A tree inspection costs an average of $450 but can range between $150 and $550, depending on location, type of inspection, and accessibility.
Having a tree-lined yard is ideal for privacy and a peaceful landscape, but an unhealthy or unsafe tree can cause a lot of stress and result in costly damages. A tree inspection can put your mind at ease about your trees’ condition and identify any trees that may need to be trimmed or removed before they potentially cause damage. Learn how much a tree inspection costs and what may affect how much you’ll pay.
The cost of a tree inspection can vary depending on the type of inspection, the number of trees, and their accessibility.
Several types of tree inspections are available, varying in detail and intensity. A basic visual inspection from a tree service’s arborist costs an average of up to $100, although some companies may offer this service for free. A routine full inspection that more specifically evaluates a tree’s condition averages between $100 and $250, and an arborist’s report, which is the most in-depth and detailed type, will cost an average of between $350 and $550. Some tree services and arborists may deduct the inspection cost from the price of removal if one is necessary.
| Type of Inspection | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic visual inspection | $0–$100 |
| Routine full inspection | $100–$250 |
| Full arborist report | $350–$550 |
If you have more than one tree you’re worried about or you want an overall health survey of all the trees in your yard, a tree service may offer a discounted rate for inspecting multiple trees in one visit. An overall health survey won’t include an in-depth inspection of each tree, so if the visual inspection identifies any trees with potential problems, you may need to pay an additional fee for a more thorough inspection.
Trees that are hard to access may cost more to assess, especially if your pro charges by the hour. Clearing out the area around obstructed trees can help make them more accessible, but if a tree is far away or remote enough to involve a hike or a climb to access it, expect to pay more.
Average hourly arborist fees range between $100 and $350 an hour. Independent arborists fall on the higher end of that range, while fees for an arborist who works with a larger tree service may be lower. When hiring an arborist, take into account their experience, references, insurance coverage, and fees.
Any homeowner with multiple mature trees on their property should have a tree inspection or survey every five years. If you have trees that are of particular concern, have them inspected more frequently—a checkup every two to three years will confirm if any worrying conditions have progressed far enough to warrant action.
While it’s a good idea to perform regular visual inspections of the trees on your property, only a tree professional can accurately assess the health and safety of your trees. A local tree service has the expertise to diagnose any tree health issues and make recommendations to ensure your trees don’t pose a safety hazard. If you notice anything potentially concerning about a tree on your property, hire a tree removal service for an inspection to keep your home and everyone in it safe.
Tree inspections often result in recommendations for additional services to keep your trees healthy and safe. From tree injections to tree removal, here are some common tree inspection add-ons:
Tree injections: Injections to treat disease and insect infestations cost $50–$130 per tree.
Tree trimming: Trimming or pruning trees ranges between $270 and $1800.
Root removal: Getting rid of tree roots can cost between $180 and $550.
Stump removal: Grinding or removing a stump costs an average of $170–$550.
Tree removal: Removing a tree costs between $200 and $2,000, depending on the size, type, and health of the tree.
Tree safety isn’t something to skimp on, but there are ways to save money on a tree inspection. Arborists may offer a discounted rate for multiple trees inspected at once, so if you have more than one tree of concern, have them all inspected in one visit. Tree services often discount inspection fees if you end up getting trimming or removal services with them, so research local tree services to find one that offers lower-cost inspections.
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The best plan of action for an unhealthy or unsafe tree will depend on its condition. An arborist can recommend whether trimming or removal is the right call for your tree. Preventive tree trimming can keep trees safe and healthy, so make regular tree trimming a part of your yard maintenance plan.
An unsafe tree can cause serious damage to your home and property, so tree inspections are important to ensure your home isn’t in danger from a nearby tree. Unhealthy trees can also be unsafe trees, as diseases and insect damage can compromise a tree’s stability, leading to potential damage and safety risks.
