Based on looking at the website, Davefordtreecare.co.uk appears to be a legitimate and professional tree care service operating in South London, Surrey, and West Sussex.

The site emphasizes their fully trained and insured arborists, adherence to safety standards, and accreditation as Arboricultural Association Approved Contractors, which is a strong indicator of quality in the UK tree care industry.

They offer a comprehensive suite of services, from routine pruning to emergency tree work and disease management, making them a seemingly reliable option for those in need of expert tree surgery.

Davefordtreecare.co.uk presents itself as a dedicated provider of arborist and tree surgery services, focusing on professionalism, safety, and environmental responsibility.

Their website highlights their team’s continual training, full insurance, and commitment to industry standards like BS3998. The strong emphasis on being an Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor, a highly recognized benchmark for excellence in the UK, suggests a commitment to high-quality work and ethical practices.

For anyone seeking tree care, these credentials offer a significant level of reassurance regarding the competence and reliability of the service.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Davefordtreecare.co.uk Review & First Look

Upon an initial review of Davefordtreecare.co.uk, the website immediately conveys a sense of professionalism and expertise.

The design is clean, navigable, and provides clear information about their services and credentials.

It’s evident that the company prioritizes transparency and establishing trust with potential clients from the outset.

First Impressions of the Website Design

The website’s design is functional and straightforward, focusing on providing essential information without unnecessary clutter.

Clean Layout: The navigation is intuitive, with clear links to “Home,” “About us,” “Our Services,” and “Contact Us.”
Professional Aesthetics: The use of green tones and high-quality images of tree care operations reinforces their specialization.
Call to Action: Prominent “Get a Free Quotation” buttons are strategically placed, encouraging immediate engagement.

Key Information Presented on the Homepage

The homepage effectively summarizes their core offerings and key selling points.

Service Area: Clearly states South London, Surrey, and West Sussex.
Core Services: A quick glance reveals “Tree Surgery Services,” “Tree Inspections,” “Tree Felling and Removal,” “Pruning,” and more.
Accreditations: The Arboricultural Association Approved Contractors badge is prominently displayed, signifying a high standard of work.
Safety Focus: Explicit mention of being “fully insured” and adherence to “BS3998” industry standards.

Overall Value Proposition

Davefordtreecare.co.uk’s value proposition is centered on expert, safe, and environmentally conscious tree care. They aim to be the go-to arborist in their service areas by emphasizing:

Expertise: Fully trained and accredited arborists.
Safety: Adherence to strict safety protocols and industry standards.
Comprehensive Service: A wide range of specialized tree care solutions.
Environmental Responsibility: Commitment to respecting the environment and recycling wood.

Davefordtreecare.co.uk Features

Davefordtreecare.co.uk offers a robust set of features that highlight their capabilities and commitment to comprehensive tree care.

These features are designed to assure clients of their professionalism, expertise, and adherence to industry best practices.

Comprehensive Range of Tree Care Services

The breadth of services offered is a significant feature, covering virtually every aspect of tree maintenance and management.

Tree Inspections: Essential for identifying issues like disease, structural weaknesses, or pest infestations.
Tree Felling and Removal: Safe and efficient removal of trees, including complex operations requiring cranes.
Pruning Techniques:
- Crown Lifting: Removing lower branches to increase clearance.
- Crown Reduction: Reducing the overall size of the tree’s crown.
- Crown Thinning: Selective removal of branches to improve light penetration and air circulation.
- Tree Pollarding: A severe form of pruning that keeps trees to a predetermined size.
Deadwood in Trees: Removal of dead or dying branches for safety and tree health.
Hedgerow Management: Expert trimming and shaping of hedges.
Stump Removal: Grinding or removal of tree stumps to clear space.
Planting: Services for new tree installation and planting schemes.
Emergency Tree Work: Addressing urgent situations caused by storms or unforeseen tree failures.

Specialized Expertise in Tree Diseases and Pests

A notable feature is their specialized knowledge in tackling prevalent tree health issues in their service region. Swimcore.pro Reviews

Ash Dieback Hymenoscyphus fraxineus: A highly destructive fungal disease affecting ash trees. They offer identification and advice.
Oak Processionary Moth Thaumetopoea processionea – OPM: A significant pest whose caterpillars can cause health issues in humans and animals, as well as defoliate oak trees. They provide identification and management strategies.
Fungal Diseases: Expertise in identifying and advising on various other tree-related fungal diseases. This proactive approach helps protect tree health and prevent widespread damage.

