: Not verified [unknown] - Verified reviews: none verified - Companies House: 06731642, Active, incorporated 2008-10-23 https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/06731642 - Services: not verified - Notes: Limited listing. The company website and its Checkatrade page would not load for us, so we could not verify services, areas or accreditations. Search listings describe it as Muswell Hill based and ARB Approved, but we have not confirmed this. Check the ARB directory yourself. - Sources: https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/06731642 ## Boroughs ### Barnet - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/areas/barnet/ - Neighbourhoods: Finchley, Whetstone, Totteridge, Mill Hill, Golders Green, Hendon, High Barnet, East Barnet, Friern Barnet, Hampstead Garden Suburb, Edgware - Postcodes: N2, N3, N11, N12, N14, N20, NW4, NW7, NW9, NW11, EN4, EN5, HA8 - Council tree protection: https://www.barnet.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control/planning-applications-and-permissions/do-i-need-planning-permission/protected-trees - Council note: Barnet publishes its protected-trees guidance and an open dataset of Tree Preservation Orders. We could not load the page to quote it, so check it directly. - Firms covering: Thor's Trees, A1 Town & Country, Tree Matters, Custom Cutters Tree Specialists, Forbes Tree Care, Clear Cut Trees, North London Tree Surgeons, Denny's Tree Surgery, Gibbs & Haynes, M. Parkin Tree Specialists, M.Y. Trees, Woodland Tree Surgery ### Enfield - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/areas/enfield/ - Neighbourhoods: Enfield Town, Southgate, Palmers Green, Winchmore Hill, Edmonton, Oakwood, Cockfosters, Bush Hill Park, Ponders End - Postcodes: N9, N13, N14, N18, N21, EN1, EN2, EN3 - Council tree protection: https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/environment/tree-protection-and-planning - Council note: Enfield's tree protection and planning page covers TPOs and conservation areas. We could not load the page to quote it, so check it directly. - Firms covering: Thor's Trees, Tree Matters, Custom Cutters Tree Specialists, Forbes Tree Care, Clear Cut Trees, North London Tree Surgeons, Denny's Tree Surgery, Twisted Tree Surgery, Trees A Crowd, M.Y. Trees ### Haringey - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/areas/haringey/ - Neighbourhoods: Muswell Hill, Crouch End, Highgate (east side), Hornsey, Wood Green, Tottenham, Stroud Green, Bounds Green, Harringay - Postcodes: N4, N6, N8, N10, N11, N15, N17, N22 - Council tree protection: https://haringey.gov.uk/environment/trees/tree-preservation-orders-tpos - Council note: Haringey says a TPO means written consent is needed for a tree to be cut down, uprooted, have branches cut back, or be damaged, including cutting roots. It has an interactive map and a public register. It warns that boundary trees may be registered under a neighbour's address. - Council quote: "A TPO means that written consent is needed for a tree to: be cut down, be uprooted, have any branches cut back, be damaged or destroyed, including cutting roots." - Firms covering: A1 Town & Country, Tree Matters, Custom Cutters Tree Specialists, Forbes Tree Care, Clear Cut Trees, North London Tree Surgeons, Denny's Tree Surgery, Twisted Tree Surgery, LG Trees, Gibbs & Haynes, M. Parkin Tree Specialists, M.Y. Trees ### Camden - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/areas/camden/ - Neighbourhoods: Hampstead, Highgate (west side), Kentish Town, Camden Town, Belsize Park, Primrose Hill, West Hampstead, Gospel Oak, Tufnell Park, Kilburn - Postcodes: NW1, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW8, N6, N19, WC1 - Council tree protection: https://www.camden.gov.uk/tree-preservation-orders - Council note: Camden's protected trees page covers TPOs and conservation area notices. We could not load the page to quote it, so check it directly. - Firms covering: Thor's Trees, A1 Town & Country, Tree Matters, Custom Cutters Tree Specialists, Forbes Tree Care, North London Tree Surgeons, Denny's Tree Surgery, LG Trees, Gibbs & Haynes, M. Parkin Tree Specialists, M.Y. Trees ### Islington - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/areas/islington/ - Neighbourhoods: Highbury, Holloway, Archway, Canonbury, Angel, Finsbury Park, Barnsbury, Clerkenwell, Tufnell Park - Postcodes: N1, N4, N5, N7, N19, EC1 - Council tree protection: https://www.islington.gov.uk/planning/trees-and-landscape/protected-trees/trees_in_conservation_areas - Council note: Islington requires formal notice at least six weeks before work on a tree in a conservation area. It has an interactive borough map showing protected trees. - Council quote: "You must give us formal notification at least six weeks before you want to do the work." - Firms covering: A1 Town & Country, Tree Matters, Custom Cutters Tree Specialists, Forbes Tree Care, North London Tree Surgeons, Denny's Tree Surgery, Twisted Tree Surgery, LG Trees, Gibbs & Haynes, M. Parkin Tree Specialists, M.Y. Trees ### Hackney - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/areas/hackney/ - Neighbourhoods: Stoke Newington, Dalston, Clapton, Hackney Central, Homerton, Stamford Hill, De Beauvoir, Shoreditch, Hoxton - Postcodes: N1, N4, N16, E5, E8, E9, E2 - Council tree protection: https://www.hackney.gov.uk/planning-and-building/conservation-and-urban-design/trees - Council note: Hackney requires approval before work on a TPO tree, six weeks notice for trees in conservation areas, and a five-day notice for urgent safety work. It has a map to check whether a tree is protected. - Council quote: "You must get approval from the Local Planning Authority before doing any pruning or other work on a tree with a TPO." - Firms covering: A1 Town & Country, Tree Matters, Forbes Tree Care, North London Tree Surgeons, Denny's Tree Surgery, LG Trees, Gibbs & Haynes, M. Parkin Tree Specialists, M.Y. Trees ### Waltham Forest - URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/areas/waltham-forest/ - Neighbourhoods: Walthamstow, Chingford, Leyton, Leytonstone, Highams Park - Postcodes: E4, E10, E11, E17 - Council tree protection: https://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/neighbourhoods/conservation-and-trees/tree-preservation-orders - Council note: Waltham Forest says a TPO bans cutting down, lopping, topping, uprooting, wilful damage or destruction of trees without consent. Unsure if your tree is covered? Email treepreservation@walthamforest.gov.uk. Dead or dangerous trees need five days notice with photos. - Council quote: "A tree preservation order (TPO) bans the cutting down, lopping, topping, uprooting, wilful damage, or destruction of tree(s) without our consent." - Firms covering: Tree Matters, Forbes Tree Care, Denny's Tree Surgery ## Guides --- # How to Choose a Tree Surgeon in North London > A plain step-by-step checklist for picking a safe, insured, qualified tree surgeon in North London. Covers accreditation, insurance, quotes, permission and red flags. URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/guides/how-to-choose-a-tree-surgeon-north-london/ · Published 2026-09-05 · Updated 2026-09-05 · By North London Tree Surgeons Picking a tree surgeon is not like picking a gardener. Tree work is high-risk. It involves chainsaws, heights and heavy timber. If it goes wrong, the bill lands on you. This guide gives you a simple checklist. Work through it in order. ### The 60-second version 1. Check the firm is on the [ARB Approved Contractor register](https://www.trees.org.uk/ARB-Approved-Contractor-Directory). If not, ask why. 2. Ask for the public liability insurance certificate. Look for at least £5 million. 3. Ask for chainsaw and climbing certificates (NPTC, City & Guilds or Lantra). 