We don't publish fixed prices, and you should be cautious of any tree surgeon who does. The cost of tree surgery depends on too many variables to quote accurately without seeing the job, but we can give you a clear picture of what those variables are.
What Affects the Price?
Tree size
The single biggest factor. A small ornamental tree is a very different job to a mature oak. Size affects the number of operatives needed, the time required, the volume of waste produced, and the complexity of the work.
Access
Can a chipper get close to the tree? Is there a gate wide enough for equipment? Is the tree in a back garden with no vehicle access? Difficult access increases labour costs significantly: material that can be chipped and driven away in an hour from a roadside location might take half a day from a restricted site.
Type of work
A crown reduction on a standing tree is very different from a full fell and removal. Climbing work (where a platform can't be used) takes longer. Work close to buildings, utilities or boundary walls requires extra care and usually more operatives.
Waste removal
What happens to the material? Do you want logs left on site, chipped in situ, or everything removed? Removal takes time and costs money, but if you have a use for the logs or wood chip, it can reduce the overall price.
Species
Some species are harder to work with than others. Oak is heavy and dense. Leylandii produces enormous volumes of material. Certain species also have seasonal restrictions (nesting season) that affect when work can be carried out.
Rough Price Ranges
As a very rough guide, and these figures vary considerably by job:
- Small tree pruning or crown reduction: £150–£400
- Medium tree crown reduction: £300–£700
- Large tree crown reduction: £500–£1,200+
- Small tree felling and removal: £200–£500
- Large tree felling and removal: £600–£2,500+
- Stump grinding (small): £80–£150
- Stump grinding (large): £200–£400
- Hedge cutting (domestic): £80–£300 depending on length and height
These figures are indicative only. The only reliable way to get a price is to have the job assessed in person, which is why we offer free no-obligation site visits.
Red Flags in a Quote
- A price given over the phone without seeing the tree
- No mention of insurance or qualifications
- Cash-only payment requested upfront
- No written quote provided
- A price significantly below all other quotes: tree surgery requires proper equipment, trained personnel and insurance; if the price doesn't reflect that, something's missing
What to Ask For
- Written, itemised quote
- Confirmation of £10M+ public liability insurance
- Evidence of NPTC/Lantra qualifications
- What happens to the waste
- Confirmation that any TPO/Conservation Area checks have been made
Free No-Obligation Quote