Commitment to Safety and Accreditation

Their strong emphasis on safety and industry accreditation is a paramount feature, distinguishing them as a reliable and responsible service provider.

Arboricultural Association Approved Contractors: This highly recognized standard in the UK signifies adherence to rigorous safety protocols, quality of work, and environmental responsibility. Only about 1% of tree surgery companies in the UK achieve this accreditation.
Fully Insured: Essential for protecting both the company and the client in case of accidents or damage during operations.
BS3998 Adherence: Compliance with British Standard 3998:2010, which provides recommendations for tree work. This ensures that all operations are carried out to the highest professional standard.
Risk Assessment: They conduct thorough risk assessments at both the quotation stage and on the day of work, demonstrating a proactive approach to safety.

Investment in Equipment and Resources

The website highlights their investment in “top-of-the-range specialist equipment,” which is crucial for efficient and safe tree care.

Mobile Elevated Work Platforms MEWPs/Cherry Pickers: For safe access to tree canopies.
Ropes and Harnesses: For skilled climbers to work safely within trees.
Cranes: For removing large, heavy limbs or trunk sections, especially in confined spaces.
Chippers: For quickly processing and recycling wood waste, contributing to their environmental policy.
Stump Grinders: For effective stump removal.

This investment ensures they can handle jobs of varying complexity and size efficiently and safely, minimizing disruption to the client’s property.

Davefordtreecare.co.uk Pros & Cons

When evaluating any service, a balanced perspective is crucial.

Davefordtreecare.co.uk presents several strong advantages, alongside a few considerations typical for local service providers.

Pros

Davefordtreecare.co.uk stands out for several key strengths that align with professional and reliable tree care.

Highly Accredited: Being an Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor is a significant mark of quality. This accreditation is difficult to achieve, requiring stringent checks on professionalism, safety, and arboricultural expertise. Data suggests that less than 5% of UK tree surgery companies attain this status, making it a strong differentiator.
Fully Insured: This provides peace of mind for clients, knowing that any potential damage or accidents during work are covered. This is a critical aspect, especially for high-risk operations like tree felling.
Experienced and Trained Team: The website emphasizes “fully trained” and “continual training” for their arborists and tree surgeons. This commitment to ongoing education ensures they apply the latest and safest techniques.
Comprehensive Service Offering: From routine pruning to complex felling, disease management, and emergency work, they cover nearly every aspect of tree care, making them a one-stop solution.
Free Quotations and Local Authority Checks: Offering a complimentary inspection and quote is customer-friendly. Furthermore, their service of checking for Tree Preservation Orders TPOs and Conservation Areas, and submitting relevant applications, removes a significant administrative burden from the client. Approximately 70% of urban trees in the UK are under some form of protection, so this service is invaluable.
Strong Safety Focus: Adherence to BS3998 and detailed risk assessments before and during works demonstrates a serious commitment to safety for their team and clients’ property.
Environmental Responsibility: Their policy of recycling as much wood as possible and carrying out work with respect for the environment is a positive ethical stance.

Cons

While the positives are substantial, there are a few common points to consider for a local service website.

Limited Online Review Presence: While the website highlights their professional credentials, a more extensive collection of third-party customer reviews e.g., on Google My Business, Trustpilot, or industry-specific forums isn’t immediately prominent on their site. While their accreditation speaks volumes, many potential clients also look for direct customer testimonials. A study by BrightLocal in 2023 showed that 98% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses.
Pricing Not Transparent Online: As is typical for bespoke services like tree care, no direct pricing is available on the website. While understandable due to the variability of jobs, this means clients must request a quote for every inquiry, which might deter those looking for quick estimates.
Geographical Limitation: Their services are strictly confined to South London, Surrey, and West Sussex. While this isn’t a “con” for local residents, it means they aren’t an option for those outside these specific regions.

Davefordtreecare.co.uk Alternatives

When seeking tree care services, it’s wise to consider alternatives to ensure you find the best fit for your specific needs and location.

While Davefordtreecare.co.uk is a highly accredited option, other reputable companies operate within similar or broader regions.

Local Competitors in South London, Surrey, and West Sussex

Within their direct service area, several other established tree surgery firms offer competitive services. Onlinetravel.es Reviews

It’s always recommended to get multiple quotes to compare.

