{"id":462172,"date":"2025-12-21T12:29:21","date_gmt":"2025-12-21T12:29:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/462172\/"},"modified":"2025-12-21T12:29:21","modified_gmt":"2025-12-21T12:29:21","slug":"homeowners-urged-to-be-cautious-when-hiring-tree-removal-services-for-storm-cleanup-kiro-7-news-seattle","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/462172\/","title":{"rendered":"Homeowners urged to be cautious when hiring tree removal services for storm cleanup \u2013 KIRO 7 News Seattle"},"content":{"rendered":"

Wash. \u2014 Washington State is still recovering from historic flooding, followed by strong winds, and now residents face another concern – unstable trees. Saturated ground can make even previously healthy trees a hazard.<\/p>\n

As homeowners look for help removing damaged trees, consumer advocates warn that this is also a prime time for scams.<\/p>\n

Door-to-Door Tree Services Can Be Risky:<\/b><\/p>\n

After a storm, tree removal is one of the busiest times of year \u2014 but it can also be the riskiest for your wallet. Damaged trees are everywhere, and companies may start knocking on doors, offering to remove them.<\/p>\n

Experts say homeowners should never hire someone who shows up uninvited, especially if the company is asking for cash up front. <\/p>\n

Kevin Brasler with Checkbook.org<\/a> warns they could disappear with your money. Checkbook is a nonprofit that provides unbiased ratings, reviews, and undercover price research. <\/p>\n

Brasler says even if the work is done, the wrong hire could leave you financially responsible for accidents or damage.<\/p>\n

\u201cThese people who go door to door, even if you have a tree lying across your yard and they\u2019ll offer to take care of it, don\u2019t hire these companies. They usually are con artists. They\u2019ll say, \u2018If you give me five hundred dollars, I\u2019ll be back with my crew \u2014 they\u2019re just around the corner.\u2019 You\u2019ll never see them again,\u201d Brasler said. <\/p>\n

Protect Yourself When Hiring a Tree Service:<\/b><\/p>\n

Even if a company is legitimate, experts advise that you should always be the one selecting who does the work. Tree removal is dangerous, and choosing the right professional is critical for safety and financial protection.<\/p>\n

Here\u2019s what homeowners should do:<\/p>\n