Tree work can range from relatively straightforward pruning through to removing a large tree beside a house, fence, powerline or other structure.
For property owners, that makes choosing an arborist different from simply finding someone with the equipment to cut down a tree. Qualifications, the proposed method, site conditions, council requirements, cleanup and the clarity of the quote can all matter.
If you are researching tree services around Melbourne, Harry’s Yard is one business worth looking into.
The family-owned business says it has been caring for Melbourne trees since 1998 and has completed more than 20,000 jobs across Melbourne and surrounding areas.
What does Harry’s Yard do?
Harry’s Yard provides a broad range of arborist, tree and garden services.
Its listed services include:
- tree removal
- tree pruning and tree surgery
- stump grinding and removal
- 24/7 emergency tree services
- land clearing
- palm removal and pruning
- wood chipping and mulching
- garden maintenance
- arborist reports and tree consulting.
This range may be useful for Melbourne property owners whose project involves more than one type of work.
For example, removing a tree may also leave a stump that needs grinding before an area can be replanted, landscaped or paved. Other properties may need pruning rather than complete removal, while some council or insurance situations may call for a formal arborist report.
Why Harry’s Yard may be worth considering
One of the more useful things to look at when comparing tree services is whether the business regularly handles the type of work your property requires.
Harry’s Yard says its arborists undertake standard residential work as well as higher-risk and more complicated removals, including trees in confined spaces, on steep slopes and near buildings, fences and powerlines.
The business also lists experience with large-scale jobs, including multi-tree removals, substantial stump removal projects and emergency fallen trees.
According to Harry’s Yard, every job is performed by qualified and experienced arborists using equipment that can include grinders, rigging systems and cranes where required.
That breadth of work makes the business relevant to people researching anything from routine pruning through to more involved tree-removal projects.
Harry’s Yard has been operating in Melbourne since 1998
Longevity is one factor some people consider when researching a trade or property service.
Harry’s Yard says it has operated as a family business since 1998 and has completed more than 20,000 jobs during that period.
The company also reports a 5.0-star Google rating from 144 verified reviews.
Online ratings can be a useful research signal, but they should not be the only factor in a decision. It is worth reading recent reviews yourself, particularly comments relating to jobs similar to yours, and checking the latest rating directly before engaging any provider.
Written quotes before tree work begins
Understanding what is included in a tree-service quote can make comparisons easier.
Harry’s Yard says it provides free, transparent written quotes before work starts. This allows property owners to understand the proposed work and cost before proceeding.
When comparing quotes from arborists, it can also be useful to ask whether the price covers matters such as:
- removal of branches and debris
- stump grinding, if required
- access or equipment requirements
- traffic or site management
- council permits or reports
- disposal or retention of mulch and timber
- GST and any other applicable charges.
Two quotes that appear different in price may not necessarily include the same scope of work.
Tree permits and Melbourne council requirements
Tree-removal rules can vary across Melbourne councils, and some properties may also be affected by planning controls, heritage considerations or rules relating to significant trees.
Harry’s Yard says its team is familiar with Melbourne council requirements, heritage overlays and permit processes and can advise clients about compliance before work starts.
However, property owners should still confirm requirements applying to their particular property and proposed work. Where approvals are required, clarify who is responsible for obtaining them before authorising removal or major pruning.
Emergency tree services in Melbourne
Storms, damaged limbs and fallen trees can create situations where tree work becomes more urgent than routine garden maintenance.
Harry’s Yard advertises emergency tree services 24 hours a day, seven days a week for storm damage, fallen trees and hazardous situations.
If there is an immediate danger involving live electrical infrastructure, serious property hazards or risks to people, contact the appropriate emergency service or electricity network operator rather than approaching the site yourself.
For non-life-threatening tree emergencies, Harry’s Yard may be one Melbourne arborist to contact when researching available assistance.
What should you check before hiring an arborist?
Melbourne Guide is designed to help readers begin their research rather than make the final decision for them.
Before choosing Harry’s Yard or another tree service, consider checking the information relevant to your particular job.
That can include the arborist’s qualifications, insurance, proposed approach, current availability and whether council permission is required.
For larger or more complex trees, ask how the work will be carried out and what measures will be used to protect nearby structures, gardens and other parts of the property.
You should also confirm exactly what will happen to the stump, timber, branches and other debris after the job.
Is Harry’s Yard right for your property?
Harry’s Yard may be particularly relevant to Melbourne homeowners, landlords, property managers and businesses looking for an established arborist that handles both everyday tree maintenance and more involved removal work.
Its listed services cover pruning, removals, stump grinding, emergency work, land clearing and formal arborist reports, giving customers several tree-related services through the one business.
Whether it is the right provider for you will depend on your tree, property, budget, timing and any regulatory requirements involved.
The practical next step is to explain the job, request a written quote and compare the scope with other providers you are considering. Visit harrysyard.net.au to review its current services and make an enquiry, or contact the business directly for a written quote.
