Tree work is high-risk, high-trust, and high-value. A proposal that identifies species, assesses risk, specifies equipment, and details safety measures justifies premium pricing and separates ISA-certified arborists from the guy with a chainsaw.
Species identification, DBH (diameter at breast height), estimated height, canopy spread, health condition (good, fair, poor, dead/dying), location hazards (power lines, structures, fences, other trees). Number of trees. Note any signs of disease, pest infestation, structural weakness, or root damage. This assessment is the foundation of the proposal.
Type of service per tree: removal (full removal to ground, including stump or not), pruning (crown reduction, deadwooding, thinning, raising), cabling/bracing, stump grinding (diameter, depth). For pruning: specify percentage of crown removal (never exceed 25% in one season). Use ISA terminology — it signals credibility.
How the work will be performed: bucket truck access, climbing with ropes and saddle, crane-assisted removal for large/hazardous trees. Stump grinder size. Chipper for brush. Log handling: cut to firewood lengths, haul away, or leave for client. Note if any equipment needs access through gates, over lawns, etc.
Drop zone clearance, rigging plan for sections near structures, traffic control (if street-side), power line coordination (utility company notification if within 10 feet), personal protective equipment. For removals near structures, describe the sectional dismantling approach. Insurance: general liability, workers' comp, and property damage coverage.
Per-tree pricing with species, size, and service specified. Stump grinding priced separately (per stump by diameter, or flat rate for multiple). Haul-away vs leave debris. Crane rental (if needed, per day). Permit fees (some municipalities require tree removal permits). Clearly separate removal, pruning, and stump grinding so the client can prioritize.
Specify what's included: all brush chipped and removed, logs cut and hauled or stacked, sawdust raked, lawn rake and blow. What's not included: lawn repair, replanting, fence repair. For stump grinding: backfill with grindings and seed, or haul away grindings and backfill with topsoil (priced differently).