What Does a Certified Arborist Do? A Homeowner’s Guide

Trees are a valuable part of your landscape—but when problems arise, it can be hard to know who to call. This is where certified arborists come in.

If you’ve ever wondered what does a certified arborist do, this guide explains their role, how they help maintain tree health, and how they differ from general tree service providers.

What Is a Certified Arborist?

A certified arborist is a trained tree care professional who has passed a rigorous examination and meets the standards set by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). This credential demonstrates both knowledge and practical experience in all aspects of tree care—from planting and pruning to disease diagnosis and risk assessment.

Unlike general landscapers or tree service crews, certified arborists follow recognised industry standards and are committed to ongoing education. They’re equipped to handle complex issues affecting tree health, safety, and structure.

Certified Arborist Services: What They Cover

Certified arborist services go beyond simple tree trimming. These professionals assess the condition of trees, identify issues early, and recommend appropriate care plans to maintain long-term health.

Common services include:

• Tree risk assessments
• Tree pruning based on structure and species
• Tree health and disease diagnostics
• Soil and root analysis
• Storm damage evaluations
• Removal recommendations (when necessary)
• Tree preservation planning for construction sites

Whether your goal is to improve safety or promote healthy growth, an arborist can provide expert guidance tailored to each tree on your property.

Tree Health Assessment by an Arborist

A tree health assessment by an arborist is a comprehensive evaluation of a tree’s condition. During this process, the arborist inspects:

• Leaf health and colour
• Branch structure and weight distribution
• Trunk integrity (looking for cracks, rot, or cavities)
• Root flare and soil stability
• Signs of pests or fungal infection

This assessment helps homeowners understand whether their trees are thriving or at risk. It also provides clear next steps—whether that’s treatment, trimming, or safe removal.

Benefits of Hiring a Certified Arborist

Hiring a certified arborist offers several key advantages over using general contractors or tree services:

• Accurate Diagnosis: Arborists are trained to identify early signs of disease, decay, or structural weakness.
• Preventive Care: Proactive trimming and soil care reduce the risk of future problems.
• Safety Expertise: Arborists use safe, science-based methods for tree removal and branch management.
• Long-Term Value: Regular assessments can extend the life of mature trees and protect your landscape investment.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Certified arborists understand local tree protection laws and can guide you through permits or preservation plans.

The benefits of hiring a certified arborist go well beyond short-term fixes. They provide a full-spectrum approach to tree care, balancing health, safety, and sustainability.

Arborist vs Tree Service: What’s the Difference?

Many people use the terms “arborist” and “tree service” interchangeably—but there are key differences.

If you’re dealing with diseased trees, safety concerns, or long-term maintenance needs, an arborist provides a deeper level of expertise.