What is a certified arborist?
A certified arborist is a tree care professional who has earned a credential through a recognized certification program and follows professional standards for tree health, risk evaluation, and care recommendations.
When a certified arborist is the right starting point
- ✓Tree risk or safety concerns near people, homes, or structures.
- ✓Unexplained decline, pests, or dieback that need diagnosis.
- ✓High-value or legacy trees where preservation matters.
- ✓Large pruning decisions that affect structure or long-term health.
When a general tree service may be enough
- ✓Routine cleanup with clear scope and no risk concerns.
- ✓Basic pruning after you already have an arborist plan.
- ✓Known dead trees where no diagnosis is needed.
- ✓Follow-up work guided by a written recommendation.
What a video consult can and can’t do
We focus on practical, safe guidance and clear next steps.
What a consult covers
- ✓Symptom review using your photos and live video.
- ✓Risk triage and safety guidance based on visible conditions.
- ✓Prioritized recommendations aligned with professional standards.
- ✓Clear next steps and how to talk with local providers.
What it does not replace
- ✓On-site measurements, drilling, or lab testing.
- ✓Immediate emergency response for hazardous trees.
- ✓Permit or code compliance assessments.
- ✓Hands-on work performed by local crews.
Clear deliverables after your consult
Our goal is to leave you with a confident, prioritized plan.
Priority list
What to address first, what can wait, and why.
Risk guidance
Clear safety considerations based on visible conditions.
Care recommendations
Actionable steps aligned with professional best practices.
Next-step plan
How to work with local providers after the consult.
Certified arborist FAQs
Common questions about credentials and remote consults.
What is the difference between a certified arborist and a tree service?
A certified arborist provides diagnostic and risk guidance based on professional standards, while a tree service typically focuses on execution of a known scope.
Can a certified arborist diagnose a tree over video?
Many issues can be narrowed down through symptoms and context. Some problems require on-site inspection or lab testing.
What should I prepare before the consult?
Photos of the whole tree, close-ups of symptoms, your location, and any recent changes like construction or storms.
Do you guarantee a diagnosis?
No. We provide professional guidance and likely causes based on available information, but some conditions need further testing.
Is a video consult safe for storm damage?
It is useful for initial triage. If the tree is actively failing or threatening safety, contact local emergency services or a local tree professional.
Will I receive a written plan?
You will receive clear, prioritized recommendations and next steps for your specific situation.
Can you recommend a local provider?
We can help you understand how to talk with local providers and what questions to ask based on your consult.
How do you match me to the right arborist?
We match by region and experience so your consult reflects local species, pests, and climate conditions.