What is an Arborist or Tree Removal Specialist?
An Arborist or Tree Removal Specialist is a qualified professional who manages the safe removal, pruning, or treatment of trees. They ensure the work is done safely, legally, and with minimal impact on the surrounding environment, especially when local council permits are required.


What does an Arborist or Tree Removal Specialist do?
Your Arborist or Tree Removal Specialist will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.
Typically, an Arborist or Tree Removal Specialist will:
- Assess the health and stability of trees on your site
- Advise if tree removal is necessary or if alternatives like pruning are suitable
- Prepare reports for council permit applications if required
- Perform tree removal or major pruning safely and efficiently
- Manage waste removal and site cleanup after tree works
Choosing a qualified professional ensures your project stays compliant with local regulations and that tree works are carried out safely.

Barry's Toolbox
Always check if your local council requires a permit for tree removal — even if the tree is dead or dangerous. An experienced Arborist can often help you navigate council rules and speed up approvals.
What to look for in an Arborist or Tree Removal Specialist
When reviewing quotes, look for:
- Qualifications: Ensure they hold a Certificate III in Arboriculture or higher.
- Insurance: Confirm they have public liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
- Council knowledge: Familiarity with local tree preservation orders or council regulations is essential.
- Safety standards: Look for contractors who adhere to WHS standards and use proper safety gear.
- Site management: Check if their service includes removal of green waste and stump grinding if needed.
Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready
To get quotes from Arborists or Tree Removal Specialists, you’ll need:
- Site address and project overview
- Details or photos of the trees involved (species, size, location)
- Any local council guidelines on tree removals (if applicable)
- Development consent conditions (if tree removal is part of your DA or CC)
Average Timeframe
For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within
7-10
business
days.
When Can I Expect Quotes?
Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.
Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).
If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I always need council approval to remove a tree?
Many councils require permission before you can remove or prune significant trees, even on private property. An Arborist can guide you through this process.
What happens to the removed tree material?
Most specialists include green waste removal in their quotes. Some also offer optional services like stump grinding and mulching.
How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1
Review and Adjust the Scope of Works
Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2
Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded
Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3
Update the Quality Assurance Checklist
Go to the
Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4
Request Quotes
Click the
orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5
Review the Quotes
Once you receive quotes:
- Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
- Download attached quote documents for detailed review
- Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6
Communicate with the Pro
If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7
Accept a Quote
Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8
Complete the Tasks In Your App
New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the
Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your
contract and
final Scope of Works whenever needed.
NEED HELP?
Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro
If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.
If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.

