Tree work is planned, evaluated, and performed based on site-specific conditions observed at the time of assessment. Each project is assigned a defined scope of work that outlines the services to be performed, the methods required, and any relevant site or safety considerations.

This page explains how scope of work is established, why it is important in arboriculture, and how changes are managed when conditions or requests arise.  

Scope of work development is informed by tree care standards and site-specific conditions.  All work is performed strictly within a documented professional standards and tree risk framework, with no changes to scope permitted without written authorization and corresponding adjustments for safety, labor, equipment, and risk exposure.
 

Why:

A scope of work is a written description of services developed after evaluating:

• Tree condition and structure
   
• Target exposure (homes, structures, utilities, access areas)
   
• Site conditions and access limitations
   
• Required equipment, crew size, and work methods
   

The scope reflects the conditions present at the time of evaluation and is used to plan work safely, efficiently, and in accordance with professional standards.  Scope of work planning is informed by industry safety standards and site-specific risk evaluation. 

A clearly defined scope of work is essential for maintaining safety, efficiency, and accountability throughout a tree care project. In arboriculture, work methods, equipment selection, crew size, and sequencing are directly tied to the scope that is established in advance.

A defined scope of work helps:

• Ensure appropriate safety controls are planned and maintained
   
• Prevent unplanned increases in risk exposure
   
• Allocate labor, equipment, and resources accurately
   
• Maintain consistency with insurance and professional standards
   
• Avoid misunderstandings regarding what work is included
   

Because changes in scope can affect safety, logistics, and risk management, all work is performed according to the approved scope unless a written change is authorized in advance.

Tree work is not interchangeable or open-ended.
Changes in scope affect:

• Safety planning and work sequencing
   
• Equipment selection and setup
   
• Crew allocation
   
• Time requirements and overall risk exposure
   

Because trees are living systems and site conditions vary, a clearly defined scope helps ensure work is performed safely and predictably for both the property owner and the crew.

When applicable, a tree risk assessment is conducted prior to defining the scope of work. This assessment evaluates tree condition, structural integrity, target exposure, and site constraints.

Tree risk assessments represent a snapshot in time and are used to guide decision-making based on observed conditions at the time of evaluation. Findings from this process help determine appropriate work methods, equipment requirements, and safety controls.

Changes to scope may become necessary due to:

• Newly observed site or tree conditions
   
• Safety concerns identified during work preparation or execution
   
• Access limitations or logistical constraints
   
• Client-requested changes or additions
   

No changes to scope of work will be performed without written authorization.
This includes any request that:

• Extends beyond the originally defined scope
   
• Increases risk exposure
   
• Requires additional labor, equipment, time, or resources
   
• Alters work methods, sequencing, or safety controls
   

When a change is identified or requested, the scope is reviewed by the supervising arborist. Any approved change is documented in writing and may require an adjustment to pricing, scheduling, or work methods before additional work is performed.

This process ensures that labor allocation, equipment planning, and risk management remain consistent with professional standards and insurance requirements.

Homeowners are welcome to ask questions about the work being performed; however, crew members do not modify scope or perform additional work based on on-site requests.

All scope changes are handled by the supervising arborist to ensure:

• Safety requirements are maintained
   
• Risk exposure is properly evaluated
   
• Labor and resources are appropriately allocated
   
• Any adjustments are reviewed and documented in advance
   

This approach prevents misunderstandings and allows work to proceed in a controlled and professional manner.

Any changes to scope are documented and confirmed in writing prior to additional work being performed. Verbal requests or informal discussions do not constitute authorization for changes to scope.

Written confirmation ensures clarity for all parties and allows work to continue without disruption or confusion.

Defining and managing scope of work is essential to safe, professional tree care. Clear planning and documentation allow work to be performed efficiently while maintaining safety, accountability, and consistency.

Project-specific scope details and any approved changes are provided in writing and acknowledged prior to work being scheduled or modified.