When a tree looks unhealthy, suffers damage, or needs work near your home, should you call an arborist or a tree service?
An arborist evaluates trees and recommends appropriate care. A tree service provides the crews and equipment needed to complete the work. Because many full-service tree companies employ arborists, homeowners can often receive both types of help from one company.
Arborist vs. Tree Service
Here is the practical difference for homeowners:
| Comparison | Arborist | Tree Service |
| Main role | Evaluates tree health, structure, and care needs | Completes tree work using trained crews and appropriate equipment |
| What they provide | Tree evaluations and care recommendations | Pruning, removal, stump grinding, storm cleanup, and emergency work |
| When to call | When you are unsure what is wrong or what the tree needs | When you know what work needs to be done |
Some arborists also perform pruning, removal, and other tree work, so the distinction is not always absolute.
An ISA Certified Arborist has earned a professional credential from the International Society of Arboriculture. The credential demonstrates that the arborist has met ISA’s knowledge and skill requirements. Credential holders must also follow the organization’s Code of Ethics.
When Should You Call an Arborist?
Call an arborist when you need professional guidance about a tree’s condition or care. Arborists can help by:
- Evaluating tree health
- Assessing structural concerns
- Recommending proper pruning
- Identifying possible pest or disease problems
- Evaluating possible root damage
- Advising whether to preserve or remove a tree
An arborist may recommend pruning, monitoring, treatment, or removal based on the tree’s condition and location.
If a tree suddenly leans after a storm, has broken or hanging limbs, or threatens a structure, keep people away and contact an emergency tree service promptly.
Learn more about working with ISA-certified arborists in Maryland.
When Should You Call a Tree Service?
Call a qualified tree service when the work requires an experienced crew and specialized equipment. Services may include:
- Tree pruning and trimming
- Dead or hazardous tree removal
- Broken or hanging limb removal
- Emergency tree service
- Storm damage cleanup
- Stump grinding
- Crane-assisted tree removal
Work on large trees may involve climbing, rigging, or lowering heavy branches around roofs, driveways, fences, and landscaping.
If you know what work needs to be done, a tree service may be the best starting point. If you are unsure what the tree needs, choose a company with arborist expertise.
Can One Tree Care Company Provide Both?
Yes. A full-service tree care company may employ arborists to evaluate trees and trained crews to complete the recommended work. This allows homeowners to receive an informed recommendation and have the work completed by the same company.
ISA certification is a voluntary professional credential, while Maryland’s Licensed Tree Expert designation is a state license. In Maryland, companies that provide tree care for compensation generally must operate under a Licensed Tree Expert. Employees working under that expert’s supervision may not need individual licenses.
Need an Arborist or a Tree Service in Maryland?
If you are deciding whether to call an arborist or a tree service, Nelson Tree Specialist can evaluate the situation and recommend the appropriate service. We combine certified arborist knowledge with experienced crews to provide professional tree trimming, tree removal, stump grinding, and other tree care services across our Maryland service area.
If a tree appears unhealthy, storm-damaged, or unstable near your home, call Nelson Tree Specialist at 301-854-2218 or request a free tree service quote today.