How to Identify When a Tree Needs to Be Removed

As a homeowner in Central Florida, your trees are valuable assets that provide shade, beauty, and increased property value. However, trees can also become liabilities when they’re damaged, diseased, or structurally compromised. At We Do It All Trees & Landscape, we’ve helped countless property owners throughout Polk and Hillsborough Counties identify and safely remove hazardous trees before they cause damage or injury.

Knowing when a tree needs removal isn’t always obvious, especially to untrained eyes. This guide will help you identify the warning signs that indicate your tree may need professional removal, understand the risks of ignoring these signs, and navigate the permit process in Central Florida.

7 Warning Signs Your Tree May Need Removal

1. Significant Lean or Recent Change in Angle

While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden lean or one that has recently developed is cause for concern. This often indicates root damage or instability in the tree’s foundation.

What to look for:

  • A tree that suddenly leans after a storm
  • Soil heaving around the base of the tree
  • A lean of more than 15 degrees from vertical
  • Cracks in the soil near the tree’s base

Robert from our team recently responded to an emergency call in Lakeland after a 40-foot tree had shifted dramatically following a heavy rainstorm. “The homeowner noticed the tree was suddenly leaning toward their house. We removed it the same day, and when we examined the root system, it was severely compromised from recent flooding. This could have resulted in catastrophic damage had it fallen.”

2. Multiple Dead or Hanging Branches

A few dead branches can be normal and may only require proper trimming. However, if more than 25% of the tree’s branches are dead or hanging, this could indicate a serious health issue.

What to look for:

  • Branches with no leaves during growing season
  • Brittle, easily broken branches
  • Multiple hanging or broken limbs
  • Branches that have already fallen around the tree

3. Trunk Damage and Decay

The trunk is the lifeline of your tree. Significant damage or decay here often means the tree’s structural integrity is compromised.

What to look for:

  • Vertical cracks or splits in the trunk
  • Large sections of missing bark (not just small pieces)
  • Soft, crumbly wood
  • Fungal growth on the trunk
  • Large cavities or hollow sections

In Hillsborough County, we frequently encounter oak trees with extensive trunk decay due to improper pruning techniques used years earlier. These wounds become entry points for decay organisms that gradually hollow out the trunk, often invisible until the tree fails during a storm.

4. Root Problems

Root issues can be harder to spot but are among the most serious problems trees face, especially in Florida’s sandy soils.

What to look for:

  • Fungi or mushrooms growing around the base
  • Exposed, damaged, or decaying roots
  • Recent construction that may have severed roots
  • Signs of root lifting or soil heaving
  • Dead branches starting at the top of the tree (indicates root problems)

5. Pest Infestations or Disease

Central Florida trees face numerous pest and disease challenges that can ultimately require removal.

What to look for:

  • Unusual leaf drop or discoloration
  • Holes in the trunk or branches with sawdust-like material
  • Insect activity around the trunk or branches
  • Cankers or unusual growths on branches or trunk
  • Wilting or dying sections despite adequate water

“We recently handled a severe case in Valrico where a homeowner’s pine trees were infested with bark beetles,” shares our arborist. “By the time they noticed, the infestation had spread to neighboring trees. Early detection could have saved several trees in their landscape.”

6. Signs of Internal Decay

Trees can appear healthy on the outside while suffering from internal decay that compromises their structural integrity.

What to look for:

  • Conks or shelf mushrooms growing on the trunk
  • Carpenter ants or termite activity
  • Hollow sound when tapping the trunk
  • Cavities or hollows visible in damaged areas
  • Cracks that extend into the wood

7. Location Issues and Hazardous Positioning

Sometimes a tree’s location, rather than its health, necessitates removal.

What to look for:

  • Trees growing too close to structures or foundations
  • Trees interfering with power lines
  • Roots damaging sidewalks, driveways, or underground utilities
  • Trees blocking necessary access to your property
  • Multiple trees growing too close together, causing competition

The Dangers of Ignoring Tree Hazards in Central Florida

Florida’s unique climate creates specific risks when it comes to hazardous trees:

Hurricane and Storm Risks

Florida’s hurricane season brings high winds and saturated soils, creating perfect conditions for tree failure. Trees with existing issues are significantly more likely to fall during storms, potentially causing:

  • Damage to homes, vehicles, and other structures
  • Injury to people or pets
  • Power outages from downed lines
  • Blocked emergency access
  • Additional expense and hassle when removed under emergency conditions

Lightning Strike Vulnerability

Central Florida is the lightning capital of the United States, with more strikes per square mile than anywhere else in the country. Trees damaged by lightning may not show immediate signs of failure but can develop serious structural issues over time.

