Invoice templates for tree surgeons covering residential tree work, tree felling, emergency callouts, stump grinding, and commercial contracts.
A tree surgeon invoice records fees for the physical maintenance, removal, and care of trees. Tree surgeons — also called arborists in their specialist advisory capacity — carry out hands-on work including felling, pruning, bracing, cable installation, deadwooding, and emergency storm damage response. UK tree surgeons must hold appropriate NPTC chainsaw qualifications and carry specialist insurance. While arborists focus on both the advisory and practical aspects of tree management, tree surgeons are primarily hands-on practitioners. Residential tree surgery is the largest market, with homeowners seeking tree work for safety, aesthetics, and garden management. Emergency callouts for storm-damaged trees command a premium rate, particularly outside normal hours.
| Service | Typical Rate | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Tree surgeon day rate (2-man crew) | 550 | day |
| Tree felling and log rounds (per tree, up to 10m) | 380 | tree |
| Hedge trimming (per metre, both sides) | 5 | metre |
| Stump grinding (per stump) | 140 | stump |
| Emergency callout (out of hours) | 950 | callout |
| Green waste removal (per trailer load) | 110 | load |
| Log rounds left on site (discount / removal charge) | -50 | credit/charge |
Tree surgeons typically invoice on completion of the work, with payment expected on the day or within 7 days. For domestic clients, cash or bank transfer on the day is common. For larger or multi-day projects, a 25–30% deposit at confirmation is appropriate. For commercial contracts (grounds maintenance for schools, housing associations), issue monthly invoices for all work completed under the contract. Keep site visit records as backup in case of any disputes about work carried out. Emergency callouts (storm damage, fallen trees on properties or roads) should be invoiced immediately at the emergency rate. These clients are often distressed — be clear about pricing at the point of engagement, not after the work.