Having a tree felled: from the decision to site handover
Height is only part of the job. A free-standing tree on accessible land differs from a damaged tree between a house, overhead line and neighbouring property. Define what should be removed and how the site should be left.
Clarify the decision and identify the trees
If the decision is still open, an assessment can consider care or support as alternatives. Once felling is intended, the affected trees need to be clearly identified. For several trees, use separate entries with quantities, descriptions and known dimensions.
Dead trees, cracks and storm damage may change the plan. Describe visible observations without having to assess stability yourself. If there is immediate danger, keep clear and arrange appropriate help straight away: a routine quote request is not an emergency service.
Check permissions and protection before work
Private ownership does not automatically mean a tree can be removed without checks. Municipality, canton, protection status, previous conditions and location may matter. Replacement planting may also be required. Ask the responsible authority what applies to your tree.
Quotes can be requested while these checks are underway. State their status and agree who prepares documents and any applications. Occupied nests and protected habitats need to be considered. Do not transfer a blanket felling season from another country to the Swiss location.
Whole-tree felling and sectional removal differ
The contractor assesses the tree and surroundings before deciding whether it can be felled whole or must be dismantled. Limited space, fragile surfaces or nearby buildings may require controlled lowering of sections and additional equipment.
You do not need to select a crane or climbing technique in the request. Direct access, narrow passages, steps, overhead lines and public paths are more useful information. Equipment positions, barriers and possible coordination with utility operators must be clarified before the work is planned.
How much does tree felling cost?
Felling, removal of material and stump work are separate services. A low starting price may cover only felling. Compare totals for the same scope, including travel, equipment, disposal and stated VAT.
A single Swiss price per tree would tell little without its size, condition and surroundings. Difficult sites should be inspected before a binding fixed price. For time-based work, agree hourly rates, team size, machinery charges and approval of additional work.
| Item | Scope to clarify |
|---|---|
| Felling | Whole or sectional removal; necessary protection included? |
| Trunk timber | Remove, leave on site or cut to an agreed length? |
| Branches | Remove, chip or leave unprocessed? |
| Stump | Leave, grind or excavate? |
| Finish | Remove chips, backfill and reinstate the surface? |
Plan timber handling and future use together
Keeping wood on the property does not automatically remove all subsequent costs. Cutting, splitting and storing firewood are additional tasks. Agree whether trunk sections will simply be set aside or prepared as usable logs.
A stump normally remains unless removal is included. If the area will become a lawn, planting site or structure, agree suitable removal and ground preparation. Shallow grinding does not remove the entire root system.
Recognising a useful quote
The quote should identify the trees, material handling, work left out and agreed date. For demanding jobs, ask about similar experience and suitable liability cover.
Clarify which access routes must stay free and who arranges any necessary consents. At handover, compare the result with the agreed scope, particularly the remaining stump, timber and ground condition.
Frequently asked questions
Is stump removal automatically included?
No. Order and describe it explicitly. Grinding depth, material removal and reinstatement also need to be agreed.
Can the trunk stay while branches are removed?
Yes. The form records trunk timber and branch handling separately.
Do I need permission before requesting quotes?
No. State how far the checks have progressed. Necessary checks and approvals must be completed before work begins.
Do I need to choose the felling method?
No. Describe the tree and surroundings. The contractor will decide which method is safe and suitable after assessment.
