Finding affordable tree-trimming takes time

Sun., June 1, 2008

Samantha Mazzotta King Features Syndicate

Q: My yard has three great old trees whose branches are reaching well out over the street. The city recently sent me a notice that these branches will have to be trimmed back. I don’t mind being asked, but I can’t afford a tree-cutting service on a fixed income. What are my options? — Barry F., Winter Park, Fla.

A: Trimming away tree limbs, removing dead trees and other large-scale tree maintenance tasks are definitely jobs that should be handled by professionals — particularly when removing limbs over public streets and around power lines. But the price for such services can be steep.

Your first call should be to the city itself, to find out if there are any tree maintenance programs in place that will defray some of the cost of de-limbing those trees.

The city might also have a program for senior citizens to help pay for home repair and maintenance costs. Other nonprofit assistance organizations also might be able to help.

Notices like this can be appealed to the city, so to avoid any fines while searching for assistance, go ahead and ask for an appeal.

Be sure to mention that you are having financial difficulty.

Cities with historic districts may have grant programs in place — if your home is located in a designated historic district, find out if you qualify for any property improvement grants.

In any case, you’ll have to do some homework, fill out paperwork, make a few phone calls and be determined to get a clear answer on obtaining financial assistance.

Additionally, once you’re ready to hire a tree maintenance service, ask for a written estimate and the service’s license number, and don’t allow any work to be performed until you have agreed to and signed the estimate.

HOME TIP: Property improvement loans and grants are sometimes offered by city and state organizations, as well as the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), to defray some of the costs of home maintenance and repair.

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