4. Check whether your tree is protected. Ask your council before any work. 5. Get a written quote. If it feels high, or you are not sure, get one more. 6. Never pay in full up front. Never hire someone who knocks on your door. The rest of this page explains each step. ### Step 1: Start with the ARB Approved Contractor register The Arboricultural Association runs the only full accreditation scheme for UK tree surgeons. It says the scheme checks "tree work and health and safety" and that every Approved Contractor "has been thoroughly assessed". It also warns: "if they do not appear on the online register then they are not an Approved Contractor." ([Arboricultural Association directory](https://www.trees.org.uk/ARB-Approved-Contractor-Directory)) Approved Contractors must hold at least £5 million of public liability cover, with a maximum excess of £250 per incident. They are reassessed on a regular cycle. ([Why use an ARB Approved Contractor](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/Why-should-I-use-an-ARB-Approved-Contractor)) Very few North London firms hold this status. In our directory, three firms say they are ARB Approved. Use the register to confirm it yourself. Type the firm's name or your postcode. Being a "member" of the Arboricultural Association is not the same thing. Membership is a subscription. Approved Contractor status is an inspection. Several good local firms are members but not Approved Contractors. That is fine. It just means you must do more checking yourself. ### Step 2: Ask to see insurance, not just hear about it Every firm says it is "fully insured". Ask for the certificate. A real firm will send it within a day. Check three things: - The name on the certificate matches the trading name on the quote. - Public liability is at least £5 million. Most good firms carry £5 million to £10 million. - The policy is in date. If the firm has staff, it also needs employers' liability insurance. This is a legal requirement in the UK. See our [insurance guide](/guides/tree-surgeon-insurance-what-to-check/) for the detail. ### Step 3: Ask about qualifications The Health and Safety Executive lists the main tree work hazards as "Aerial work, chainsaws, machinery, working at height, vehicles". ([HSE tree work](https://www.hse.gov.uk/treework/index.htm)) People doing this work need proof of training. Ask which certificates the team holds. Common ones are: - NPTC or City & Guilds chainsaw units - Lantra awards - Tree climbing and aerial rescue - First aid The person quoting is not always the person climbing. Ask about the whole crew. ### Step 4: Check whether your tree is protected In North London, many trees are protected. A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) makes it a criminal offence to "cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy a tree" without consent. Serious cases go to the Crown Court, where "an unlimited fine can be imposed". ([Arboricultural Association legislation guide](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/A-brief-guide-to-legislation-for-trees)) If you live in a conservation area, you must give the council written notice at least six weeks before work starts. Large parts of Hampstead, Highgate, Muswell Hill, Islington and Stoke Newington are conservation areas. A good tree surgeon will check this for you. Some, like Tree Matters and Gibbs & Haynes, say they will file the application. But you are the owner. The fine lands on you too. Check your council's map. See our [permission guide](/guides/tpo-conservation-area-permission-north-london/). ### Step 5: Get a written quote One good quote is enough. If it feels high, or you are not sure about the firm, get one more. The Arboricultural Association reminds you that "price is only one factor". ([How do I select the right tree surgeon?](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/How-do-I-select-the-right-Tree-Surgeon)) A second quote only helps if it describes the same work. Ask the firm to write down: - Which trees, and what will be done to each - How much will be removed (for example "reduce crown by 2 metres") - Whether waste is removed and where it goes - Whether the price includes VAT - Whether the firm will handle council permission Our [quotes guide](/guides/how-to-compare-tree-surgeon-quotes/) has a template you can copy. ### Step 6: Watch for red flags Walk away if you see any of these: - Someone knocks on your door offering tree work "while we are in the area" - Cash only, or a big deposit before any work - They offer to "top" your tree. Topping is outdated and harms trees. - No written quote, no address, no landline - They will not show insurance More in our [red flags guide](/guides/tree-surgeon-red-flags/). ### Step 7: Check reviews, but read them properly Use independent review sites, not just the testimonials on a firm's own site. Look for review counts in the dozens or hundreds, recent dates, and how the firm replies to poor reviews. Our [reviews guide](/guides/how-to-read-tree-surgeon-reviews/) explains what each platform checks. ### Use our directory Our [North London tree surgeon directory](/tree-surgeons/) lists every firm we could verify. For each one we show what the firm says about itself and what we could confirm on independent sites. We do not take payment for listings. ### Frequently asked questions #### Do I need an ARB Approved Contractor? No, but it is the easiest way to be sure of insurance, training and safety. If you choose a firm that is not approved, do the insurance and qualification checks yourself. #### How many quotes should I get? One is fine if you trust the firm and the price feels fair. If not, get one more and make sure it describes the same job. #### Can a tree surgeon start work the same day? For emergencies, yes. For planned work, a same-day start with pressure to decide now is a warning sign. Protected trees also need council consent first. #### Who is responsible if a protected tree is cut without permission? Both the owner and the person doing the work can be prosecuted. Check before work starts. ### Sources - [Arboricultural Association: ARB Approved Contractor Directory](https://www.trees.org.uk/ARB-Approved-Contractor-Directory) - [Arboricultural Association: Why should I use an ARB Approved Contractor?](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/Why-should-I-use-an-ARB-Approved-Contractor) - [Arboricultural Association: How do I select the right Tree Surgeon?](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/How-do-I-select-the-right-Tree-Surgeon) - [Arboricultural Association: A brief guide to legislation for trees](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/A-brief-guide-to-legislation-for-trees) - [HSE: Tree work](https://www.hse.gov.uk/treework/index.htm) --- # Tree Surgeon Accreditations Explained (ARB Approved, TrustMark, NPTC and More) > What each tree surgeon badge actually means, who checks it, and how to verify it. Compares ARB Approved Contractor, Arboricultural Association membership, TrustMark, NPTC, Lantra, City & Guilds, ISA, CHAS and Which? Trusted Trader. URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/guides/tree-surgeon-accreditations-explained/ · Published 2026-09-05 · Updated 2026-09-05 · By North London Tree Surgeons Tree surgeon websites are covered in logos. Some mean a lot. Some mean very little. This guide sorts them into three groups. Some badges mean the firm was inspected. Some mean a person passed a test. Some are just a membership or a listing. ### Quick comparison | Badge | Who gives it | What it checks | How to verify | |---|---|---|---| | ARB Approved Contractor | Arboricultural Association | The whole business: tree work, safety, insurance, office practice. Reassessed regularly. | [Search the register](https://www.trees.org.uk/ARB-Approved-Contractor-Directory) | | TrustMark | Government-endorsed scheme | Business has been vetted to required standards and committed to customer service. | [TrustMark site](https://www.trustmark.org.uk/) | | Which? Trusted Trader | Which? | Business assessed and endorsed by Which?; customer reviews collected. | [Which? Trusted Traders](https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/) | | NPTC / City & Guilds | Awarding bodies | An individual passed a practical test (for example chainsaw use, climbing, rescue). | Ask to see the certificate | | Lantra | Awarding body | An individual completed training or a test. | Ask to see the certificate | | ISA Certified Arborist | International Society of Arboriculture | An individual passed a knowledge exam and keeps up training. | Ask for the certificate number | | CHAS / SSIP / Constructionline | Safety schemes | Business paperwork on health and safety. Mostly used to win commercial contracts. | Ask for the certificate | | Arboricultural Association member | Arboricultural Association | A paid membership. Not an inspection. | Ask; do not confuse with Approved Contractor | | Checkatrade / TrustATrader / MyBuilder | Directories | Listing plus reviews. Some check insurance and ID. | Read the profile | ### Group 1: Badges that inspect the business #### ARB Approved Contractor This is the top badge. The Arboricultural Association says approved firms "have submitted their businesses and their tree work to the Arboricultural Association for assessment and have been found competent". It checks four things: how well they know and apply current tree work practice, whether they follow the law, whether they follow health and safety rules, and how well they run the office and look after clients. ([Why should I use an ARB Approved Contractor?](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/Why-should-I-use-an-ARB-Approved-Contractor)) Approved firms must hold at least £5 million public liability insurance, with a maximum excess of £250 per incident, plus employers' liability and professional indemnity where relevant. (Same source.) The register is public. The Association is blunt: "if they do not appear on the online register then they are not an Approved Contractor." ([Directory](https://www.trees.org.uk/ARB-Approved-Contractor-Directory)) In our directory, Thor's Trees, Artemis Tree Services and A1 Town & Country say they hold this status. Confirm it on the register before you rely on it. #### TrustMark TrustMark describes itself as "the Government Endorsed Quality Scheme". Choosing a registered business means "engaging with an organisation that has been thoroughly vetted to meet required standards and has made a commitment to good customer service". ([What is TrustMark](https://www.trustmark.org.uk/homeowner/what-is-trustmark)) It is a general home-improvement scheme, not a tree-specific one. Thor's Trees and Artemis say they are TrustMark registered. #### Which? Trusted Trader Which? assesses businesses and then displays customer reviews on its own site. Profiles we checked show a star rating, a review count and the phrase "Endorsed by Which?". Clear Cut Trees (4.9 from 53 reviews) and Twisted Tree Surgery (5.0 from 39 reviews) had live profiles when we checked on 5 September 2026. ([Clear Cut Trees profile](https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/clear-cut-trees-ltd/), [Twisted Tree Surgery profile](https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/twisted-tree-surgery-ltd/)) ### Group 2: Badges that test the person #### NPTC, City & Guilds and Lantra These are the certificates a tree surgeon earns for specific skills. Examples: chainsaw maintenance and cross-cutting, felling small trees, tree climbing and aerial rescue, using a chainsaw from a rope and harness. The certificate belongs to the person, not the firm. Two questions to ask: - Does everyone on the crew hold the units for the work they will do? - Can I see the cards or certificates? TrustATrader profiles sometimes list the exact units a firm has shown them. Trees A Crowd's profile, for example, lists chainsaw, climbing and rescue, felling, first aid and tree survey certificates. ([TrustATrader profile](https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/trees-a-crowd-london-tree-surgeons-en1-en2-and-en6)) #### ISA Certified Arborist This is an international knowledge exam. It shows the person understands tree biology and care, not just cutting. LG Trees says its lead arborist has held it since 2013. ([LG Trees](https://lgtrees.co.uk/)) ### Group 3: Memberships and listings #### Arboricultural Association membership A firm can join the Association as a member. That is different from being an Approved Contractor. Tree Matters, Clear Cut Trees and M. Parkin Tree Specialists describe themselves as members. That is a positive sign of engagement with the trade. It is not an inspection. #### CHAS, SSIP, Constructionline These schemes check health and safety paperwork. Firms use them to bid for council or commercial work. For a home job they are a plus. They do not replace insurance and skill certificates. #### Directory listings Checkatrade, TrustATrader, MyBuilder and Yell are directories. Some check insurance and company details. TrustATrader profiles we saw named the insurer and gave an "insurance verified through" date. That is useful. But a listing is not an inspection of tree work. ### What a good North London firm looks like - Public liability insurance of at least £5 million, shown on request - Every climber and chainsaw user holds the right NPTC, City & Guilds or Lantra units - Ideally, ARB Approved Contractor status, confirmed on the register - A real address and a company number you can check at Companies House - Reviews on at least one independent platform ### Frequently asked questions #### Is "fully qualified" a real qualification? No. It is a phrase, not a badge. Ask which certificates the crew holds and who issued them. #### Is an Arboricultural Association member the same as ARB Approved? No. Membership is a subscription. Approved Contractor status is an inspection of the business and its work. #### Does TrustMark check tree work? TrustMark vets the business and its customer service. It does not inspect tree work in the way the Arboricultural Association does. ### Sources - [Arboricultural Association: Why should I use an ARB Approved Contractor?](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/Why-should-I-use-an-ARB-Approved-Contractor) - [Arboricultural Association: ARB Approved Contractor Directory](https://www.trees.org.uk/ARB-Approved-Contractor-Directory) - [TrustMark: What is TrustMark](https://www.trustmark.org.uk/homeowner/what-is-trustmark) - [Which? Trusted Traders: Clear Cut Trees Ltd](https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/clear-cut-trees-ltd/) - [Which? Trusted Traders: Twisted Tree Surgery Ltd](https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/twisted-tree-surgery-ltd/) - [TrustATrader: Trees A Crowd Ltd](https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/trees-a-crowd-london-tree-surgeons-en1-en2-and-en6) - [LG Trees](https://lgtrees.co.uk/) --- # How Much Does a Tree Surgeon Cost in North London? (2026) > Published 2026 London price ranges for tree removal, crown reduction, stump grinding, hedge work and day rates, with sources. Plus what pushes a quote up or down. URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/guides/tree-surgeon-costs-north-london/ · Published 2026-09-05 · Updated 2026-09-05 · By North London Tree Surgeons There is no fixed price list for tree work. Every tree and every garden is different. But two London tree firms have published 2026 price guides. We have pulled the figures together so you can sanity-check a quote. All figures below are from those two published guides. They are a starting point, not a promise. Get written quotes for your own job. ### Published London price ranges (2026) | Job | Forbes Tree Care (Palmers Green, April 2026) | GraftinGardeners (London-wide, June 2026) | |---|---|---| | Day rate, team of three | £600 to £900 a day | £600 to £1,500 a day with truck and chipper | | Hourly rate | £75 to £110 | £75 to £110 | | Small tree removal | From £300 (no size breakdown given) | £250 to £550 (up to about 15ft) | | Medium tree removal | See above | From £600 (about 15 to 30ft) | | Large tree removal | See above | £1,200 to £3,500+ (30ft+) | | Crown reduction | From £300 | Small from £200; medium from £480; large £900 to £1,200+ | | Stump grinding | From £100 | £150 to £400+ per stump | | Hedge trimming | Not listed | £150 to £1,000+ | | Tree report | From £300 | Not listed | Sources: [Forbes Tree Care cost guide](https://www.forbestreecare.com/blog/tree-surgeon-costs/) and [GraftinGardeners cost guide](https://www.graftingardeners.co.uk/tree-surgeon-cost-london/). Both are tree firms, so treat the numbers as one firm's view of the market. ### Why the range is so wide A quote for the same size tree can double based on a few things: - **Access.** A tree in a back garden with no side gate means every log is carried through the house or over a wall. That adds hours. - **What is under it.** Working over a conservatory, a neighbour's shed or a road means slower rigging. - **Waste.** Chipping and taking away the wood costs money. Leaving logs for you saves it. - **Protection.** If the tree is protected, someone has to apply to the council. Forbes lists a planning application at £144 including VAT when done on its own. ([Forbes Tree Care](https://www.forbestreecare.com/blog/tree-surgeon-costs/)) - **Time of year.