Rapid Decay in Florida’s Climate

Our warm, humid climate accelerates decay processes. What might progress slowly in other regions can advance rapidly here, causing trees to deteriorate faster than many homeowners expect.

When to Call a Professional Tree Service

While some tree issues can wait, others require immediate professional attention:

Emergency Situations Requiring Immediate Action

Contact a professional tree service immediately if you notice:

  • A tree leaning toward your home, especially after a storm
  • Large hanging limbs over areas where people walk or park
  • Trees touching power lines
  • Cracked or split trunks following storms
  • Sudden leaning with soil upheaval at the base

Our 24/7 emergency tree service is available throughout Polk and Hillsborough Counties for situations that can’t wait.

Benefits of Professional Assessment

Even when the situation isn’t an emergency, professional assessment offers several advantages:

  • Expertise in Tree Biology: Professional arborists understand how trees grow, respond to damage, and show signs of decline.
  • Safety Evaluation: Professionals can assess the risk level more accurately than untrained observers.
  • Treatment Options: Sometimes removal isn’t necessary, and treatments or proper trimming can save the tree.
  • Proper Equipment: Professional services have specialized tools to safely handle tree removal without property damage.
  • Insurance Protection: Reputable services carry insurance to protect your property.

Tree Removal Permits in Central Florida: What You Need to Know

Before removing trees in Central Florida, it’s important to understand local permit requirements, which vary by location:

Polk County Tree Removal Regulations

Polk County has specific regulations regarding tree removal on residential and commercial properties:

  • Permits are generally required for removing trees over a certain size (typically 4 inches in diameter at 4.5 feet above ground)
  • Protected tree species have additional restrictions
  • Exemptions may exist for dead or hazardous trees, but documentation is often required
  • Fines for unpermitted removal can be substantial

Hillsborough County Tree Removal Regulations

Hillsborough County has its own set of regulations:

  • Grand trees (those over 34 inches in diameter) have special protections
  • Permits are required for most tree removals
  • Hazardous tree exemptions exist but require proper documentation
  • Replacement trees may be required depending on the circumstances

“We recently helped a Lithia homeowner navigate the permit process to save them over $300,” shares our team member. “We walked them through applying for the permit themselves rather than having us handle it, which was a significant savings while ensuring they remained compliant with local regulations.”

At We Do It All Trees & Landscape, we’re familiar with the permitting requirements across all the areas we serve and can help you navigate this process correctly.

DIY Tree Assessment: What You Can Do Before Calling a Professional

While professional assessment is always recommended for potential tree hazards, there are steps homeowners can take to monitor their trees:

Regular Visual Inspections

Perform these simple checks regularly, especially after storms:

  • Walk around your trees looking for changes or damage
  • Check for leaning or soil upheaval after heavy rains
  • Look for dead branches or areas without leaves during growing season
  • Inspect the trunk for wounds, cavities, or fungal growth
  • Note any changes in the tree’s appearance or condition

Document Changes

If you notice potential issues:

  • Take dated photos to track changes over time
  • Make notes about when you first observed the issue
  • Monitor how quickly changes progress
  • Share this documentation with tree professionals when they assess your tree

Safe Distance Precautions

If you suspect a tree might be hazardous:

  • Keep children and pets away from the area
  • Don’t park vehicles beneath the tree
  • Avoid spending time under or near the tree during windy conditions
  • Consider temporarily roping off the area if there’s an immediate concern

What to Expect During Professional Tree Removal

When you hire a professional service like We Do It All Trees & Landscape for tree removal, here’s what you can expect:

Assessment and Planning

  • Professional evaluation of the tree and surrounding area
  • Discussion of removal options and potential challenges
  • Clear explanation of the process and timeline
  • Written estimate for the work

The Removal Process

  • Setup of safety perimeters
  • Strategic cutting to control the tree’s fall
  • Careful removal of branches and sections
  • Protection of surrounding landscape features
  • Complete cleanup of debris

