The Homeowner’s Guide to Tree Felling & Removal: Your Top Questions Answered

Trees are a beautiful, vital part of our landscape, but there comes a time when letting one go is the safest and most practical option. Whether you are dealing with a storm-damaged oak or a backyard cherry tree that has outgrown its space, tree removal is a major undertaking.

To help you navigate the process, we have compiled the most common questions our team at Central Tree Surgeons gets asked about tree felling and removal.

1. When does a tree actually need to be felled or removed?

At Central Tree Surgeons, our default approach is always to preserve a tree whenever possible. However, removal becomes necessary if a tree becomes a hazard. The most common reasons include:

• Disease and Decay: Advanced rot can compromise the trunk or root system.

• Structural Damage: Severe storm damage or large splits make the tree unstable.

• Safety Proximity: The tree is growing too close to buildings, power lines, or public pathways.

• Landscaping & Light: Sometimes a tree simply blocks natural light, outgrows a garden, or needs to be cleared to make way for new building and landscaping projects.

  
  

2. What is the difference between "tree felling" and "dismantling"?

This comes down to the space available:

• Straight Felling: If there is plenty of open space, the tree can be safely cut from the base and dropped in one controlled direction.

• Sectional Dismantling: In residential gardens or tight spaces near property, straight felling isn't safe. Instead, our climbers carefully cut the tree down piece by piece from the top, using ropes and rigging to lower branches to the ground methodically without risking nearby property.

3. Is Central Tree Surgeons fully insured?

Yes, absolutely. Tree felling carries inherent risks, and falling timber can endanger property if not handled by professionals. We are a fully insured, limited company with over 40 years of experience, meaning your property and the public are entirely protected while we work.

4. What happens to all the branches and wood waste after the tree is cut down?

You won’t be left with a messy garden! We take full responsibility for the aftercare. Our team clears, chips, and disposes of all resulting green waste and timber, leaving your site clean, safe, and ready for you to use.

5. Do you automatically remove the tree stump?

Felling a tree leaves a stump at ground level. While the standard felling service removes the tree itself, we highly recommend adding our Stump Grinding service. Removing the stump prevents the tree from regrowing, eliminates a tripping hazard, and leaves the ground completely flat and easy to maintain or replant.

6. Where do you operate, and how can I get a price?

We are based in Wishaw and proudly cover both North and South Lanarkshire. Because every tree is a different size and sits in a different environment, we offer FREE site visits and assessments. We will come out to inspect the tree, discuss the safest method for removal, and provide a no-obligation quote.