How Does Pricing Work?
Pricing is flexible and depends on customer goals. At the end of the day, an estimate reflects how long the estimator thinks the job will take. At Pando, we usually give you an itemized quote with fixed pricing. Options and discounts are available.
Pricing at a glance
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Tree Removal | Request a quote, $200 minimum. |
| Pruning | Request a quote, $200 minimum. |
| Stump Grinding | $6.00 per inch of diameter, $145 minimum |
| Planting | $100 per person per hour |
| Vine Removal | $100 per person per hour |
| Risk Assessment | $45 base fee + $95 per hour |
| Soil Analysis | $55 for 1st sample ($15 for each additional sample) + ($15 to $120) per analysis |
| Root Crown Excavation | $95 per tree |
| Dynamic Cable Installation | $300 and up for large trees, $100 for ornamental trees |
Why do we need to meet in person for a quote?
Every tree poses unique challenges, most of which require on site evaluation. Tree work is dangerous! When an estimator arrives, they inspect trees for subltle hazards like fungus and structural hazards. Estimators also need to assess obstacles like structures, walkways, vehicles, and power lines. Beyond jobsite inspection, it is always beneficial to discuss customer needs on site and in person.
Are Quotes really free?
Every tree service advertises free estimates. At Pando, we arrange an in person meeting betweem you and our estimator to discuss the tree work you are interested in. Afterwards, we will send you a document detailing our proposed costs. If you decide to not have the work done, you do not owe anything.
Why is tree work expensive?
Jobs usually require speciallized equipment, skilled workers, significant hazard, and time. Good arborists, like the ones at Pando, are extensively skilled in tree biology, pruning and rigging techniques, aerial rescue, heavy equipment operation, artistic vision, electrical hazards, ethics, and athleticism. Due to the high level of inherent risk when it comes to tree work, arborists also need hefty insurance policies. Although quotes are free, they take time and that time is incorporated into the cost of a quote.
What factors affect the price?
- Hazards of the work to be performed. Some trees are more dangerous than others.
- Amount of material. Certain trees have denser canopies than others. Spruce trees grow very thick and produce a lot of material.
- Location. Dragging tree debris from the back of the back yard adds time. If the tree is over a structure, then complex rigging may be required to ensure safety of property.
- Damage protection. Sometimes obstacles, such as a fence, are cheaper to replace than they are to protect.
- Difficulty Some work, homeowners can do. Some work requires high level skill.
Fixed quotes vs. Hourly Rates
Hourly rates are generally given when the estimator doesn't know exactly what will be required. In some cases, Pando charges an hourly rate, but usually recommends against it. With a fixed quote, you know exactally what you will get, and how much it will cost. With an hourly rate, you don't know the cost up front or if the work you want done will get finished within your budget. Sometimes customers win with hourly bids, but usually hourly benefits the company. If you prefer an hourly rate, just ask, we'd be happy to arrange it!
What discounts are available?
- Cut n' Leave: Are you able to cut up brush and haul away logs on your own? If so, cut n' leave discounts can be large. With this arrangement we leave all material where it lays and it is up to the customer to cut it up and haul away.
- Leave behind fine debris: normally we conduct a detailed cleanup of the site by removing fine twigs and rakings. You can save a surprising amount by raking the debris on your own.
- Leave Firewood: we can leave behind logs for firewood. Cutting, splitting, and stacking is usually up to the customer (sometimes this ends up being more time for us than hauling it off).
- Neighborly: discounts for nearby customers are built into our price calcuations. Outside a certain proximity we charge $0.11 per mile.
- Military: 5% off for current military and veterans. Present proof of service after tree work is complete and we will adjust the price on the quote to give you the discount.