Industry standard for pruning operations
(as condensed from the National Arborist Association Standards)
Pruning is to be performed by arborists who, through related training and on-the-job experience, are familiar with techniques and hazards of this work including trimming, maintenance, repairing or removal, and equipment used in such operations. The use of climbing spurs or irons is not approved in pruning operations on live trees. This type of work is a potentially hazardous occupation and is to be undertaken only by trained personnel or under the supervision of trained personnel, all of whom are covered with workers compensation, general commercial liability insurance and errors and omissions insurance.
Arborist reports and consulting/supervision
Our arborists are highly trained and experienced professionals who specialize in the care and maintenance of trees. Our reports provide an expert assessment of your trees and offer recommendations for their care and management. Please note that our arborist reports are intended for informational purposes only and are not a guarantee of tree health or condition. The information in our reports are from trained professional arborists using industry knowledge, education, and generally accepted professional judgments. While we take great care to provide accurate and reliable information, there are many factors that can affect the health and growth of trees that are beyond our control, such as weather conditions, soil quality, and pest infestations. Trees are organic and changeable; therefore, the project arborist gathers data and researched studies using best judgment and reliable information sources available to them on the day of inspection. Site changes (e.g., from extreme weather, tree failures, or construction) that alter tree health and structure may void the contents of a report. Any changes in part or whole to any
report will invalidate the whole document. Reports may also be invalidated if project arborists recommendations are not followed within the recommended timelines noted in the document or if the recommendations are not completed to industry standards. Arborist reports are valid for 6 months from the date of the site visit. Additional site visits and report revisions are required after this point to ensure accuracy of the report. It is the responsibility of the property owner to communicate the correct location of all property lines in order to determine tree ownership for trees on or near property lines. It is also the responsibility of the property owner (or manager) to obtain the necessary permits and consent from neighbouring property owners (where applicable) before carrying out the recommendations in any report.
Our reports are based on a visual assessment of the tree or trees in question, and may also include soil and root testing, if deemed necessary. We will provide you with a detailed report that includes a summary of our findings, recommendations for care and maintenance, and any potential risks or hazards that may be associated with the tree. Please be aware that our arborist reports do not include any guarantees or warranties, either express or implied, regarding the health or condition of the tree. We are not responsible for any damages or losses that may occur as a result of our recommendations, including but not limited to tree death or property damage. We strongly recommend that our customers follow our recommendations for tree care and maintenance to ensure the health and longevity of their trees. If you have any questions or concerns about the information provided in our reports, please do not hesitate to contact us for further assistance.
Arborist reports/consulting and supervision are billed hourly and typically have a retainer fee as per the quote/contract. If a project arborist arrives on site at an agreed upon time for consulting/supervision and workers on the site are not prepared to begin activities that require supervision; or work on the site is delayed or unable to be continued for any unforeseen circumstances our retainer fee still applies. If a project arborist is on site during a work delay any time spent on site past the initial 4 hours will be billed at the hourly rate as per the quote/contract.
Tree planting
Please note that once a tree has left our nursery and has been planted, it is non-refundable and non-returnable. This is due to the nature of the product and the fact that there are many factors outside of our control that can affect the health and growth of the tree, including weather
conditions, soil quality, and pest infestations. While we take great care in selecting healthy trees and planting them properly, we cannot guarantee their survival or growth beyond the initial planting period. Therefore, we cannot be held responsible for any tree deaths or damages that may occur after the tree has been planted. We strongly advise our customers to properly care for their newly planted trees by following our recommended watering, fertilization, and pruning guidelines. If you have any concerns about the health or growth of your tree, please contact us and we will do our best to provide advice and assistance.
Cabling and bracing
Please be aware that cabling and bracing are not guaranteed to prevent tree failure or damage, and there may be risks associated with the installation and maintenance of these systems. The effectiveness of cabling and bracing depends on many factors, including the tree’s size, age, health, and growth habits, as well as the strength and positioning of the cables and rods.
Arbor Solutions is committed to providing safe and effective cabling and bracing services to our customers. We adhere to industry best practices and guidelines for the installation and maintenance of these systems. Our technicians are trained and experienced in the proper techniques and procedures for cabling and bracing trees. However, please be aware that we assume no liability for any damages or losses that may occur as a result of cabling and bracing, including but not limited to property damage, personal injury, or tree failure. We recommend that our customers carry adequate insurance coverage to protect against any potential risks. By agreeing to our cabling and bracing services, you acknowledge and accept the risks associated with these techniques and release our company from any liability for damages or losses that may occur. We strongly recommend that our customers properly maintain their cabling and bracing systems, including regular inspections and adjustments as needed.
Payment
All contracts are accepted upon the agreement that full payment will be delivered on completion of work or within the stated invoice term. Interest may be charged on amount(s) owing after the due date at a rate of 10% per month. All reasonable expenses, disbursements or legal costs incurred by Arbor Solutions in the enforcement of any rights contained in this contract, shall be paid by the customer, including debt collection fees.