** Winter is quieter for many firms. Some will price keener. - **VAT.** A VAT-registered firm adds 20%. Ask if the price includes it. ### Day rates versus fixed prices Most firms quote a fixed price for the job. A day rate is more common for big or open-ended jobs. Both guides put a three-person crew at roughly £600 to £900 a day, with the top end higher when a truck and chipper are included. If a firm quotes a day rate, ask how many days it expects. ### What a "cheap" quote can mean A quote well under the others is not always a bargain. It can mean: - No insurance, or not enough - No waste removal - No council application - A crew without the right certificates - Topping instead of proper reduction, which harms the tree Our [red flags guide](/guides/tree-surgeon-red-flags/) covers the warning signs. ### How to get a fair price 1. Get a written quote. If it feels high, get a second for the same job. See our [quotes guide](/guides/how-to-compare-tree-surgeon-quotes/). 2. Ask each firm to state VAT and waste removal clearly. 3. Ask whether a smaller job can be bundled with a neighbour's. Shared set-up costs cut the price. 4. Do not pay in full up front. A deposit for a large job is normal. Full payment before work is not. ### Frequently asked questions #### What is the average cost of a tree surgeon in London? Two published 2026 London guides put a three-person crew at about £600 to £900 a day, or £75 to £110 an hour. Fixed-price jobs range from about £250 for a small tree to £3,500 or more for a large tree in a tight spot. #### How much does stump grinding cost? Published London figures range from about £100 to £400 per stump, depending on the stump's width at ground level. #### Is it cheaper to remove a tree in winter? Often, yes. Many firms are quieter in winter and can price more keenly. Winter also avoids bird nesting season. #### Do tree surgeons charge for quotes? Usually not for a standard quote. The Arboricultural Association says quotes "will normally be provided free of charge when quoting against a specification", but a fee may apply if advice or a report is involved. ([Arboricultural Association](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/How-do-I-select-the-right-Tree-Surgeon)) ### Sources - [Forbes Tree Care: Tree Surgeon Costs, London (April 2026)](https://www.forbestreecare.com/blog/tree-surgeon-costs/) - [GraftinGardeners: Tree Surgeon Cost London 2026 (updated June 2026)](https://www.graftingardeners.co.uk/tree-surgeon-cost-london/) - [Arboricultural Association: How do I select the right Tree Surgeon?](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/How-do-I-select-the-right-Tree-Surgeon) --- # How to Compare Tree Surgeon Quotes Like for Like > A copy-and-paste specification and a comparison table so any two tree surgeon quotes describe the same job. Covers scope, BS 3998, waste, VAT, permission and timing. URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/guides/how-to-compare-tree-surgeon-quotes/ · Published 2026-09-05 · Updated 2026-09-05 · By North London Tree Surgeons You do not need three quotes. Get one. If it feels high, get a second. But a second quote is only useful if it prices the same job. Most people ask for "a quote for the tree" and get two different jobs back. One firm plans to take off two metres. Another plans to take off five. One includes waste removal. One does not. You cannot compare them. The fix is simple. Write the job down first. Send the same words to each firm you ask. ### Step 1: Write a one-paragraph specification Copy this and fill in the gaps: > Please quote for the following work at [address]. Tree 1: [species if known] at the [back left] of the garden. Work: [reduce the crown by about 2 metres all round / remove to ground level / grind stump to 30cm below ground]. Tree 2: [...]. Please include: removal of all arisings, work to BS 3998, and confirmation of your public liability cover. Please state whether the price includes VAT. Please tell me whether you will check for tree protection and handle any council application, and what that costs. Access is via [side gate / through the house]. You do not need to know the species. A photo helps. ### Step 2: Ask the firm to quote against it A good firm will visit, then confirm the specification back to you in writing. If they think your plan is wrong for the tree, they should say so. That is a good sign. Change the specification for everyone if you agree. ### Step 3: Use the terms the trade uses The Arboricultural Association publishes the standard definitions. Using them stops confusion. - **Crown reduction**: "The reduction in height and/or spread of the crown (the foliage bearing portions) of a tree." Say how much, in metres. - **Crown thinning**: "The removal of a portion of smaller/tertiary branches, usually at the outer crown, to produce a uniform density of foliage". Should not exceed 30% overall. - **Crown lifting**: "The removal of the lowest branches". Should be specified to a fixed point, such as "5.5m clearance above ground level". - **Pollarding**: Removing the top of a young tree at a set height and repeating on a cycle. - **Topping and lopping**: "Generally regarded as outdated terminology". If a quote says "top the tree", ask for a proper reduction instead. Source: [Arboricultural Association terminology guide](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/A-brief-guide-to-tree-work-terminology-and-definit). The same guide names BS 3998:2010 as the British Standard for tree work. Ask for work "to BS 3998". ### Step 4: Fill in a comparison table | Item | Firm A | Firm B | |---|---|---| | Exact work described, per tree | | | | Amount removed (metres or %) | | | | Arisings removed? Logs left? | | | | Work to BS 3998 stated? | | | | Price ex VAT | | | | VAT included? | | | | Council check and application included? | | | | Public liability amount and insurer | | | | Crew certificates offered? | | | | Start date and days on site | | | | Payment terms and deposit | | | | Independent reviews (platform, score, count) | | | Only compare the price line once every other line matches. ### Step 5: Weigh price against everything else If you do get a second quote, remember the Arboricultural Association's point that "price is only one factor in selecting a service provider". ([How do I select the right Tree Surgeon?](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/How-do-I-select-the-right-Tree-Surgeon)) A quote that is 20% higher but includes waste removal, VAT and the council application may be the cheaper one. ### Common quote traps - **"Tidy up the tree."** Means nothing. Ask for metres or a percentage. - **"Leave arisings on site."** You will be left with a pile of branches. - **"Plus VAT."** Adds 20%. - **"Subject to council consent."** Fine, but who applies, and who pays? - **"Price valid today only."** Pressure tactic. Walk away. ### Frequently asked questions #### Should a tree surgeon visit before quoting? For anything beyond a small hedge, yes. Access, what is under the tree and the tree's condition all change the price. #### What does "arisings" mean? The branches, brash and logs produced by the work. Ask whether they are removed or left. #### What is BS 3998? The British Standard for tree work, BS 3998:2010. Asking for work "to BS 3998" tells the firm you expect proper pruning cuts and no topping. ### Sources - [Arboricultural Association: A brief guide to tree work terminology and definitions](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/A-brief-guide-to-tree-work-terminology-and-definit) - [Arboricultural Association: How do I select the right Tree Surgeon?](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/How-do-I-select-the-right-Tree-Surgeon) --- # Tree Surgeon Insurance: What to Ask For and How to Check It > Public liability, employers' liability and professional indemnity explained in plain English, with the minimum levels to look for and what North London firms say they carry. URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/guides/tree-surgeon-insurance-what-to-check/ · Published 2026-09-05 · Updated 2026-09-05 · By North London Tree Surgeons Tree work can go wrong in expensive ways. A branch through a neighbour's roof. A fence flattened. A worker hurt on your property. Insurance is what stands between you and that bill. Every firm says it is "fully insured". This guide explains what to ask for and how to check. ### The three types of cover **Public liability.