Terms of Service

Welcome to DeForest Tree Service. By requesting a quote, scheduling services, or authorizing work, you (the "Client") agree to the following Terms of Service with DeForest Tree Service ("the Contractor").

1. Scope of Work

The Contractor shall provide the services specified in the written proposal/estimate provided to the Client. Any additional work requested by the Client that is not outlined in the original proposal will be subject to a separate estimate and additional charges.

2. Licensing and Insurance

The Contractor is fully licensed to operate in Virginia Beach and the State of Virginia. We maintain comprehensive general liability insurance and Workers' Compensation insurance as required by Virginia law. Proof of insurance is available upon request.

3. Safety and Site Conditions

Access: The Client must provide clear access to the work area for personnel, trucks, and heavy machinery (e.g., bucket trucks, chippers).

Underground Utilities: Per Virginia law, the Contractor will contact the appropriate utility location service for the marking of public utility lines. However, the Contractor is not responsible for damage to unmarked private lines (including, but not limited to, irrigation/sprinkler systems, septic tanks, underground lighting, or private electric/water lines) unless their location was mapped out and provided to the Contractor in writing prior to the commencement of work.

Property Damage: While we take every precaution to protect your property (using ground mats where applicable), tree care involves heavy equipment. The Contractor is not responsible for minor ruts in turf or cracks in driveways that occur during the normal course of tree operations.

4. Tree Removal and Stump Grinding

Stump Grinding: Unless specifically stated in the proposal, stump grinding is not included in tree removal.

Stump Debris: If stump grinding is performed, the resulting mulch/chips will be backfilled into the hole. Haul-away of stump mulch is an additional service and must be requested in advance.

5. Permitting

Depending on the location and the species of the tree, a permit may be required.

The Client is responsible for obtaining all necessary HOA approvals.

Unless otherwise agreed in writing, the Client is responsible for obtaining and paying for any required municipal tree removal permits.

6. Scheduling and Weather

Tree work is highly dependent on weather conditions. In the event of high winds, heavy rain, or lightning, the Contractor reserves the right to reschedule for the safety of the crew.

7. Hurricane/Storm Emergency Work

In the event of a named storm or declared emergency:

a. Standard rates may not apply to emergency hazard removal.

b. Estimates provided during emergency "storm mode" are valid for 48 hours only.

8. Payment Terms

Payment is due in full upon completion of the work described in the proposal.

A late fee of 10% may be applied to invoices unpaid after 30 days.

9. Debris Removal

The Contractor will remove all debris resulting from the specified work unless otherwise noted in the "Clean-up" section of the proposal. We comply with all County Solid Waste regulations regarding the disposal of horticultural waste.

10. Cancellation Policy

The Client must provide at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations. If the Contractor arrives on-site and is unable to perform work due to lack of access or Client cancellation, a "trip fee" of $75 may be charged.

11. Governing Law

These terms shall be governed by the laws of the State of Virginia. Any disputes arising from these services shall be resolved in the courts of Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Contact Information

If you have questions regarding these terms, please contact us at:
DeForest Tree Service
(757) 553-1864
[email protected]
3764 N Landing Rd
Virginia Beach, VA 23456

Serving Virginia Beach For Many Years