The Dark Side of DIY Tree Removal: What You're Not Being Told

When it comes to tree removal, don't take matters into your own hands.

The Deadly Reality: Tree Removal IS Risky Business

Sure, it's easy to romanticize any project and think about all the money you can save from doing it on your own but the reality of tree removal is far from simple because IT IS NOT. It is a complex task with serious hazards involved that can easily turn your DIY tree removal project into a nightmare.

Overhanging branches that can snap and fall on anyone or anything at any time, powerlines, and faulty equipment are just some of the risks you might encounter when you try to get rid of that dying tree in your yard.

A Glimpse of the Dark Side

We live in the digital age where anyone can easily access information online and with that, comes the proliferation of thousands of DIY tutorials about almost anything under the sun from self-proclaimed "experts" not just on YouTube but in every corner of cyberspace, and this comes with a promise that you can save more money if you take the DIY route.

This, however, doesn't apply to tree removal.

Here are some shocking revelations that DIY gurus online are not telling you.

1. It's Not Just About Cutting

Tree removal is not as easy as 1-2-3. This requires careful evaluation, from the tree's overall health to the surrounding environment which means you need to have a deep understanding of tree management techniques. 

Remember, knowledge is power. Without it, you may do more harm than good, not just to your tree but to the surrounding properties as well.

2. Money WILL BE an Issue

The ultimate goal of any DIY project is for you to learn something new so you can save money in the long run. But cutting down a tree can actually hit you where it hurts the most: your pocket.

Aside from investing in proper cutting tools that you are not even trained to use, there's the possibility that you may get yourself into an accident and hurt yourself or cause unintentional damage to your neighbour's property, and that can quickly add up to unexpected expenses, making your DIY tree project an expensive mistake.

3. Legal Liabilities, anyone?

Yes, you read that right. You could get in trouble with the local council for cutting down a tree.

Why?

Your local council has rules and regulations governing tree maintenance and management, and that includes tree removal. This means that you have to check with them first before you can chuck that tree out of the yard because you might need to get their approval first, especially if you are dealing with a protected species. 

Failure to comply could mean paying hefty penalties and expensive legal battles. Ignorance of the law will not excuse you from any of this.

Talk about getting a double whammy because of a tree.

4. You're on Your Own

Arborists have got insurance to cover their backs, but you probably haven't. Guess what, mate? You're exposing yourself to a heap of financial trouble! 

Unlike arborists and other tradies who have got their business protected with full insurance, you're on your own if anything goes wrong. Don't say we didn't warn you!

5. This is a DIY Project that is NOT Worth the Time and the Effort

If cutting a tree down is hard, wait till you're done and need to deal with everyone's least favourite part: the cleanup. 

Once you finally chop down that tree, you'll be left with a giant mess to clean up, including those heavy branches and trunk. You'll need muscles of steel and heaps of time to get it done. Now ask yourself, is it worth the time and the effort?

Professionals don't even cut a tree down on their own. It takes a team effort, mate, not a one-man show! 

Regret is Real

Don't bite off more than what you can chew. The risks, potential unexpected costs, physical effort, and time wasted clearly outweigh all the excitement, adrenalin rush, and sense of accomplishment that you think you will get from cutting that tree on your own. You may end up regretting your decision and wishing that you had hired a pro instead.

So before you go all lumberjack to that tree in your yard, take a step back, and think about the bigger picture. Consider all the factors and weigh in the pros and cons, or better yet, call Arborist Sunshine at 07 5451 8756. Not only do we offer our clients a free assessment of your tree, but we also have the manpower and the right tools to do the job.

Our team of certified arborists will take care of your tree removal needs - from cutting it down to the actual cleanup without risking your limb or damaging anyone's property. Let us do all the hard work while you sit back and enjoy a bottle of ice-cold beer.