** Pays if the firm damages property or injures someone who is not an employee. This is the one that protects you and your neighbours. Look for at least £5 million. **Employers' liability.** Pays if a worker is hurt. Any firm with employees must have this by law in the UK. Sole traders working alone may not. **Professional indemnity.** Pays if the firm's advice is wrong. Matters if you are buying a tree report or survey, not just cutting. ### What the trade body requires The Arboricultural Association requires ARB Approved Contractors to hold a minimum of £5 million public liability cover with a maximum excess of £250 per incident, plus employers' and professional indemnity insurance where applicable. ([Why should I use an ARB Approved Contractor?](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/Why-should-I-use-an-ARB-Approved-Contractor)) That is a good benchmark for any firm, approved or not. ### What North London firms say they carry These figures are from the firms' own websites, checked on 5 September 2026. They are claims, not verified facts. Ask for the certificate. | Firm | Stated cover | |---|---| | Custom Cutters | £10m employers' liability, £5m public and products liability, £1.5m professional indemnity ([source](https://www.customcutters.co.uk/)) | | North London Tree Surgeons | £10m public and employer liability ([source](https://northlondontreesurgeons.co.uk/)) | | M. Parkin Tree Specialists | £10m third-party public liability ([source](https://tree-specialists.com/)) | | Clear Cut Trees | Insured up to £10m ([source](https://www.clearcuttrees.co.uk/)) | | LG Trees | £5m public liability, £10m employers' liability ([source](https://lgtrees.co.uk/)) | | Tree Matters | Employer and public liability up to £5m; certificate downloadable ([source](https://www.treematters.co.uk/)) | | Artemis Tree Services | "Full public liability insurance", no amount stated ([source](https://www.artemistreeservices.com/)) | | Denny's Tree Surgery | "Fully insured", no amount stated ([source](https://www.dennystreesurgery.com/)) | Some directory sites check insurance for you. TrustATrader profiles we looked at showed the insurer's name and an "insurance verified through" date. A1 Town & Country's profile showed cover verified to 1 April 2026; Trees A Crowd's showed cover verified to 3 July 2026. ([A1 profile](https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/a1-town-country-ltd-tree-surgeons-hertsmere), [Trees A Crowd profile](https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/trees-a-crowd-london-tree-surgeons-en1-en2-and-en6)) Note those dates may have passed. Check the profile for the current one. ### How to check a certificate in two minutes 1. Ask for the certificate by email before you accept the quote. 2. Check the insured name matches the firm on your quote. Trading names and limited company names should line up. 3. Check the policy dates cover your job. 4. Check the public liability limit. £5 million is the benchmark. 5. Look for exclusions. Some policies exclude work above a set height or work with certain machinery. 6. If in doubt, call the broker named on the certificate. ### Questions to ask - "Can you email me your public liability certificate?" - "Does your policy cover working at height and chainsaw use?" - "Do you have employees, and do you hold employers' liability?" - "If you give me a written report, do you hold professional indemnity?" A real firm answers these without fuss. ### Frequently asked questions #### What insurance should a tree surgeon have? Public liability of at least £5 million is the benchmark used by the Arboricultural Association. Firms with staff must also hold employers' liability. Firms giving written advice should hold professional indemnity. #### Can I rely on "fully insured" on a website? No. Ask for the certificate and check the name, dates and limit. #### Does my home insurance cover damage by a tree surgeon? Sometimes, but you would claim on your own policy and may lose your no-claims discount. The firm's public liability should be the first line of defence. ### Sources - [Arboricultural Association: Why should I use an ARB Approved Contractor?](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/Why-should-I-use-an-ARB-Approved-Contractor) - [Custom Cutters](https://www.customcutters.co.uk/) - [North London Tree Surgeons](https://northlondontreesurgeons.co.uk/) - [M. Parkin Tree Specialists](https://tree-specialists.com/) - [Clear Cut Trees](https://www.clearcuttrees.co.uk/) - [LG Trees](https://lgtrees.co.uk/) - [Tree Matters](https://www.treematters.co.uk/) - [Artemis Tree Services](https://www.artemistreeservices.com/) - [Denny's Tree Surgery](https://www.dennystreesurgery.com/) - [TrustATrader: A1 Town & Country Ltd](https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/a1-town-country-ltd-tree-surgeons-hertsmere) - [TrustATrader: Trees A Crowd Ltd](https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/trees-a-crowd-london-tree-surgeons-en1-en2-and-en6) --- # Do I Need Permission to Cut a Tree in North London? TPOs and Conservation Areas > When you need council consent for tree work in Barnet, Enfield, Haringey, Camden, Islington, Hackney and Waltham Forest. Tree Preservation Orders, the six-week conservation area notice, penalties and how to check. URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/guides/tpo-conservation-area-permission-north-london/ · Published 2026-09-05 · Updated 2026-09-05 · By North London Tree Surgeons In North London, the answer is often yes. Two rules catch most people out: Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and conservation areas. Cutting a protected tree without consent is a criminal offence. The owner and the tree surgeon can both be prosecuted. Check first. It takes ten minutes. ### Rule 1: Tree Preservation Orders A TPO is "an order made by a local planning authority in England to protect specific trees, groups of trees or woodlands in the interests of amenity". It prohibits "cutting down, topping, lopping, uprooting, wilful damage, wilful destruction" without the council's written consent. ([GOV.UK guidance](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tree-preservation-orders-and-trees-in-conservation-areas)) Haringey puts it plainly: "A TPO means that written consent is needed for a tree to: be cut down, be uprooted, have any branches cut back, be damaged or destroyed, including cutting roots." ([Haringey Council](https://haringey.gov.uk/environment/trees/tree-preservation-orders-tpos)) Note the last part. Root cutting counts too. #### Penalties Breaching a TPO is a criminal offence. The Arboricultural Association notes that "In serious cases the case may be dealt with in the Crown Court where an unlimited fine can be imposed." ([Arboricultural Association](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/A-brief-guide-to-legislation-for-trees)) The law also tells the court to "have regard to any financial benefit which has accrued or appears likely to accrue" from the offence. ([Town and Country Planning Act 1990, s.210](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1990/8/section/210)) In other words, if felling the tree made your plot more valuable, expect the fine to reflect it. ### Rule 2: Conservation areas If your tree is in a conservation area, it is protected even without a TPO. You must tell the council before you work on it. The rules require you to "notify the local planning authority, using a 'section 211 notice', 6 weeks before carrying out certain work on such trees". ([GOV.UK guidance](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tree-preservation-orders-and-trees-in-conservation-areas)) The Arboricultural Association adds that no notice is needed for trees with a trunk under 7.5 centimetres in diameter, measured 1.5 metres above the ground. ([Arboricultural Association](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/A-brief-guide-to-legislation-for-trees)) Six weeks is a long time. Plan ahead. The council uses that time to decide whether to make a TPO. ### How to check your tree The Arboricultural Association's advice is to check "by looking at the council website or by contacting the local council (usually the planning department)". ([Arboricultural Association](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/How-can-I-find-out-if-the-trees-within-my-ownershi)) Most North London councils have an online map. | Borough | Where to check | What the council says | |---|---|---| | Barnet | [Protected trees](https://www.barnet.