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Home > Blogs > Test > Archives > 2008 > September > 15 > Entry
Police warn of profiteers, scammers
By Khalid Moss
Staff Writer
There are a number of reputable tree trimmers and tree removal specialists operating in the Miami Valley. But Dayton Police Detective David Hirst warns homeowners to be wary of unlicensed profiteers bearing chain saws.
“If you let ‘Joe Scammer’ start working on your property with a chain saw and they injure themselves, injure someone else or do further property damage, the homeowner is liable for that,” Hirst said. “When trees blow down in residential areas, it’s wise for homeowners to contract a licensed and insured business.”
Jerry Blevins, owner of Ace Tree and Landscaping said a legitimate tree removal company will never ask for money in advance.
“A licensed company will never collect before the job is done,” Blevins said. “Some of these jobs drag out forever until the last stump is ground and the last brush is picked up. We never ask for money until the job is done and anybody worth their salt wouldn’t either.”
Erin Tonne, certified arborist at Dayton Tree Specialists, said it’s important to check credentials.
“In times like this there are going to be a lot of people out there cutting up trees,” said Tonne from her service truck. “The legitimate tree companies are so backed up there are going to be other guys out there who are not licensed.
“The first thing consumers should do is to ask them if they have insurance. Also inquire about the history of their company and be on the alert for price-gougers,” Tonne said.
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