While trees help safeguard the environment, dense branches or roots can be problematic. They can stick out to obstruct driveways and sidewalks, crack underground pipes, and even damage houses. Diseased trees can be of even greater concern as they risk falling during a storm. In such situations, tree removal might become mandatory. But anytime a homeowner has to remove a tree, a question hovers over their head: how much will it cost?

Factors that determine the tree removal cost
Typically, the cost for tree removal starts at $150 and goes up to $2,000, with an average price between $700 and $750. Naturally, the actual expense will differ depending on several factors, as discussed below:

Species, height, and volume
The tree’s species is closely associated with its volume and height. Pine and maple trees grow very tall (up to 100 feet) and may cost around $2,000 or more to remove. Oaks are approximately 20 feet lower than pines and maples; hence, they may cost between $800 and $1,500. As this example shows, the cost of removing big trees is more than that of smaller ones. But height is not the only factor. Italian Cypress grow up to 50 feet, but their low volume, thin trunks, and shallow root system make them easier to remove. Sometimes, they just need to be pulled out and tipped over. Hence, their removal cost is only around $400. Similarly, palm trees do not have a large volume despite their tall stature, so their average removal cost is between $200 and $500.

Condition or health
Diseased trees are a safety and health hazard for other trees, surrounding properties, or anyone visiting the space. Such trees are usually cheap to remove because they are easy to cut. However, it might cost you more if the tree is in a dangerous position, and its felling can result in damage. If the tree has already fallen, it is highly inexpensive to remove compared to cutting and hauling a living tree, provided it did not create any emergency. If the tree removal team has to deal with the trunk on the ground, there is no risk of damage. It is cheap and may cost around $100 to $300.

Accessibility
If the tree is inaccessible, it can inflate the cost by up to 50 percent. Removing a tree standing in a field or an open yard is simpler than chopping one near the power lines, a house, or another structure. When the team has to remove an inaccessible tree, they undertake significant preparation and devise specialized strategies to ensure that no damage is inflicted.

Geography
A licensed arborist knows whether a tree is a protected species or not. Naturally, the former will require permission for removal. Secondly, if a person resides in an area with a high living cost, the expense will be higher than the national average. Further, those living in remote or rural regions will have to pay extra for the travel distance.

Besides looking for a reasonable price, hiring the right tree removal contractor is essential. Ensure to hire a certified arborist who has insurance coverage. Although some jobs might look straightforward, insurance is imperative because there can be unforeseen complications. In addition, ensure the arborist has a valid license and is well-versed with the ongoing best practices for the job. Do not leave the landscape’s health or property’s safety to chance.