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control/planning-applications-and-permissions/do-i-need-planning-permission/protected-trees) | Page could not be loaded for quoting. Check it directly. | | Enfield | [Tree protection and planning](https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/environment/tree-protection-and-planning) | Page could not be loaded for quoting. Check it directly. | | Haringey | [Tree preservation orders](https://haringey.gov.uk/environment/trees/tree-preservation-orders-tpos) | Interactive map and public register. Warns that boundary trees "may be registered under neighbouring addresses". | | Camden | [Protected trees](https://www.camden.gov.uk/tree-preservation-orders) | Page could not be loaded for quoting. Check it directly. | | Islington | [Trees in conservation areas](https://www.islington.gov.uk/planning/trees-and-landscape/protected-trees/trees_in_conservation_areas) | "You must give us formal notification at least six weeks before you want to do the work." Interactive map available. | | Hackney | [Trees](https://www.hackney.gov.uk/planning-and-building/conservation-and-urban-design/trees) | "You must get approval from the Local Planning Authority before doing any pruning or other work on a tree with a TPO." Six weeks notice in conservation areas. Five-day notice for urgent safety work. Map available. | | Waltham Forest | [Tree Preservation Orders](https://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/neighbourhoods/conservation-and-trees/tree-preservation-orders) | "A tree preservation order (TPO) bans the cutting down, lopping, topping, uprooting, wilful damage, or destruction of tree(s) without our consent." Email treepreservation@walthamforest.gov.uk if unsure. | ### Dead or dangerous trees Most councils have a faster route for trees that are dead or a real danger. Hackney and Waltham Forest both describe a five-day notice for this. ([Hackney](https://www.hackney.gov.uk/planning-and-building/conservation-and-urban-design/trees), [Waltham Forest](https://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/neighbourhoods/conservation-and-trees/tree-preservation-orders)) Take photos before any work. Do not use "dangerous" as a way round the rules. Councils check. ### Who applies? Either you or your tree surgeon can apply. Many North London firms offer to do it. Tree Matters says it handles "submission of planning applications and advice on conservation areas". ([Tree Matters](https://www.treematters.co.uk/)) Gibbs & Haynes lists planning applications as a service. ([Gibbs & Haynes](https://gibbsandhaynestreesurgeons.co.uk/)) Forbes Tree Care lists a planning application at £144 including VAT when done on its own. ([Forbes Tree Care](https://www.forbestreecare.com/blog/tree-surgeon-costs/)) Even if the firm applies, you are still the owner. Ask to see the consent or the notice acknowledgement before work starts. ### What about my neighbour's tree? You can usually cut branches that overhang your boundary, back to the boundary line. But if the tree is protected, the same rules apply to you. Check first. Offer the cut branches back to the neighbour. Ask the tree surgeon to advise. ### Frequently asked questions #### How do I find out if my tree has a TPO? Check your council's online map or contact its planning department. Haringey, Islington and Hackney all have interactive maps. Also check under your neighbour's address if the tree is on a boundary. #### How long does a conservation area notice take? Six weeks from when the council receives your section 211 notice. You cannot start before then unless the council consents sooner. #### What is the fine for cutting a protected tree? It is a criminal offence. In the Crown Court the fine is unlimited, and the court must consider any financial gain from the offence. #### Can my tree surgeon apply for me? Yes. Many do. But you remain responsible as the owner. Ask to see the paperwork before work starts. ### Sources - [GOV.UK: Tree Preservation Orders and trees in conservation areas](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tree-preservation-orders-and-trees-in-conservation-areas) - [Town and Country Planning Act 1990, section 210](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1990/8/section/210) - [Arboricultural Association: A brief guide to legislation for trees](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/A-brief-guide-to-legislation-for-trees) - [Arboricultural Association: How can I find out if the trees within my ownership are protected?](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/How-can-I-find-out-if-the-trees-within-my-ownershi) - [Haringey Council: Tree preservation orders](https://haringey.gov.uk/environment/trees/tree-preservation-orders-tpos) - [Islington Council: Trees in conservation areas](https://www.islington.gov.uk/planning/trees-and-landscape/protected-trees/trees_in_conservation_areas) - [Hackney Council: Trees](https://www.hackney.gov.uk/planning-and-building/conservation-and-urban-design/trees) - [Waltham Forest Council: Tree Preservation Orders](https://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/neighbourhoods/conservation-and-trees/tree-preservation-orders) - [Tree Matters](https://www.treematters.co.uk/) - [Gibbs & Haynes](https://gibbsandhaynestreesurgeons.co.uk/) - [Forbes Tree Care cost guide](https://www.forbestreecare.com/blog/tree-surgeon-costs/) --- # 10 Red Flags When Hiring a Tree Surgeon > The warning signs of a rogue tree surgeon, from door-knocking and cash-only deals to "topping" and missing insurance. What to do if you spot one. URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/guides/tree-surgeon-red-flags/ · Published 2026-09-05 · Updated 2026-09-05 · By North London Tree Surgeons Most tree surgeons are honest and skilled. A few are not. The bad ones share habits. Learn the habits and you will spot them in the first five minutes. ### 1. They knocked on your door Nobody with a full order book knocks on doors. "We are working nearby and noticed your tree" is a sales line. Good firms get work from reviews and referrals. Say no thank you and close the door. ### 2. They want cash, or a big payment up front A deposit on a large job is normal. Full payment before any work is not. Cash-only with no receipt often means no insurance and no tax. If it goes wrong, you have no paper trail. ### 3. They offer to "top" or "lop" your tree The Arboricultural Association says topping and lopping are "generally regarded as outdated terminology". Topping means "the removal of large portions of the crown". ([Arboricultural Association](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/A-brief-guide-to-tree-work-terminology-and-definit)) It leaves big wounds and weak regrowth. A skilled firm will offer a crown reduction, in metres, to BS 3998 instead. ### 4. No written quote If the price is only spoken, you cannot compare it, and you cannot hold them to it. Ask for the quote in writing with the work described. See our [quotes guide](/guides/how-to-compare-tree-surgeon-quotes/). ### 5. They will not show insurance "We are fully insured" costs nothing to say. Ask for the certificate. If it does not arrive within a day, move on. Our [insurance guide](/guides/tree-surgeon-insurance-what-to-check/) explains what to look for. ### 6. They cannot name their qualifications Ask which chainsaw and climbing certificates the crew holds. NPTC, City & Guilds and Lantra are the normal answers. "We are all fully trained" is not an answer. ### 7. They claim to be ARB Approved but are not on the register The Arboricultural Association is clear: "if they do not appear on the online register then they are not an Approved Contractor." ([ARB Approved Contractor Directory](https://www.trees.org.uk/ARB-Approved-Contractor-Directory)) Check every claim. It takes one minute. ### 8. They say you do not need to check for a TPO Any firm working in North London knows how many trees are protected. A firm that waves this away is either careless or hoping you will take the blame. Both you and the firm can be prosecuted. See our [permission guide](/guides/tpo-conservation-area-permission-north-london/). ### 