If you’ve ever wondered, what is an arborist?—you’re not alone. Many people think of tree work as simple cutting. But there’s much more to it. Arborists are trained tree professionals. We care for trees. We help them grow strong and healthy. And we make sure they’re safe around your home.
At Strobert Tree Services, we work with certified arborists every day. We know the difference proper care makes. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What does an arborist do?
An arborist is a tree expert. Our job is to understand trees, diagnose problems, and care for them properly.
We prune limbs to improve tree health and shape. We remove dangerous or dead branches. We spot early signs of disease or insect damage. And when a tree needs to come down, we do it safely.
Arborists don’t just cut trees—we manage their long-term health.
Some common tasks include:
- Pruning for shape and safety
- Tree removal
- Tree planting and advice on species
- Disease diagnosis and treatment
- Cabling and bracing weak limbs
- Storm preparation and cleanup
Think of us as tree doctors. We don’t guess. We assess, plan, and act with care.
Where Arborists Work
Arborists work wherever there are trees that need care—whether in cities, suburbs, or the countryside. You’ll find us maintaining large and complex trees in city parks, trimming branches near power lines in busy urban landscape settings, or helping homeowners with overgrown yards.
We’re called to school grounds to keep students safe, and to business complexes to protect landscaping investments. In rural areas, we manage trees that support ecological communities or farmland. Sometimes, we even assist in forensic investigations involving fallen or damaged trees.
Our tools are just as varied as our job sites. We often use specialised vehicles like a Unimog or a power take-off driven woodchipper to navigate tight spots and get the job done. Whether we’re shaping a tree for beauty or removing one for safety, arborists adapt to every landscape ecosystem with expert care.
Are Arborists Certified?
Yes—many arborists choose to become certified. Certification means we’ve studied and passed exams about tree care. It also means we follow high safety and ethical standards.
The most well-known credential is ISA Certified Arborist. ISA stands for International Society of Arboriculture. This certification requires:
- Years of experience in tree care
- A written exam on tree biology, pruning, safety, and more
- Continuing education to stay up to date
At Strobert Tree Services, we only use certified arborists for tree health evaluations. That way, you get expert advice—not guesswork.
What Qualifications Do You Need to be an Arborist?
There are a few paths into this field. Some arborists start with hands-on experience. Others earn degrees in forestry, horticulture, or environmental science.
To become a certified arborist, you typically need:
- At least three years of full-time tree care experience
- Or a combination of education and experience
- Passing scores on a comprehensive exam
- A commitment to follow safety and ethics standards
Beyond certification, many arborists also have:
- First aid and CPR training
- Electrical hazard awareness (for work near power lines)
- A commercial driver’s license (for large trucks and equipment)
It’s a serious profession. Trees can be beautiful—but they can also be dangerous. That’s why training matters.
Professional Organizations and Support
Behind every great arborist is a network of support. Professional organizations and apprenticeship programs help arborists grow in their careers and stay up to date with the latest skills. Groups like the Arboricultural Association and the Institute of Chartered Foresters set the standard for quality work. They run approved contractor schemes, offer certifications, and connect arborists with trusted training.
Many arborists get their start through a nationally recognized arborist apprenticeship program. These programs combine classroom learning with real-world experience. Botanical gardens, municipal tree departments, and commercial tree care companies often partner in these efforts.
Support doesn’t stop at training. Government agencies and utility companies work with certified arborists to keep trees safe around power lines and public spaces. Industry standard certification keeps everyone accountable, and that helps homeowners too.
Legal and Safety Considerations
Tree work isn’t just about chainsaws and ladders—it’s also about following the law and keeping people safe. Arborists must follow local rules, especially when dealing with protected trees or heritage trees. In many areas, you need permission from local authorities before removing or heavily pruning a tree. If the tree sits on a property line, boundary issues or disputes regarding tree ownership can arise. That’s why it’s important to know who owns what before any work begins.
Public safety is another concern. Trees near sidewalks, roads, or power lines must be handled carefully. Cabling and bracing may be used to support weak limbs and prevent accidents.
Insurance is a must—for both the property owner and the tree service company. If something goes wrong during tree removal or pruning, liability issues can be serious.
Professional arborists also help with tree protection plans during construction, making sure tree roots and trunks aren’t damaged. They ensure safe removal of trees or limbs while minimizing risk to people, property, and the surrounding environment.
At Strobert Tree Services, we take these legal and safety issues seriously. We follow regulations, carry full insurance, and always put safety first—for you, your neighbors, and your trees.
Do I Need an Arborist if I Just Want My Tree Cut Down?
It depends. Cutting down a tree seems simple. But it’s often more complex than people realize.
Is the tree near your house? Power lines? A road? Are the branches heavy or leaning?
Arborists know how to remove trees safely and legally. We assess risk. We use proper gear. And we follow local regulations.
Even if you just want a tree gone, hiring a certified arborist gives you peace of mind. You’ll avoid costly damage—or worse, injury.
Also, an arborist might find ways to save the tree. Sometimes, proper pruning or treatment can bring it back to health. We give you the full picture so you can decide.
Get a Free Estimate on Certified Arborist Services
If you've been searching what is an arborist because you're worried about a tree on your property, you're in the right place. At Strobert Tree Services, our certified arborists are trained to handle everything from tree pruning and removal to disease treatment and storm damage. Whether your tree is growing too close to the house, showing signs of illness, or you’re planning to plant a new one, we’re here to help. We take pride in offering honest, expert advice based on years of experience.
Every job starts with a free estimate, so you’ll know exactly what to expect. Don’t take risks with your trees—get in touch with Strobert Tree Services today and let our team give your landscape the care it deserves.
Contact Strobert Tree Services
Don’t leave tree work to chance. Contact us for a free estimate from a certified arborist. We’ll walk your property, answer your questions, and give you honest, expert advice.
Whether your trees need pruning, removal, or healthcare—we’re ready to help.
Call Strobert Tree Services today and put your trees in safe, professional hands.
