Getting Tree Removal Quotes in Brisbane: What to Ask Before You Accept

A cheap quote can cost you more than an expensive one. Here's what to check before signing.

Ask for a written quote

Verbal estimates are not commitments. Get the scope of work, what's included (green waste removal? stump?), and the price in writing before accepting. Reputable arborists do this without being asked.

Check the insurance

Ask: "Can you send me a Certificate of Currency?" Any legitimate operator sends it within a few minutes. Check: is it current, does it list public liability, and is the coverage amount at least $5M (ideally $10–20M for residential work)? If they can't or won't send it, move on.

Ask about the qualification

AQF Certificate III in Arboriculture is the minimum. For arborist reports, AQF Level 5. Experience without qualification means unvetted technique and no insurance obligation to do the job correctly.

Ask about the council permit

Does your arborist check VPO status before quoting? If they don't mention it and your tree turns out to be protected, it becomes your legal problem — not theirs. We check for every quote as standard.

Understand what's in the price

Does the quote include green waste removal? Stump grinding? Does it include council permit applications if needed? A $400 quote that doesn't include chip removal or stump work may cost $650 by the time everything's done. Get the full scope in writing.

Don't just take the cheapest

The cheapest quote in a competitive market often means: no insurance, no qualifications, or work that will need to be redone. A $100 difference between two otherwise similar quotes is not worth the risk of an uninsured contractor on your property.