9. No fixed address, no company details A mobile number and a first name is not a business. Look for a street address, a landline and ideally a company number you can check at [Companies House](https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/). In our directory we show the company number and status where we found one. ### 10. Pressure to decide today "This price is only good today." "We can only fit you in this afternoon." Real firms are booked days or weeks ahead. Pressure is a tactic. Take your time. ### Bonus: no safety kit On the day, the crew should wear helmets, eye and ear protection, chainsaw trousers and boots. Climbers should be on ropes and harnesses. The Health and Safety Executive lists the hazards of this work as "Aerial work, chainsaws, machinery, working at height, vehicles". ([HSE](https://www.hse.gov.uk/treework/index.htm)) A crew in jeans and trainers is a crew that will hurt someone. ### What to do if you spot a red flag - Do not sign or pay anything. - Get another quote from a firm in our [directory](/tree-surgeons/). - If a firm has damaged a protected tree, report it to your council's planning team. - If you feel pressured or threatened, contact Citizens Advice or Trading Standards. ### Frequently asked questions #### Is it normal for a tree surgeon to ask for a deposit? For a large job, a modest deposit is normal. Full payment up front is not. #### Should I let a tree surgeon who knocked on my door quote? We would not. Firms with good reputations do not need to cold-call. If you are tempted, still run every check in our [main guide](/guides/how-to-choose-a-tree-surgeon-north-london/). #### What is wrong with topping a tree? It removes large parts of the crown at once, leaves big wounds and causes weak regrowth. The trade regards the term as outdated. Ask for a crown reduction instead. ### Sources - [Arboricultural Association: A brief guide to tree work terminology and definitions](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/A-brief-guide-to-tree-work-terminology-and-definit) - [Arboricultural Association: ARB Approved Contractor Directory](https://www.trees.org.uk/ARB-Approved-Contractor-Directory) - [HSE: Tree work](https://www.hse.gov.uk/treework/index.htm) - [Companies House search](https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/) --- # How to Read Tree Surgeon Reviews (Google, Checkatrade, Which?, Trustpilot, TrustATrader) > What each review site checks, what a good set of reviews looks like, and how to spot fakes. With the review scores we checked for North London firms. URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/guides/how-to-read-tree-surgeon-reviews/ · Published 2026-09-05 · Updated 2026-09-05 · By North London Tree Surgeons Reviews are useful. They are also easy to game. This guide explains what each platform does, what to look for, and what we found when we checked North London firms on 5 September 2026. ### What each platform actually does | Platform | Who can review | What the platform checks | What you see | |---|---|---|---| | Google | Anyone with a Google account | Little. No proof of purchase. | Star rating and count on Maps | | Trustpilot | Anyone; firms can invite customers | Flags suspicious reviews; shows a TrustScore | Score out of 5 and review count | | Which? Trusted Traders | Customers of endorsed firms | Which? assesses the business before listing it | "Endorsed by Which?", rating, count | | TrustATrader | Customers of listed firms | Shows insurer and "insurance verified through" date; shows incorporation date | Rating, count, verified details | | Checkatrade | Customers of listed firms | Checks identity and insurance at sign-up | Rating and count | | Reviews.co.uk | Customers invited by the firm | Collects reviews for the firm | Rating and count | | Testimonials on a firm's own site | Chosen by the firm | Nothing | Whatever the firm wants | ### Verified review scores we found We only list a score when we opened the review page ourselves. | Firm | Platform | Score | Reviews | Source | |---|---|---|---|---| | Thor's Trees | Trustpilot | 4.9 | 324 | [Trustpilot](https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/thorstrees.co.uk) | | Artemis Tree Services | Reviews.co.uk | 4.9 | 744 | [Reviews.co.uk](https://www.reviews.co.uk/company-reviews/store/artemis-tree-services) | | Clear Cut Trees | Which? Trusted Traders | 4.9 | 53 | [Which?](https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/clear-cut-trees-ltd/) | | Twisted Tree Surgery | Which? Trusted Traders | 5.0 | 39 | [Which?](https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/twisted-tree-surgery-ltd/) | | A1 Town & Country | TrustATrader | 4.9 | 42 | [TrustATrader](https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/a1-town-country-ltd-tree-surgeons-hertsmere) | | Trees A Crowd | TrustATrader | 4.92 | 25 | [TrustATrader](https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/trees-a-crowd-london-tree-surgeons-en1-en2-and-en6) | Several other firms in our directory mention Google or Checkatrade reviews on their websites. We could not open those pages, so we do not show a score. Check them yourself before you book. ### Five things to look at beyond the star 1. **Count.** Almost every tree firm has 4.8 or better. The count tells you more. Fifty reviews over five years is normal for a small firm. Three hundred is a busy one. 2. **Dates.** Are reviews spread over years, or did forty arrive in one month? Bursts can mean a review drive, or worse. 3. **Detail.** Real reviews mention the job: "reduced the sycamore at the back", "cleared up every leaf". Fake ones are vague: "great service, highly recommend". 4. **The bad ones.** Read every review under four stars. How did the firm reply? A calm, factual reply is a good sign. No reply, or an angry one, is not. 5. **Platform mix.** A firm with reviews on two or more independent platforms is harder to fake than one with a single perfect page. ### Testimonials on the firm's own site Treat these as marketing. The firm chose them. They may be real, but you cannot check. Use them to learn what the firm is proud of, not as evidence. ### What reviews cannot tell you Reviews measure how the customer felt. They do not measure whether the pruning cuts were correct, whether the tree will be healthy in five years, or whether the crew was insured. That is why we pair reviews with insurance, qualifications and Companies House checks in our [directory](/tree-surgeons/). ### Frequently asked questions #### Which review site is most reliable for tree surgeons? Sites that check the business before listing it, such as Which? Trusted Traders, and sites that show verified insurance, such as TrustATrader, give you more than the star alone. Google has the most reviews but checks the least. #### Is a 5.0 rating better than a 4.8? Not on its own. A 4.8 from 300 reviews tells you more than a 5.0 from 12. Read the low reviews and the firm's replies. #### Can I trust testimonials on a tree surgeon's website? Treat them as marketing. Look for the same firm on an independent platform. ### Sources - [Trustpilot: Thor's Trees](https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/thorstrees.co.uk) - [Reviews.co.uk: Artemis Tree Services](https://www.reviews.co.uk/company-reviews/store/artemis-tree-services) - [Which? Trusted Traders: Clear Cut Trees Ltd](https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/clear-cut-trees-ltd/) - [Which? Trusted Traders: Twisted Tree Surgery Ltd](https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/twisted-tree-surgery-ltd/) - [TrustATrader: A1 Town & Country Ltd](https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/a1-town-country-ltd-tree-surgeons-hertsmere) - [TrustATrader: Trees A Crowd Ltd](https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/trees-a-crowd-london-tree-surgeons-en1-en2-and-en6) --- # Tree Work Terms Explained: Crown Reduction, Thinning, Lifting, Pollarding and More > Plain-English definitions of the words tree surgeons use in quotes, based on the Arboricultural Association's standard definitions and BS 3998. URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/guides/tree-work-terms-explained/ · Published 2026-09-05 · Updated 2026-09-05 · By North London Tree Surgeons Tree surgeons have their own language. If you do not know it, you cannot check a quote. This page translates