What Qualifications Should a Tree Surgeon Have?
Hiring a tree surgeon isn’t just about finding someone with a chainsaw — it’s about trusting a qualified professional to carry out dangerous work safely, legally, and to a high standard. At Original Tree Services, we often speak to customers who didn’t realise there are specific qualifications and insurances a tree surgeon should have. So here’s what you need to know.
🎓 Why Qualifications Matter in Tree Surgery
Tree surgery (or arboriculture) is a highly skilled trade that involves working at height, using dangerous machinery, and managing risks to people, property, and wildlife. Poorly done tree work can lead to:
- Injury or death
- Irreparable tree damage
- Legal fines (e.g. for damaging protected trees)
- Property damage or neighbour disputes
Qualified tree surgeons have the training to do the job safely, correctly, and legally — and that protects both you and your trees.
✅ The Key Tree Surgery Qualifications to Look For
When hiring a tree surgeon, always ask for proof of the following NPTC/Lantra certifications (nationally recognised in the UK):
1. Chainsaw Maintenance & Cross-cutting (CS30)
Covers safe maintenance and use of a chainsaw on the ground.
2. Felling Small Trees (CS31)
Allows the user to fell trees up to 380mm (15 inches) in diameter.
3. Climbing & Aerial Rescue (CS38)
Required for anyone working at height or rescuing a colleague in an emergency.
4. Using a Chainsaw from a Rope and Harness (CS39)
Covers climbing and cutting techniques used during sectional dismantling and pruning.
📜 Other Useful Certificates and Courses
- First Aid +F (Forestry) – First aid training adapted for outdoor tree work
- Woodchipper Training – Safe operation of timber chippers
- MEWP (Cherry Picker) Use – For working on trees from mobile platforms
- Traffic Management Certification – Essential for roadside tree work
- ROLO/CSCS Cards – Required for working on construction sites
📋 Insurance and Professional Standards
Even with all the right tickets, a professional tree surgeon should also be:
- Fully insured with public liability (at least £5 million)
- Compliant with LOLER (equipment inspections)
- Working to British Standards (BS3998) for tree work
- Experienced and able to provide references
At Original Tree Services, we meet or exceed all of these standards.
🚫 Beware of Rogue Traders
Unfortunately, the tree surgery industry isn’t tightly regulated — so it’s not illegal for someone to call themselves a “tree surgeon” without any training. That’s why it’s essential to:
- Ask for certificates and insurance
- Avoid cash-in-hand deals with no paperwork
- Get a written quote and scope of work
- Choose a reputable local business with good reviews
🌳 Trust the Professionals at Original Tree Services
We’re proud to be fully qualified, insured, and highly experienced tree surgeons based in Bedfordshire. Our team holds all the necessary NPTC certifications, follows best practices, and always puts safety first.
If you want expert advice, safe work, and excellent results — get in touch today.
📞 01234 924964
🌐 www.originaltreeservices.co.uk
📍 Serving Bedford, Milton Keynes, Dunstable, Hitchin, and surrounding areas.
