Tree questions, answered

Rocky Mount and nearby towns including Nashville, Wilson, and Tarboro. See the service areas page for details on each town.

Nothing. Call or send us a message through the chat on this site, and there’s no obligation to book the work.

Call your landlord or property manager first. Trees are usually the owner’s responsibility, and they may already have a tree service.

A photo or a good description of the tree’s size and location often gets you a ballpark price over the phone. Big or tricky removals may still need a look in person.

Stay away from it and call your electric utility. Inside Rocky Mount that’s the city’s electric utility; in Nashville it’s Duke Energy Progress. Treat every downed wire as live.

It depends on the tree’s size, its condition, and what’s around it. A small tree in an open yard costs far less than a large oak over a roof. Call with a description or a photo for a free estimate.

Usually not for a tree in a typical residential yard, but rules differ by town, and trees in the street right-of-way or in historic districts can be different. See our licensing and permit resources page, or ask when you call.

Haul-away is usually available. Some homeowners keep the logs for firewood. Say which you want when you get your estimate.

Ask any tree company for proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation before work starts. It protects you if something goes wrong on your property.

If anyone is hurt or a wire is down, call 911. Then call your insurance company and a tree service. The crew can get the tree off and help protect the opening until a roofer arrives.

Calls are answered 7 days a week. The crew will tell you what has to happen right away and what is safer to do in daylight.

It depends on the situation and the insurance policies involved. If the tree damaged your property, start with your own insurer. They’ll sort out whether the neighbor’s policy is responsible.

Many mature shade trees do well with a trim every three to five years. Trees over the roof or driveway may need it more often.

Not within 10 feet of the line. Inside Rocky Mount, the city’s electric utility asks homeowners to call it first, (252) 467-4800, and it trims along its lines on a regular cycle. Outside the city, call your own electric provider.

Not when it’s done right. Proper cuts and removing no more than needed keep the tree healthy. Topping and over-thinning are what cause harm.

Usually several inches below grade, enough to cover with soil and grass. Ask for deeper grinding if you plan to plant a new tree or build in that spot.

It’s better to plant a few feet away. The old roots and chips break down over time and can leave the soil uneven.

Often it’s priced separately. Ask for both prices on your estimate.

It depends on the size of the job, the location, and what you’re building. Check with your town or county before a large clearing project.

Yes. Selective clearing removes brush, vines, and small trees while protecting the trees you want to keep.

By the size of the area, how dense the growth is, and what happens to the debris. A site visit is the best way to get an accurate number.