Tree Removal Costs and Pricing Overview
Tree removal can look straightforward until you factor in height, access, nearby structures, and cleanup. This pricing overview explains common cost ranges, what usually drives estimates up or down, and how homeowners can read quotes more confidently across different regions and property types.
Removing a tree can be a straightforward day’s work or a complex, multi-crew operation requiring traffic control and specialised equipment. Prices vary widely across the United Kingdom due to tree size, access, risks, and location. This guide breaks down how costs are formed, the typical ranges you might encounter, and how published UK price guides compare, so you can interpret quotes with confidence.
Tree removal costs and pricing overview
Most domestic tree removals are costed per job rather than per hour. For straightforward work on small trees, many homeowners see totals in the low hundreds of pounds, while large or complex removals can run into four figures. Quotes usually cover labour, equipment (such as chippers and rigging gear), site protection, and green waste disposal. Stump grinding is often optional and priced separately. VAT may apply depending on the business.
Average costs to cut down a tree
While every job is unique, UK price guides commonly reference these ballpark figures: - Small tree removal (up to roughly 8–10 metres): about £150–£350. - Medium tree removal (around 10–15 metres): about £400–£800. - Large or mature tree removal (15 metres+ or complex access): about £650–£1,500+, sometimes higher where risks are significant. - Stump grinding: roughly £75–£350 per stump depending on diameter and access; large stumps can exceed this. These ranges assume reasonable access, no protected status, and typical waste volumes. Expect higher figures in dense urban areas, for emergency callouts, or where traffic management is needed.
Factors that influence tree removal pricing
Several variables shape a quote: - Height, spread, and species: Bigger canopies and denser hardwoods (like oak or beech) often mean longer cutting time and heavier timber handling. - Access and rigging: Restricted gardens, fragile surfaces, or proximity to glasshouses, sheds, or conservatories may require sectional dismantling with rigging, increasing labour. - Risk and complexity: Trees entangled in utilities, storm-damaged stems, or decay cavities require slower, more controlled work and additional gear. - Waste handling: Chipping on-site and removing arisings is commonly included; extra charges may apply for unusually high volumes or log removal. - Stump removal: Grinding is an add-on; larger stumps or tight access increase cost. - Location and timing: London and the South East often price higher; urgent and out-of-hours work typically attracts premiums. - Permissions: Works on trees with a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or in conservation areas require consent. Scheduling and admin can affect lead times, even if there’s no fee for the application.
What homeowners typically pay in the UK
For a modest suburban garden job—say, removing a small ornamental tree with straightforward access—totals commonly fall between £200 and £350. A mid-size tree requiring sectional dismantling and careful rigging might land between £500 and £900. Removing a large, mature tree overhanging structures can exceed £1,200, particularly if multiple climbers and a larger chipper are needed. Stump grinding for a typical small-to-medium stump often adds £100–£250 when purchased with the felling. These are indicative ranges; request written, itemised quotes that specify waste removal, stump options, and VAT.
Prices: how guides compare
Different UK sources publish cost ranges compiled from member feedback, trade input, and historic jobs. Their figures are not prescriptive but can help you benchmark quotes. Regional variance is normal, and the lowest price is not always the best value if it compromises safety, insurance, or aftercare.
The following comparison summarises common services and published UK guide ranges from well-known sources.
| Product/Service | Provider (UK price guide) | Cost Estimation |
|---|---|---|
| Small tree removal (up to ~8–10 m) | Checkatrade | £150–£350 |
| Medium tree removal (~10–15 m) | HouseholdQuotes | £400–£800 |
| Large/mature tree removal (15 m+) | MyBuilder | £650–£1,500+ |
| Stump grinding (per stump) | Checkatrade | £75–£350 |
| Emergency call-out uplift (typical) | HouseholdQuotes | +20–50% |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
Additional budgeting tips
- Ask for proof of insurance and relevant qualifications (for example, NPTC/LANTRA certificates). Competence and cover are risk controls, not optional extras.
- Clarify inclusions: Are logs left on-site, is brash chipped and removed, and is stump grinding included? Confirm any extra charges for difficult access or protected surfaces.
- Combine tasks: If you have several trees or hedges to manage, grouping work can be more efficient than separate visits.
- Plan for permissions: If you suspect a TPO or conservation-area status, allow time for consent before scheduling the crew.
Conclusion
Tree removal pricing in the UK is driven primarily by size, access, and risk, with typical jobs ranging from the low hundreds to well over a thousand pounds for larger or more complex work. Using reputable price guides as a sense-check and securing clear, itemised quotes helps align expectations with the realities of safe, insured arboricultural work.