After Removal Options

  • Stump grinding to remove the remaining stump
  • Wood chip repurposing for mulch or removal
  • Recommendations for replacement tree planting if desired
  • Site preparation for new landscaping

Preventative Measures: Keeping Your Trees Healthy

The best way to avoid tree removal is to maintain healthy trees:

Regular Professional Maintenance

  • Schedule periodic inspections by certified arborists
  • Maintain proper tree trimming schedules
  • Address minor issues before they become major problems
  • Follow professional recommendations for tree care

Proper Tree Selection and Planting

  • Choose tree species well-suited to Central Florida’s climate
  • Plant trees with adequate space for mature growth
  • Consider proximity to structures, utilities, and other trees
  • Follow proper planting techniques to encourage strong root development

Storm Preparation

  • Have trees inspected and pruned before hurricane season
  • Remove dead or weakened limbs that could become projectiles
  • Consider cables or bracing for valuable trees with structural issues
  • Know who to call for emergency tree services

Why Choose We Do It All Trees & Landscape for Your Tree Concerns

As a family-owned business serving Polk and Hillsborough Counties since 2013, we bring a unique combination of expertise, reliability, and personal service to every job:

  • Local Experience: Our team understands Central Florida’s unique tree challenges and regulations
  • Comprehensive Services: From assessment to removal to stump grinding and new tree planting
  • 24/7 Emergency Response: Available when storms or unexpected situations create hazards
  • Licensed and Insured: Professional service with proper protection for your property
  • Customer-Focused Approach: We treat your property as if it were our own
  • Satisfaction Guaranteed: Our job isn’t done until you’re completely satisfied

Our team, led by Robert Warren, has earned a reputation for fair pricing, quick response times, and exceptional cleanup after every job. As one recent customer from Lakeland shared: “They did such a great job cutting down some dead limbs, and the cleanup was great. Highly recommend!” – Becky Scott, May 2024

Take Action Before It’s Too Late

Don’t wait until a storm turns a hazardous tree into an emergency. If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs mentioned in this article, contact We Do It All Trees & Landscape for a professional assessment. Our experienced team serves Lakeland, Valrico, Lithia, and surrounding areas throughout Polk and Hillsborough Counties.

Call or text us today at (813) 588-0120 for a free estimate, or request an estimate online. Remember, when it comes to potentially hazardous trees, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

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Gabbie Nichols
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June 15, 2024

These guys were awesome. I highly recommend. They were quick, efficient and professional. I am so happy with end product. 10/10

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Anel Williams
June 7, 2024

I have used their service a few times, Rob is the best by far. Very reasonably priced and definitely gets the job done right the first time. When I call him for a quote he is here usually same day, if not the next day. He has his crew here within a day or two. If you're looking for quick service I highly recommend.

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Hanlin
May 31, 2024

Robert and his crew were phenomenal to work with. He is very quick to respond and can schedule you for the job much quicker than other companies. He walked us through applying for the permit ourselves to save $300+. He gave us the best price and still did a wonderful job.

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Becky Scott
May 14, 2024

They did such a great job cutting down some dead limbs, and the cleanup was great. Highly recommend!

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Cherie' Sublett
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February 22, 2024

There’s not anything bad to say about Rob & his crew, honest, fast, pays attention to detail & very knowledgeable, respectful & very affordable. Thanks guys for doing the job in 1 day & it wasn’t an easy task, very satisfied with the outcome. Definitely using them again in the near future.

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Kerri Gilberto
December 26, 2023

This wasn’t your typical tree job. It was climbing high up, but for a drone. Robert and his crew was so quick to respond and very professional and I’m extremely grateful for his crew member Joe for getting it out of the tree. He had to climb up so high and he knew exactly what he was doing. I highly recommend for any tree jobs. ! Extremely fair priced and nice people :)

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Scout Bouvier
December 21, 2023

Robert and the crew were great. They cleared out the excessive amount of overgrowth we had in the yard, as well as removed 3 trees. They got the job done super quickly, and kept us updated as they went. And they gave us a pretty good deal for the work done. We're very happy with the work and will definitely use them again in the future.

