Post #543301 by coconuttzo on Sun, Jul 18, 2010 4:19 PM

On 2010-07-15 01:40, coconuttzo wrote:
Let me guess. You want the tree cut down for free in exchange for trunks?

I apologize if I've offended anyone by saying this & in what I'm about to say now. I just need to get it off my chest before someone learns the hard way.

Yes, it is a creative way of finding a solution, I'll give him that, but not when there is so much risk involved. Maybe if Palika had the tree cut down already, logs are on the ground & then post a "Free Logs" sign/message, It's a whole lot safer that way.

I am sure that the last thing Palika would want is for any TOM, DICK, or HARRY to show up with no tree working experience other than using a chainsaw for woodcarving and start taking down a 45' tall, 5 ton palm tree that is less than 20' away from a beautiful house. These videos are perfect examples.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cox9-Q605Io&annotation_id=annotation_837226&feature=iv

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8f_dQ7850jc&feature=related

These tree guys were found thru craigslist.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCrvqwNdb5g&feature=related

My advice to you Palika is to find a reputable, licensed tree guy/companies(make sure they have insurance) to make a competitive bid on the job. Tell them the situation; "you can't really afford to have it done." Who can? Mention who you've had over to take a look at the tree. Chances are they know each other's competitive prices & will try to beat it. "DO NOT," tell them the other guy's price. "DO," have everything they will do along with guarantees promised in writing. When your choice is made, make sure that contract is signed by both parties. This recession is actually the best time to have guys bid because your job is a hot commodity now. Every tree company is looking for jobs which are pretty scarce now.

I am a professional Tree Worker & unfortunately I do not live near you or your state but the best take it or leave it deal I would offer is a ballpark figure of $1,500 cash. What that entails is that the tree is professionally cut down ONLY. No debris will be hauled away(keeping your costs down). My proposal/contract would read some thing like this: "You are guaranteed that there will be no damage to the house, sidewalk, street signs or street. Planters & plants might get some minor(easy to fix)damage, if any. Lawn, possible minor damage, another easy fix."

I am not licensed or have any liability insurance but I have been working with trees for 17 years & am a superintendant for a tree company here in Hawaii. You should expect about $500-$1000 increase with an insured & a licensed company. Especially if heavy equipment is involved like a crane, bucket/boom truck. Another $1,000-$1,500 if you want the debris cleaned & hauled away. Remember the saying, 'you get what you paid for.' If the price is too low, ask for job references. Too many have called us after they've hired the lowest bidder to fix the job because of poor work standards/ethics. If it's too good to be true, it usually is.

Aloha & Good Luck!

[ Edited by: coconuttzo 2010-07-19 23:16 ]