The Hidden Dangers of Hiring Uninsured Tree Cutters in Louisville

When it comes to tree removal or trimming, a lot of homeowners want the cheapest deal. That’s understandable—but it can also be dangerous. In Louisville, there are dozens of so-called “tree guys” offering fast and cheap services. Problem is, most of them aren’t insured, aren’t trained, and aren’t qualified to be anywhere near your property with a chainsaw.

At Shults Tree Service, we’ve seen the aftermath firsthand—broken fences, smashed roofs, injured workers, and homeowners left holding the bill. So before you let someone start cutting in your yard, here’s what you need to know.

1. If They Get Hurt, You Could Get Sued

Tree work is one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. If an uninsured climber falls out of your tree, your homeowners insurance could be on the hook. You could get sued for medical bills, lost wages, or permanent disability.

Ask yourself: do you want your house, your car, or your savings on the line because you hired a guy with a Craigslist ad and a rusty chainsaw?

2. No Coverage Means No Accountability

When a tree crashes through your roof or a limb falls on your neighbor’s car, the last thing you want to hear is “Sorry, not my problem. "Uninsured tree cutters have no liability insurance, so you're left eating the cost if something goes wrong.

At Shults Tree Service, we carry full liability insurance and workers' comp, so our customers don’t have to worry. We do the job right—or we make it right. Period.

3. Most of Them Aren’t Arborists… or Even Skilled Climbers

Just because someone owns a pickup and a chainsaw doesn’t mean they know what they’re doing. Untrained workers might spike a healthy tree you wanted to keep, make dangerous cuts, or drop heavy wood where it shouldn’t go.

We’re not weekend warriors. Shults Tree Service is ISA Certified and our crew includes skilled climbers, not amateurs. We use advanced rigging techniques, climbing systems, and safety protocols to protect both your property and your trees.

4. Louisville Law Is Catching Up—But It’s Still on You

Some cities are starting to crack down on unlicensed or uninsured contractors, but enforcement is slow. If your contractor doesn’t have proper coverage and damages power lines, city property, or utilities, you could still be liable.

The burden falls on the homeowner to hire someone legitimate.

5. How to Tell If a Tree Company Is Legit

Before you hire anybody, ask for:

• Proof of liability insurance (and call the provider to verify it)

• Proof of workers' comp insurance

• ISA Certification or proof of training

• A written estimate and contract If they give you a sob story or say “trust me,” run.

Don’t Gamble with Your Home. Call a Local Pro You Can Trust.

At Shults Tree Service, we’re local, insured, certified, and trained to do the job the right way—the first time. Whether it’s a dead tree hanging over your house or a cleanup after a storm, we’ll give you peace of mind, not a legal headache.

📍 Serving Louisville and the surrounding areas📞 Call or text us for a free estimate: 502-552-2350 🌐 www.shultstreeservice.com