Where’s the job?

Scope of Works

• Inspect tree and site to assess health, fruiting habit and access

• remove dead, diseased and crossing branches to improve tree health

• thin crown to improve light and air flow and reduce fruit drop

• reduce height or reshape crown to agreed size where required

• remove epicormic growth and suckers and tidy base of tree

• chip branches and remove arisings from site or leave woodchip in agreed area

Typical Cost

Time on Site

Small plum tree prune 1–2 hours; medium tree or shaping 2–4 hours; large tree, multiple trees or work requiring a cherry picker 4–8 hours or more Factors that extend time: poor access, dense growth or ivy, presence of bird nests, proximity to buildings or power lines and the need for scaffolding or a lift

Questions to Ask Your Tradie

• are you a qualified arborist and what certificates do you hold

• do you carry public liability insurance and insurance for working at height

• will you provide a written quote showing labour, disposal and any extras

• how will you check for nesting birds and when can work be carried out safely

• how will arisings be disposed of and is chipping included

• will any work require scaffolding or a cherry picker and how is that charged

How to Avoid Surprises

• ensure good vehicle access and reserve on‑street parking or driveway space for vans and trailers

• tell the tradie about proximity to buildings, conservatories, fences and overhead cables

• check for tree protection orders or conservation area rules and get permissions if needed

• avoid bird nesting season (March–August) unless tradie confirms nests have been checked

• move vehicles, secure pets and clear the work area of garden furniture and fragile plants