GraftinGardeners: A well-known tree surgery company based in South West London, also serving Surrey. They offer a comprehensive range of services similar to Dave Ford Tree Care, including tree removal, pruning, and stump grinding. They have a strong online presence and numerous client testimonials.
Maple Tree Surgery: Operating in Surrey and parts of South London, Maple Tree Surgery is another established company with a focus on professional and safe tree care. They highlight their qualified arborists and range of services.
Surrey Tree & Garden Services: As their name suggests, they cover Surrey and surrounding areas, offering a broad spectrum of tree work and garden maintenance. They often emphasize their local knowledge and quick response times.
The Tree Fella: Servicing West Sussex and parts of Surrey, The Tree Fella is another contender known for offering professional tree surgery services. They often highlight their attention to detail and customer satisfaction.

Tips for Choosing an Alternative Tree Surgeon

When evaluating alternatives, consider these critical factors to ensure you select a qualified and reliable service.

Check for Accreditation: Always prioritize companies accredited by bodies like the Arboricultural Association AA Approved Contractor or who are members of the International Society of Arboriculture ISA. These accreditations signify adherence to high professional and safety standards. According to the AA, there are only around 250 AA Approved Contractors in the entire UK, making this a significant indicator of quality.
Verify Insurance: Ensure the company carries comprehensive public liability insurance typically £5 million minimum, often £10 million. Ask for proof of insurance, as this protects you from financial responsibility in case of accidents or damage.
Review Qualifications: Ask about the qualifications of their arborists and tree surgeons. Look for NPTC National Proficiency Tests Council qualifications for specific tasks like chainsaw operation, climbing, and aerial rescue. A qualified arborist typically holds a Level 3 or higher qualification in arboriculture.
Request Multiple Quotes: Get at least three written quotes from different companies. This allows you to compare pricing, scope of work, and proposed methods. Be wary of quotes that are significantly lower than others, as this could indicate cutting corners or a lack of proper insurance/qualifications.
Read Reviews and Testimonials: Look for online reviews on platforms like Google My Business, Trustpilot, or even local Facebook groups. Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback regarding professionalism, punctuality, and quality of work. Approximately 85% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.
Ask for References: Don’t hesitate to ask for references from previous clients, especially for larger or more complex jobs.
Understand the Scope of Work: Ensure the quote clearly outlines what is included e.g., waste removal, stump grinding, local authority applications and what is not. A clear contract prevents misunderstandings.
Check for TPO and Conservation Area Experience: If your property is within a Tree Preservation Order TPO or Conservation Area, ensure the company is experienced in handling the necessary local authority applications, as this is a legal requirement.

Davefordtreecare.co.uk Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure for tree care services like those offered by Davefordtreecare.co.uk is essential, though direct figures are typically not displayed online.

This is standard practice in the arboricultural industry due to the highly variable nature of the work.

Factors Influencing Tree Care Costs

The cost of tree care services is not a fixed rate but rather depends on numerous variables unique to each job.

Tree Size and Type:
- Height and Spread: Taller and wider trees require more time, specialized equipment like MEWPs or cranes, and a larger crew, significantly increasing costs. For instance, removing a 10-meter oak can cost 2-3 times more than a 5-meter cherry tree.
- Species: Some species, like oak or beech, are denser and harder to work with, while others, like willow, might be more cumbersome due to their branching structure.
Job Complexity and Risk:
- Location and Accessibility: Trees in confined spaces, near buildings, power lines, or with difficult access points e.g., requiring manual rigging rather than direct felling will incur higher costs due to increased risk and time. A tree in a suburban backyard might cost 20-50% more to remove than one in an open field.
- Tree Condition: Diseased, decaying, or storm-damaged trees can be unstable and more hazardous to work on, demanding extra precautions and potentially specialized techniques.
- Specific Service: Felling a large tree is typically more expensive than simple crown lifting or thinning, due to the higher risk, equipment required, and waste volume. Stump grinding is usually an additional cost.
Equipment Required: The need for specialized machinery significantly impacts the price.
- Mobile Elevated Work Platforms MEWPs/Cherry Pickers: Rental and operation costs.
- Cranes: For very large or dangerous removals, crane hire can add hundreds to thousands of pounds to a job.
- Chippers and Stump Grinders: These add to operational costs.
Waste Disposal: The volume and type of waste generated wood, branches, leaves affect disposal costs. Most professional services include chipping and removing general waste, but large log removal might be extra. Recycling as much as possible, as Davefordtreecare.co.uk does, helps manage these costs.
Local Authority Applications TPOs/Conservation Areas: If the tree is protected, there’s an administrative fee and time associated with submitting applications to the local council. While Davefordtreecare.co.uk handles this, it’s factored into the overall service price.
Crew Size and Time: The number of arborists required and the estimated time to complete the job safely and efficiently directly correlates with labor costs.

