Tulsa Better Business Bureau Warns Of Fly-By-Night Tree Removal Services

The Better Business Bureau has a warning for homeowners dealing with tree damage after this week's storms.

It's easy to be overcome by emotion after a tree falls on your property, especially if it's laying across your roof. But the BBB says it's important to go through a checklist before making a decision.

Gaylyn Wattman is dealing with quite a mess on her property.

"I can't even remember what day it is," she said.

Her favorite tree was snapped in half early Wednesday morning and landed on her roof. Her first step was to find someone to get rid of the debris and remove her tree.

She said two different people knocked on her door, offering to do the job, but each one seemed shady.

7/24/2013 Related Story: Tulsa Insurance Agent Answers Questions About Who Pays For Tree Damage

"It's really sad, because it gives the profession a bad name," said Tim Nall.

Nall owns We B Trees. It's been an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau in Tulsa, since 2008.

Nall said it's typical for fly-by-night tree trimming companies to show up after a storm, but he also said there are steps you can take to make sure the company is legitimate.

First off, see if the company is a member of the BBB, and then make sure its insured, but get the certificate directly from the insurance agent and not a company employee.

"Because I could have canceled my insurance. They could have canceled me," Nall said.

Nall also said to beware if they ask for money up front, before they start work, or while the work is ongoing.

The BBB says take your time when choosing a tree trimmer. Don't feel pressured or let your emotions get the best of you.

And Nall says to be wary of door-to-door salesmen.

"Normally, a company that has a good reputation doesn't drive down the street looking for work," Nall said.

Wattman said it's easy to get overwhelmed, but adds, if you do your best to stay calm, it will work out for the better.

"[You] just have to extract yourself from everything else in your life and focus just on this. There's certain checklists in order of things that you have to do," Wattman said.

The BBB says to get at least three estimates before making a final decision.

Get more tips from the BBB here