Tree Surgeon in London (30)

On average, a tree surgeon in the UK charges £40 per hour, while a team of three typically costs £120 per hour.

In some areas, such as London, rates may be slightly higher, especially in central areas.

The cost of your tree surgery services can vary based on a few things, such as:

• Tree size and condition
• Type of work (removal, trimming, disease treatment)
• Access issues (tight spaces, height)
• Waste disposal
• Qualifications and experience of the tree surgeon
• Area/borough and demand levels

A tree surgeon is a trained specialist who maintains, treats, and removes trees safely and professionally.

Tree surgeons in London typically work on residential gardens, public parks, woodlands, and business parks, offering a wide range of services:

• Tree pruning and trimming
• Tree felling and dismantling (sectional or full)
• Stump grinding and removal
• Tree planting
• Timber milling
• Diagnosing and treating diseases
• Removing dangerous or storm-damaged limbs

Tree surgery is high-risk work that often involves climbing trees, using chainsaws at height, and working around properties. It takes proper training, equipment and insurance to do the job safely.

That’s why it’s important to hire a checked and qualified tree surgeon in London you can rely on.

Not all tree surgeons are equal. Here’s how to find someone who’ll get the job done right:

• Ask for recommendations from neighbours, family or other tradespeople
• Read reviews on Checkatrade to see real feedback from homeowners like you
• Check qualifications and insurance; don’t just take their word for it
• Get at least 3 quotes to compare price and approach
• Ask about British Standards: BS 3998:2010 and BS 5837:2012 show professional practice

You can also post your job to tree surgeons in the local London area, and let them come to you.

Tree surgery isn’t something anyone can do safely without training.

In the UK, qualified tree surgeons in London should hold some, or all, of these key certificates:

• CS30: Chainsaw maintenance and basic cross-cutting
• CS31: Felling small trees
• CS38: Climbing and aerial rescue
• CS39: Using a chainsaw from a rope and harness

Some tree surgeons in London may also have diplomas or certifications in arboriculture from City & Guilds or LANTRA, which reflect broader knowledge of tree care and health.

Insurance is equally important as qualifications for tree surgery.

At the very least, your London tree surgeon should have up-to-date public liability insurance. This protects you if something goes wrong, for example, if a branch damages your roof or fence.

When you hire through Checkatrade, every tradesperson has verified insurance in place. Plus, if you contact or pay a member through us, you may be covered by the Checkatrade Guarantee (up to £1,000. T&Cs apply).

For peace of mind, always ask for proof of insurance before work begins.

Need help finding an insured tree surgeon in London? Use our search tool or request quotes today.

Responsible tree surgeons in London will recycle or repurpose as much waste as possible:

• Chipping branches into mulch
• Cutting logs for fuel or donation
• Taking green waste to licensed sites

It's a good idea to ask if removal is included in the price. Some may charge extra. If you prefer, you can use a garden waste removal service.

You might see both terms come up in your search for London tree services, but there is a difference.

A tree surgeon is hands-on. They climb trees, cut branches, fell diseased trees and carry out practical maintenance.

An arborist, also called a tree arborist or arboriculturist, focuses more on the science of tree care. They assess tree health, advise on planting and species management, and create long-term care plans. Arborists in London often work closely with councils, developers, or environmental organisations.

In simple terms? Arborists analyse and advise. Tree surgeons take action. Some tradespeople may be qualified in both, but if you need a tree removed or trimmed, you’re looking for a tree surgeon.