Cost of Tree Felling Services
across the UK

# Tree Felling Services Accreditation

The main regulatory bodies overseeing tree felling in the UK include the Arboricultural Association, which sets professional standards for arborists and tree surgeons, and the National Association of Tree Officers (NATO), which represents local authority specialists. Additionally, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) enforces strict compliance through the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, meaning all tree felling must follow duty of care requirements. Contractors may also hold Lantra Awards, a nationally recognised qualification for tree work, or be certified under the Logging Operations Standard (PEFC), which demonstrates sustainable practice. These accreditations essentially confirm that a provider has met defined competency levels, follows safe working practices, and maintains proper insurance and environmental responsibility.

Verifying a provider's credentials is straightforward and essential. Ask to see evidence of Arboricultural Association membership, Lantra certification, or relevant diplomas in arboriculture or forestry. Request proof of public liability and professional indemnity insurance—unaccredited providers often lack adequate cover. Check that they hold a valid Health and Safety certificate and can evidence their compliance with local council tree preservation order (TPO) regulations if applicable. You can cross-check credentials directly with the trade bodies themselves. This matters because tree felling is high-risk work; an unqualified or uninsured operator could cause property damage, injury, or legal liability that falls on you, while accreditation confirms they have the expertise to assess hazards, work safely near buildings and utilities, and dispose of waste responsibly.

Accredited tree felling providers typically charge 15 to 30 percent more than unaccredited competitors, reflecting their professional standards, insurance costs, and compliance overhead. This premium is almost always justified. Accredited operators carry proper insurance that protects you from liability if something