If you’re like most of us, you probably don’t look at your trees and think, “Hmm—how much are these worth?” And if you were to ask that, you may wonder, “How could I even calculate a dollar value?”  

Often, it doesn’t really matter…until it does.

When is it important, then? Maybe your trees have been vandalized, or illegally removed, or struck by a vehicle, and you’ve initiated a claim with your insurance company. Maybe chemicals have drifted or leached from a neighboring property, damaging or killing them. Perhaps they’ve been hit by a storm or wildfire. Or maybe you’re just curious how they affect the value of your property.

In any case, there are guidelines for their valuation. As an ASCA Tree and Plant Appraisal Qualified arborist providing appraisals for attorneys, landowners, insurance companies, HOAs, and more, I can help.

The process usually starts with a phone call, during which you and I discuss the situation, its background, and relevant details. Next, we’ll schedule a site visit, and I’ll gather as much useful data as possible. This can include physical measurements (height, trunk diameter, crown spread), as well as tree condition ratings—based on qualitative factors such as health, structure, and form, as well as site-, locality-, and species-specific limitations.

From here, I will determine the most reasonable appraisal approach, crunch numbers, and produce a formal report.

Tree Appraisal FAQs:

What if my (or my client’s) tree(s) are no longer present?

I’ll usually reply with the following questions:

• Do you have photographs of the tree(s)?

• Do you have records of tree maintenance?

• How personally familiar are (were) you with the tree(s)?

• Are tree stump(s) still present?

  —Etc.

Without clear, recent evidence of trees in their pre-damage condition, an appraisal’s accuracy may be limited, but solutions exist. Aerial imagery is often referenced in cases of tree removal—especially in rural areas. Sometimes extrapolations of tree species, sizes, and planting density can be performed by referencing areas near or adjacent to the removed trees.

Do you only provide this service in the Boise area?

• Nope! My appraisal services are available for cases nationwide, with emphasis on California, the Pacific Northwest (Idaho, Oregon, Washington), the Mountain West (Arizona, Colorado, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming), and Alaska. If you’re out-of-state and want to determine whether I’m available for the task at hand, I’d love to discuss it with you.

I’m representing a plaintiff or a defendant in litigation. Can you guarantee a valuation that favors my client?

• Negative. While the outcome may favor your client’s position, diligent appraisers prioritize reasonableness and credibility over all other factors. If you encounter an arborist who does guarantee this, be wary; their testimony may prove counterproductive. This is why a pre-assignment conversation is imperative for both parties (client and expert).

Other questions?

Let’s get in touch!