Frequently
Asked Questions
Clear answers about tree care, our process, and what you can expect when hiring Palm Squad in the East Valley.
Are you insured?
Yes. Palm Squad carries comprehensive commercial general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. This protects your property and every person on the crew while we are on site. Ask to see the certificate before we start — a legitimate, insured contractor will always hand it over.
Do you provide free estimates?
Absolutely. We will come walk your property, assess the trees, and provide a firm, written quote with zero obligation. Most quotes are delivered within 24 hours of your request. For a faster rough estimate, text photos of your trees and property access to us directly.
What is included in the price of tree removal?
Our tree removal quotes are all-inclusive unless explicitly stated otherwise. The price covers safely felling the tree, chipping branches on site, hauling away the heavy logs, and raking or blowing the area clean. Stump grinding is usually quoted as a separate line item — ask us to add it when you request your estimate.
How much does tree trimming or removal cost?
Tree work pricing depends on tree size, species, location relative to structures, and site access. A small palm frond cleanup can run a few hundred dollars; a large shade tree removal in a tight backyard costs more. We give firm, written quotes before any work begins — the quote is the price, no surprise add-ons mid-job.
Can you do emergency tree work after a storm?
Yes. We prioritize hazardous storm damage year-round: trees leaning on roofs, blocking driveways, or threatening walls. For urgent jobs, call or text us directly at 480-685-0676 instead of using the online form so we can respond as fast as possible.
When is the best time of year to trim palm trees in Arizona?
Late spring — April through early June — is the ideal window. Trimming just before Arizona's monsoon season removes heavy seed pods that act like sails in high winds, reducing risk of frond drop. Avoid trimming in the dead of summer when heat stress is highest. In general, one good annual trim is all a healthy palm needs.
Why do my palm trees look skinny or bare after trimming?
That 'lion-tailed' look is caused by 'hurricane cutting' — a harmful practice where inexperienced crews remove healthy green fronds. Palm Squad removes only dead or dying fronds (hanging below horizontal) and seed pods. Stripping green fronds stunts growth and leaves the palm vulnerable to Arizona's intense summer sun and wind.
What is the difference between tree trimming and tree removal?
Trimming removes dead, crossing, or overgrown branches to improve health, safety, and appearance while keeping the tree standing. Removal is a full takedown when a tree is dead, diseased, structurally compromised, or simply unwanted. If you are unsure which your situation calls for, we will walk you through the options on the estimate visit — we will never push removal on a tree that just needs a trim.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property?
It depends on your city. Gilbert, Chandler, and Mesa each have their own tree ordinances, particularly for trees above a certain trunk diameter or located in a right-of-way or floodplain. We can advise you on local requirements during the estimate visit. In most single-family residential cases on private property, no permit is required.
Will you haul everything away after the job?
Yes, cleanup is always included in the price. Our crew chips branches into the truck, hauls logs, and rakes or blows the area clean. We do not leave piles of debris for you to deal with. The yard should look cleaner when we leave than when we arrived — if it does not, we are not done.
Do you work with HOAs?
Yes. We work on HOA-governed properties throughout the East Valley and understand that some associations require advance approval for tree work, specific chipping or haul-away methods, or a certificate of insurance. We can provide our insurance certificate directly to your HOA on request. Just let us know any requirements when you reach out.
What areas do you service?
We proudly serve the greater East Valley, including Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, and Tempe. If you are just outside that list, ask us — we can sometimes accommodate neighboring communities depending on the size of the job.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, check, and major credit cards. Payment is due upon completion of the job. No deposit is required for standard residential work — you pay only after the job is done and you are satisfied.
What should I expect on the day of the estimate?
Travis will walk your property with you, look at each tree you want addressed, and discuss your options. He will note any access concerns, proximity to structures, and what the job involves. You will receive a written quote — usually the same day or within 24 hours. There is no pressure and no obligation.
What should I do to prepare for the crew's arrival?
Clear a path to each tree: unlock gates, move vehicles or patio furniture that could block equipment, and let us know about any underground utilities or irrigation lines near the work area. If a neighbor's yard needs to be accessed, a quick heads-up to them beforehand is always appreciated. Other than that, we handle the rest.
Still have a question?
Talk to Travis directly. We reply within 24 hours, and there is never any obligation.