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Derrick Nielson
September 1, 2023
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Lisa Pergament
May 10, 2023

Robert and his crew did an awesome job and went out of their way to do extra things to make my trees and property look wonderful. They trimmed my trees, removed a tree, did stump grinding, pruned the vines off of my trees and fences. I really appreciate all their hard work and my trees look much healthier! I would highly recommend them!

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Kylea Jenness
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January 2, 2023

they are fast and reliable removed six trees for me all the way in Spring Hill will definitely recommend them to others and we'll use them again

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Greg Healy
December 2, 2022

I had a tree go down in a hurricane requiring stump grinding/removal. I also had some general brush clean-up and some tree pruning done. I called a few places but We Do It All was the most responsive. They visited my house same day…gave me an estimate (which I thought was very fair) same day, and they took care of all the work the following day. The guys who did the job were very respectful of the property. They did a great job, and cleaned up nicely before leaving. Overall, I’m very happy with the service they provided, and I would definitely reach out to them again if I need some help. Well done guys. Thank you.

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Sheryl D. Gentry
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October 22, 2022

we had a lot of small landscaping jobs and a couple of big ones. We Do It All did them all! Quick, professional service and a friendly crew. We're very pleased.

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Wendy Metzgar Bayer
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October 11, 2022

This is the 2nd time we have had Robert come out and every time he has done a fantastic job. Highly recommend! 5*s!!

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Barry Cobb
August 10, 2022

I hired them to build a foundation for a shed I am having built. Their price was fair. They had it done 3 days after I contacted them. Their work was very good. I will be using them in the future for other projects.

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De Andra Duhaylonsod Dew
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June 11, 2022

Another excellent job by Robert, Alta & their crew! This the 2nd time that we've used We Do It Tree’s and Landscaping and both times they have provided outstanding service. The first time we used the crew, they trimmed our oak tree branches over the driveway & backyard and trimmed our palm trees before a big storm during the hurricane season. Yesterday they removed our dead oak tree and the stump, dead palm tree, and trimmed our palms. Robert was easy to communicate with. He’s very helpful, kind, professional. His prices are extremely reasonable (he beat out every company’s estimate). The crew showed up on time, completed the job and cleaned up once they were done I highly recommend We Do It Tree’s and Landscaping!!!

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Sam Peryea
June 1, 2022

Great job guys! Got everything done that i needed at a fair price.

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Beverly Ann Witonski-Bland
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April 18, 2022

They get a 10 star rating from me. I had 13 myrtles and two bushes removed. They totally cleaned up when they were done. They do such a great job at grinding the stumps you can't even tell there was a tree there. And very polite and professional. This is a family business that treats you like you are their family. Would definitely recommend them to anyone needing landscaping of any kind done.

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Kristi McEwen Stilwell
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February 5, 2022

Great people very friendly

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December 4, 2021

This family is amazing. They were prompt, courteous, professional and kind. They get things done and if they can't do it they will help you find someone who can if the job is suited for one of their contacts. I highly, highly, highly recommend We Do It Tree's And Landscaping.

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Dianna Finan
October 13, 2021
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Jasmine Toro Bryant
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July 16, 2021

they were absolutely amazing. Owner was very professional and easy to talk to. They had great communication with my husband. They went above and beyond for us. We can't thank them enough for the great work, pricing, and professionalism. Thank yall so much... The Bryant Family Lithia......

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Daniel Bryant
July 9, 2021

Great company to use very respectful on time great communication and very Is affordable prices

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James Bayer
June 30, 2021

The tree team arrived on time and performed the job just as expected. I for sure will be calling them for future work. Price was good not outrageous like the other 2 quotes I got.

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Mary Durso
April 29, 2021

Removed some shrubs and mulched. They damaged my sprinkler and my yard flooded when it came on a few days later. I understand this can happen and had it repaired. But I asked if they would get me 2 or 3 bags of mulch to replace what had flooded away. They said “sure” but I never heard from them. After this review posted I heard from them immediately. I don’t have a problem with the work that was done and I understand the sprinkler was a risk I chose to take.. my point was that I asked for a little extra consideration to get a little more mulch because of what happened with the damaged sprinkler..He has generously offered to bring me mulch now but I have already had it taken care of.

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Gail barnes
April 15, 2021

This company is the most outstanding caring professional I have seen. I had them trim two big trees. They took the time to trim more then what I expected. They seen it needed badly so they took care of it for me for the amount $ given. You Will Not Go Wrong! So Call This Company for any type of work needed!!!

