Addison warns residents about possible tree service scams

Addison officials are warning residents about reports of tree service vendors taking advantage of villagers after the July 1 storm.

“We had a couple of fly-by-night tree services and we felt, in my opinion, that they charged an exorbitant amount of money to do very little work,” Public Works Director Mitch Patterson said. “For example, we had one woman who hired a company that told her she was getting a senior citizen discount, then charged her $1,000 for work valued at $450.”

Patterson said the company also left tree branches in the parkway for public works crews to pick up, which is against village ordinances. Then the company tried to charge her an extra $250 to remove the tree debris.

“That just bothers me when people take advantage of people in need,” said Patterson, who has worked for Addison for more than 40 years.

Addison police sent out an email blast early this week to warn residents to be careful in screening tree contractors. Village officials encourage residents to do their research before contracting with a tree service, especially providers soliciting door-to-door. All door-to-door solicitors must obtain a permit from Addison, so ask to see the company’s permit.

Residents should also compare prices with other contractors before signing an agreement, and the service should include the removal of all branches and limbs.

Patterson said workers will not remove trees that have been taken down by tree services on private property, even if they are placed on the parkway.