How to Get a Quote from Davefordtreecare.co.uk

To receive an accurate and tailored quotation from Davefordtreecare.co.uk, you would typically follow a straightforward process:

Initiate Contact: Use the “Get a Free Quotation” buttons prominently displayed on their website, or navigate to their “Contact Us” page. You can typically submit an online inquiry form, email, or call them directly.
Provide Details: Be prepared to provide:
- Your full name and contact information.
- Your address for service area verification and site visit planning.
- A brief description of the tree work required e.g., “large oak tree needs pruning,” “tree removal after storm damage,” “stump grinding”.
- Any specific concerns or details about the tree or property e.g., “tree near power lines,” “access is limited”.
Site Visit: Davefordtreecare.co.uk emphasizes a “complimentary inspection and quote from a fully trained arborist/tree surgeon.” This site visit is crucial. An arborist will:
- Assess the Tree: Evaluate its health, structure, species, and size.
- Assess the Environment: Consider access, proximity to structures, overhead lines, and ground conditions.
- Discuss Your Needs: Understand your objectives for the tree work.
- Identify Potential Issues: Look for TPOs, Conservation Areas, or any other regulatory requirements.
Receive Written Quotation: Following the site visit, you will receive a detailed, written quotation outlining:
- The specific work to be carried out.
- The equipment to be used.
- The timeline for the work.
- The total cost, including waste removal and any necessary local authority application fees.

It’s crucial to understand that these quotes are customized.

There isn’t a “standard price list” for tree care, as each job is unique.

Always ensure the quote is comprehensive and covers all aspects of the work discussed.

Davefordtreecare.co.uk vs. Competitors

When considering Davefordtreecare.co.uk, it’s beneficial to see how they stack up against other tree care service providers in the market, especially within their operational regions of South London, Surrey, and West Sussex. Rugsfactory.com Reviews

The comparison often boils down to a balance of accreditation, service range, local reputation, and pricing.

Accreditation and Professional Standards

Davefordtreecare.co.uk holds a significant advantage with its Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor status. This is a benchmark that sets them apart from many smaller, less regulated tree surgeons.

Davefordtreecare.co.uk: Strongest point. AA Approved Contractor, BS3998 compliant, fully insured, continual training. This signifies a high commitment to safety, quality, and industry best practices. This level of accreditation is often preferred by local councils, commercial clients, and discerning homeowners.
Typical Smaller/Local Tree Surgeons: May or may not hold formal accreditations. Some might be NPTC qualified which covers specific operational skills like chainsaw use and insured, but lack the comprehensive audit and vetting of the AA scheme. Their quality can vary widely.
Larger, National/Regional Firms: Some larger firms may also hold AA accreditation or similar certifications, indicating a strong commitment to professional standards across multiple branches. Examples include companies like Glendale or Bartlett Tree Experts though the latter operates mainly in the US. These firms often have larger crews and more extensive equipment pools.

Service Range and Specialization

While many tree surgeons offer core services, specialized expertise can be a differentiator.

Davefordtreecare.co.uk: Offers a comprehensive range of general tree surgery services, coupled with specialized knowledge in Ash Dieback and Oak Processionary Moth OPM. This specialization is highly valuable in affected areas. Their ability to handle TPO applications is also a key added service.
Typical Smaller/Local Tree Surgeons: Often focus on common tasks like pruning, felling, and stump grinding. They might have less specialized knowledge in complex tree diseases or the administrative requirements for protected trees.
Larger, National/Regional Firms: May have dedicated departments for plant health care, including disease diagnosis and treatment, and can often handle very large-scale commercial or municipal contracts.

Customer Service and Local Reputation

This is where direct client feedback and accessibility become crucial.

Davefordtreecare.co.uk: Website highlights their commitment to understanding client needs and delivering the best service. Their complimentary inspection and quote process is customer-centric. However, without a readily available collection of public online reviews, assessing their broader customer service reputation requires direct inquiry or personal recommendation.
Typical Smaller/Local Tree Surgeons: Often rely heavily on word-of-mouth referrals. Their customer service can be highly personalized but might vary based on individual operators. Online reviews are often found on local directories or social media.
Larger, National/Regional Firms: May have more structured customer service departments, but potentially less personalized contact than a local firm. They often have extensive online review profiles.

Pricing and Value

Pricing is highly variable, but the level of service and accreditation can influence value.