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April 11, 2021

Great service

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Jerm RWellz
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April 4, 2021

Fantastic work ethic and they did an amazing job removing a monster oak from my property. Robert offered the best price by far and did a great job! Highly recommend!

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Leilani
September 1, 2020

This company is great. They have excellent knowledge of plants. They transformed our front yard from an overgrown mess to a well groomed paradise quickly and for a great price. We had other landscapers in the past try to tackle the front yard, but it was more expensive and didn't look nearly as nice. They also removed a huge hickory tree in our back yard in one afternoon. I am very impressed with their work!

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Janet Noah
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August 26, 2020

So pleased we hired We Do It All to trim all our landscaping & re-mulch everything. Wow... we are so impressed! They had a team of 4 who did an outstanding job! We have a lot of landscaping that was completely overgrown & now everything looks refreshed & beautiful. Personable & friendly people to work with as well is a big plus!!

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Tony Noriega
August 9, 2020

Robert and his crew did a good and thorough job of removing my 50 foot palm tree. They showed up (5 guys) and got to work right away with one man climbing the palm with a chain saw on his belt. He cut the top of the tree just right so it avoided my prized sago palms and then the crew removed the remaining trunk, cut it up and loaded it in their trailer and they did a good job of cleaning up the debris. I do recommend them.

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CAMOKREW ALUMINUM
August 4, 2020

We had rob and his crew out for a tree trimming job and they did a fantastic job, he explained in very good detail about how the tree was going to be trimmed and perform the work exactly how he said, Will use again next season for tree trimming 5 star guys !!

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I had a really excellent experience with this company. They came the same day and got the job in no time at all. I highly recommend them to any one who to have the job done right at a great price.

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Romayne Warner
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May 15, 2020

We do it all is the best co. They very efficient and very friendly. The was done in no time at all. If you want a excellent job I highly recommend!

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Henry Winterheld
May 15, 2020

Very nice people to work with. The owners really know what they are talking about and they do very good work. Easy to deal with and they really listen to what you want and they delivered exactly what I asked for. Thank you very much. Highly recommend

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YaLanda Rushing-Royal
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May 9, 2020

Excellent work, excellent crew. Very professional and the name says it all, you will not be disappointed. I’m well pleased, thank you.

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Kelly Yates
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December 10, 2019

Amazing people to work with!

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Rickey Potts
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November 5, 2019

Very polite and well mannered

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Joe Brothers
November 5, 2019

They have the best climber I've ever seen very efficient and professional

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Rickey Potts
November 5, 2019

Best quotes, Very professional,Family owned and operated

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Lisa Cottrell
October 20, 2019
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Catherine Brown
September 30, 2019

They did an awesome job! I would highly recommend these guys for any yard service. Very professional and very clean. They kept my flowers alive, picked up after themselves, and made my front yard look AMAZING! Plus, you can’t beat their prices!

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Jessie The Panda Vlogs
August 28, 2019

I would recommend this company because they are very professional with their work. They didn’t leave a mess like the other guys when doing landscaping. They respond very fast, and was very happy with their work. :)

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Alta King
August 28, 2019
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Danielle Brooks
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June 21, 2019

They came out and fixed my auntie's sprinklers after another sod company ran them over. Y'all are live savers, thank you so much!

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mr. tomahawk
May 8, 2019

We do it all Did amazing job on my lawn They made sure none of my plants were harmed and my flowers they help me remove a humongous tree without damaging my grass or my plants they trimmed my bushes for a cheap price and blew off my driveway and my sidewalk for free they showed up in time and got the job done before the deadline they made sure none of my plants were harmed they help me remove a humongous tree without damaging my grass or my plants they trimmed my bushes for a cheap price and blew off my driveway and my sidewalk for free they showed up in time And finish the job a day before it was supposed to be done very amazing people amazing team ethics with the workers Where amazing definitely recommend to others

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Tyra McCarthy
May 8, 2019
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Kelly Yates
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January 16, 2019

Amazing people and great customer service !!

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Jenn Mulkey
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October 27, 2018

They are on point and did more then i expected for the price i paid to have them landscape my yard. Next year is Trees! Thanks guys for such a great job on my yard.