the main terms. The definitions come from the Arboricultural Association's terminology guide, which follows the British Standard BS 3998:2010. ([Arboricultural Association](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/A-brief-guide-to-tree-work-terminology-and-definit)) ### Crown The crown is the leafy part of the tree: the branches and foliage above the trunk. Most pruning terms describe what happens to the crown. ### Crown reduction "The reduction in height and/or spread of the crown (the foliage bearing portions) of a tree." The tree keeps its main framework and ends up with a similar but smaller outline. **Ask for:** the amount in metres, for example "reduce by 2 metres all round". A percentage is less clear because nobody agrees what 100% is. **Good for:** a tree that has grown too big for its space, or is too close to a building. ### Crown thinning "The removal of a portion of smaller/tertiary branches, usually at the outer crown, to produce a uniform density of foliage around an evenly spaced branch structure." It does not change the tree's overall size or shape. The guide says removal should not exceed 30% overall. **Ask for:** the percentage, for example "thin by 20%". **Good for:** letting more light through without making the tree smaller. ### Crown lifting "The removal of the lowest branches and/or preparing of lower branches for future removal." The guide says it should be restricted to less than 15% of the live crown height and should be specified from a fixed point, for example "5.5m clearance above ground level". **Ask for:** the clearance height in metres. **Good for:** clearing a path, a driveway or a view. ### Pollarding "The initial removal of the top of a young tree at a prescribed height to encourage multistem branching from that point." Once started, it must be repeated on a cycle, cutting back to the same point each time. Many London plane and lime street trees are pollarded. **Ask for:** confirmation the tree is already a pollard, or is young enough to start. Pollarding a mature tree that has never been pollarded is not the same thing. ### Topping and lopping "Generally regarded as outdated terminology but still included as part of Planning legislation. Lopping refers to the removal of large side branches and topping refers to the removal of large portions of the crown." **If a quote says this:** ask for a crown reduction to BS 3998 instead. Topping leaves large wounds and weak regrowth. ### Deadwooding Removing dead branches. The guide says the aim should be to "leave as much as possible, shortening or removing only those that pose a risk", because deadwood is a wildlife habitat. **Good for:** safety over paths and gardens, without changing the tree's shape. ### Felling and sectional dismantling Felling is cutting the tree down. In a small garden it cannot be dropped in one piece. Instead the tree is climbed and taken down in sections, often lowered on ropes. This is "sectional dismantling" or "sectional felling". It takes longer and costs more. ### Stump grinding Using a machine to chew the stump down below ground level, usually 20 to 30cm. The roots are left to rot. Ask how deep, and whether the grindings are removed. ### Arisings The branches, brash and logs produced by the work. Ask whether they are chipped and removed, or left for you. ### BS 3998 BS 3998:2010 is the British Standard "Recommendations for Tree Work". The Arboricultural Association names it as the most relevant standard for tree work. Asking for work "to BS 3998" tells the firm you expect correct pruning cuts and no topping. ### TPO and section 211 notice A Tree Preservation Order protects a tree by law. A section 211 notice is the six-week notice you give the council before work on a tree in a conservation area. See our [permission guide](/guides/tpo-conservation-area-permission-north-london/). ### Frequently asked questions #### What is the difference between crown reduction and crown thinning? Reduction makes the tree smaller. Thinning keeps the size but removes some inner branches to let light through. #### Is pollarding bad for a tree? Not if the tree is a species that suits it and the cycle is kept up. Starting to pollard a large, mature tree that has never been pollarded can harm it. #### How should I describe the work I want? Use the standard terms and give amounts: "crown reduce by 2 metres", "crown lift to 5 metres", "thin by 20%". Ask for work to BS 3998. ### Sources - [Arboricultural Association: A brief guide to tree work terminology and definitions](https://www.trees.org.uk/Help-Advice/Public/A-brief-guide-to-tree-work-terminology-and-definit) --- # When Is the Best Time of Year for Tree Work in London? > Bird nesting season, the law on nests, seasonal pricing and the six-week conservation area notice. How to time tree work in North London. URL: https://northlondontreesurgeons.com/guides/best-time-of-year-for-tree-work/ · Published 2026-09-05 · Updated 2026-09-05 · By North London Tree Surgeons Timing matters for three reasons: birds, the law and price. Get it right and the job is cheaper, legal and kinder to wildlife. ### Birds come first The RSPB says "March to September marks the main nesting season and it's crucial that we are careful not to disturb birds during this time." It recommends limiting hedge trimming to the period between 1 September and 28 February. ([RSPB](https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/birds-nests-and-nestboxes)) This is not just advice. "All birds their nests and eggs are protected by law: the Wildlife & Countryside Act of 1981." (Same source.) Government guidance says you are breaking the law if you "intentionally take, damage or destroy a wild bird's nest while it's being used or built". ([GOV.UK](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/wild-birds-protection-surveys-and-licences)) Work is not banned in spring and summer. But the firm must check for active nests first and stop if it finds one. Ask how they do this. ### The best window for most jobs For hedges and most pruning, **September to February** is the safe window. Birds have finished nesting. Deciduous trees are bare, so the structure is easy to see. Many firms are quieter, so prices can be keener. Some exceptions: - **Dead, dying or dangerous trees**: do not wait. Councils have a fast route for these. See our [permission guide](/guides/tpo-conservation-area-permission-north-london/). - **Some species prefer summer pruning**: for example cherries and plums, to reduce disease risk. Ask your tree surgeon. - **Storm damage**: deal with it when it happens, with a nest check. ### Build in the six-week notice If your tree is in a conservation area, you must give the council six weeks notice before work. ([GOV.UK](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tree-preservation-orders-and-trees-in-conservation-areas)) If you want the work done in October, file the notice in August. A TPO application can take longer. ### A simple timeline | When | What to do | |---|---| | July to August | Get quotes. Check for TPO or conservation area. File the notice or application. | | September to November | Prime time for hedges, reductions and removals. | | December to February | Still good. Ground may be soft; ask about protecting the lawn. | | March to August | Avoid non-urgent work. If it must happen, insist on a nest check. | ### Frequently asked questions #### When is bird nesting season in the UK? The RSPB describes March to September as the main nesting season and suggests trimming hedges between 1 September and 28 February. #### Is it illegal to cut a tree in nesting season? Cutting is not banned, but it is illegal to intentionally damage or destroy a nest that is in use or being built. A good firm checks first and stops if it finds one. #### Is tree work cheaper in winter? Often. Many firms are quieter in winter. Ask for a quote in both seasons if you are not in a hurry. ### Sources - [RSPB: Birds' nests and nestboxes](https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/birds-nests-and-nestboxes) - [GOV.UK: Wild birds: protection, surveys and licences](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/wild-birds-protection-surveys-and-licences) - [GOV.UK: Tree Preservation Orders and trees in conservation areas](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tree-preservation-orders-and-trees-in-conservation-areas)