Davefordtreecare.co.uk: Pricing is based on a free, on-site quotation, which is standard. Their AA accreditation suggests that while they may not be the cheapest option due to investments in training, insurance, and equipment, they offer strong value through high-quality, safe, and professional work. Investing in a highly qualified service can prevent costly errors or re-work later.
Typical Smaller/Local Tree Surgeons: Can sometimes offer lower prices due to less overhead or informal operational structures. However, clients must carefully vet their insurance, qualifications, and safety practices, as cheaper options can lead to higher risks or unsatisfactory results.
Larger, National/Regional Firms: Their pricing can be competitive for large-scale projects due to economies of scale, but for smaller residential jobs, they might be similar to or slightly higher than accredited local firms.

Conclusion on Comparison

Davefordtreecare.co.uk positions itself as a premium, reliable choice for tree care in its service areas, primarily due to its Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor status. This level of accreditation, combined with comprehensive services and specialized knowledge, makes them a strong contender, particularly for clients who prioritize safety, professionalism, and guaranteed quality. While smaller, unaccredited firms might offer lower initial quotes, the potential risks associated with uninsured or unqualified work can far outweigh the savings. For projects requiring expertise, adherence to safety standards, and formal handling of protected trees, Davefordtreecare.co.uk provides a compelling value proposition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas does Davefordtreecare.co.uk service?

Davefordtreecare.co.uk services South London, Surrey, and West Sussex.

Is Davefordtreecare.co.uk an accredited tree surgeon?

Yes, Davefordtreecare.co.uk is an Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor, which is a highly recognized standard for professional tree work in the UK.

Are Davefordtreecare.co.uk’s tree surgeons fully insured?

Yes, the website states that their teams of arborists and tree surgeons are fully insured.

What types of tree services does Davefordtreecare.co.uk offer?

They offer a comprehensive range of services including tree inspections, tree surgery, tree felling and removal, pruning crown lifting, reduction, thinning, pollarding, deadwood removal, hedgerow management, stump removal, planting, and emergency tree work. Emsoninc.com Reviews

Do they offer free quotes?

Yes, Davefordtreecare.co.uk offers a complimentary inspection and quote from a fully trained arborist/tree surgeon for all new inquiries.

Can Davefordtreecare.co.uk help with Ash Dieback?

Yes, they are recognized local experts in Ash Dieback and can identify and advise on the issue.

Do they handle Oak Processionary Moth OPM issues?

Yes, they can identify and advise on Oak Processionary Moth OPM and other tree-related fungal diseases.

Does Davefordtreecare.co.uk adhere to British Standards?

Yes, they work to industry standard BS3998, which provides recommendations for tree work.

What kind of equipment does Davefordtreecare.co.uk use?

They invest in top-of-the-range specialist equipment including mobile elevated work platforms MEWPs/cherry pickers, ropes and harnesses, cranes, chippers, and stump grinders.

How does Davefordtreecare.co.uk handle waste removal?

They aim to quickly clear and recycle as much of the wood as possible from the tree work.

Does Davefordtreecare.co.uk assist with Tree Preservation Orders TPOs?

Yes, they carry out local authority checks for Tree Preservation Orders TPOs and Conservation Areas and submit all relevant applications for your works.

Is Davefordtreecare.co.uk suitable for commercial properties?

Yes, they provide services for various properties including gardens, commercial properties, schools, and academies.

How long has Dave Ford Tree Care been in business?

While the website doesn’t state a specific founding year, their company registration number OC346328 suggests they have been registered since at least 2009.

Are their arborists continually trained?

Yes, the website highlights that their teams undergo continual training to ensure up-to-date practices. Milanartinstitute.com Reviews

What is the Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor standard?

It is one of the most highly recognized standards for professional tree work in the UK, recognizing a commitment to safety, quality, and environmental responsibility.

Do they perform risk assessments before work?

Yes, they ensure all works are carefully risk assessed both at the quotation stage and also on the day of works.

Can Davefordtreecare.co.uk help with tree planting?

Yes, they offer services for tree replacement and planting schemes.

What is crown lifting?

Crown lifting is a pruning technique to remove the lowest branches of a tree to increase the clearance beneath the crown.

What is crown reduction?

Crown reduction is a pruning technique used to reduce the overall height and/or spread of a tree’s crown.

What is tree pollarding?

Tree pollarding is a severe pruning method that involves removing the upper branches of a tree, promoting a dense head of foliage and branches.

Davefordtreecare.co.uk Reviews