Booking Times/Dates
Please be aware that although we do our best to keep the scheduled date and time for your booking, it is possible that your scheduled appointments date and time will need to be moved. We will always do our best to keep your booking as close to the scheduled time and date as possible however it could be moved up to a month from the scheduled date. We will of course notify you ASAP when these changes need to be made and work with you to find the best alternative.
Unforeseen Changes in Tree Health
Please note that weather, age, etc. can drastically change the condition of a tree in a short period of time. During estimation we do our best to assess the current condition of the tree and surroundings; however, there are times when the health of a tree deteriorates by the time we are on-site to complete work and we must readjust our outlined work. These changes will be communicated to you as soon as they are noticed and the changes to the work will be approved by you before it is completed.
Complaints
Any complaints that may arise from work performed under any contract arising from acceptance of the spec/quote/price must be made within seven days of completion of contract.
Protected and environmentally sensitive areas
The subject trees within the contract may be protected by municipal bylaw, provincial mandate or federal authority. When necessary to obtain permission from the relevant landowners/guardians, it will be the responsibility of the tree owner, unless Arbor Solutions is designated as an authorized agent to carry out this service.
We are committed to protecting the local ecosystem whenever possible. Birds and nests are often found in the trees we are working in. Work is sometimes disrupted due to birds nesting in trees particularly during general Nesting Period of March 1 to August 31 to protect the active nesting season of most birds and avoid contravention of the nesting bird protection provisions under the provincial Wildlife Act and the federal Migratory Bird Convention Act.
Private covenants and boundaries
Investigation of private covenants and boundaries shall be the responsibility of the client and no liability shall be attached to Arbor Solutions for a breach of any such covenant or boundary. The client must obtain written permission from all tree owners prior to Arbor Solutions commencing work on the agreed upon contract.
Underground services
Unless the exact location of underground pipes, wires, cables or soak holes has been supplied to Arbor Solutions prior to the formation of the contract, the contractor shall accept no liability for any damage caused for the duration of the contract. The client shall be solely liable for any such damage and subsequent damage to Arbor Solutions’ equipment. Arbor Solutions will file a BC 1 Call dig permit for stump grinding and excavation. This only covers essential infrastructure and does not include private infrastructure such as irrigation, oil tanks, water, septic, etc.
Hidden obstructions
The quote/price is based on the assumption that the trees/stumps are free from metal, stone or other hidden obstructions. In the event of a tree being impossible to work on as stated wihin the contract, Arbor Solutions reserves the right to re-quote accordingly.
Access and property damage
The client accepts full responsibility for their driveways, paths and lawns and understands in order to carry out work specified in the contract, it may be necessary to use heavy machinery that could damage driveways, paths and lawn. Arbor Solutions will take reasonable measures to prevent damage, as per industry duty of care, but will not accept liability for any resultant damage.
WARRANTIES AND DISCLAIMERS
Arbor Solutions warrants that the services it provides will conform to industry standards. NO OTHER WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IS MADE FOR SERVICES PROVIDED BY ARBOR SOLUTIONS, AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES ARE HEREBY EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED. ARBOR SOLUTIONS SHALL HAVE NO OTHER LIABILITY, DIRECT OR INDIRECT, OF ANY KIND FOR SERVICES PROVIDED, INCLUDING LIABILITY FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
Insurance cover
Arbor Solutions is covered by $5,000,000 commercial general liability insurance for damage to persons and property that may result while under contract. Arbor Solutions also carries $2,000,000 professional errors and omissions insurance.
Liability limit
Arbor Solutions liability shall be limited to the maximum amount of the quote/price outlined within the contract.
Wood and wood chips
All woody debris removed from site shall be deemed the property of Arbor Solutions unless specifically agreed in the terms of the contract. Stump grindings are not removed from site unless specifically agreed in terms of contract.
Stump grinding
Stump grinding as defined by Arbor Solutions is; the removal of a tree stump to a depth of 150mm (6in), but does not include the grinding of lateral roots or removal of stump grindings, unless otherwise specified within the agreed upon contract. Stump grinding/removal is not included in the price of quotes/contracts for tree or hedge removals.
Fences
Where a fence requires to be temporarily removed for works to be carried out it, the responsibility of removal and re-erection of the fence, lies with the client, unless otherwise agreed upon within the terms of the contract.
Expiry of quote
30 days after the date of issuance of the quote, Arbor Solutions reserves the right to withdraw and re-quote the contract which may result in a different price given.
Cancellation fee
Arbor Solutions reserves the right to charge a cancellation fee of 33% of the contract price if less than 24hrs notice of cancellation is given.
Deposits prior to work
Arbor Solutions reserves the right to request a deposit prior to the commencement of work as outlined in the job contract.
Arbitration
Should a dispute arise to the interpretation of the contract, it shall be referred to arbitration in accordance with the The Arbitration Act, S.B.C 2020, c. 2. The decision(s) of the arbitrator shall be final and binding upon both parties.
Acknowledgement
By approving a quote/contract from Arbor Solutions, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to be bound by our terms and conditions. If you have any questions or concerns about these terms and conditions, please contact us before approving the quote/contract. Thank you for your business and we look forward to working with you.
Changes to terms and conditions
These terms and conditions are subject to change at any time without prior notice.