Many of us assume that if a tree company is listed in a phone directory, newspaper, or some sort of advertisement that they are licensed and insured. Way to often that is not the case. You would be amazed at the level of illegal tree work that is being done by individuals claiming to be Licensed Tree Trimming Contractors.
The public needs to be aware of these companies and how to protect themselves from being misinformed. One way to check the company is to go online. The contractors board has a web site to check the contractors information out. The site is www.cslb.ca.gov. You can check by contractor’s license number, name of company or the individual’s name. They also now have a list of most wanted on the site. Don’t be scammed by these individuals. The unlicensed contractors prey on unassuming homeowners, they do substandard work and take income away from licensed, insured, knowledgeable and legitimate businesses. These individuals underbid jobs by 30% or more. Unlicensed contractors are part of the $60-$140 billion dollar underground economy that doesn’t pay taxes, insurance or follow safety laws.
Any job over $500.00 requires a contractor’s license. A contractor must have workers comp insurance unless the employee is a family member. Also remember that your landscaper or gardener is not licensed to do tree work, that is they are not allowed to do tree work that requires him to leave the ground.
To solve the illegal contractor’s problems we need to educate the public on choosing a legitimate tree contractor. Do your homework, start checking the license, get at least three estimates, and follow up with a hard copy of proof of insurance.