WHAT ARE MY TREES WORTH?

    Almost everyone knows that trees and other living plants are valuable. They
    beautify our surroundings, purify our air, act as sound barriers, manufacture
    precious oxygen, and help us save energy through their cooling shade in
    summer and their wind reduction in winter.
    Many people don’t realize, however, that plants have a dollar value of their
    own that can be measured by competent plant appraisers.
    If your trees or shrubs are damaged or destroyed, you may be able to
    recapture your loss through an insurance claim or even as a deduction from
    your income tax.
    Some Practical Advice

    Here is some practical advice that may help you find out what your trees
    and plants are worth (a process known as valuation).
    Planning for Highest Value
    Tree Works can help you plan, develop, install, and care for all of your
    trees and plants so that each of them will be worth more to you.
    How Your Trees and Shrubs Are Valuated:
    Tree Works has developed a set of guidelines for the valuation. Such
    guidelines have been widely adopted in the field and are recognized by
    insurance companies, the courts, and, in some cases, the Canada
    Revenue Agency (CRA).
    What to Do If You Suffer Loss or Damage to Your Landscape Plants
    A casualty loss is defined roughly as “… a loss resulting from an
    identifiable event of sudden, unexpected, or unusual nature.” This definition
    can include such events as vehicular accidents, storms, floods, lightning,
    vandalism, or even air and soil pollution.
    If you suffer damage to trees or landscaping from any type of casualty, first
    consult your home owner’s insurance policy to determine the amount and
    kind of coverage. Contact the insurance company to have an appraisal
    made by Tree Works. We are experienced in plant appraisal. Have the
    appraisal made right after your loss or damage.
    Tree Works can accomplish many things for you. We can see things you
    might miss, help correct damage, and prescribe remedies you may be able
    to do yourself. We can establish the amount of your loss in financial terms,
    including the cost of removing debris and making repairs as well as
    replacements. All of these steps are wise investments and well worth the
    cost you may incur for the inspection.
    Four Factors in Professional Valuation of Trees and Other Plants

    Size. Sometimes the size and age of a tree are such that it cannot be
    replaced. Trees that are too large to be replaced can be assessed by us
    with a specialized appraisal formula.
    Species or classification. Trees that are hardy, durable, highly adaptable,
    and free from objectionable characteristics are most valuable. They require
    less maintenance; they have sturdy, well-shaped branches, and pleasing
    foliage. Tree values vary according to the region, the “hardiness” zone,
    including provincial and local conditions. If you are not familiar with these
    variables, be sure to contact us for advice.
    Condition. Tree Works will also consider the condition of the plant.
    Obviously, a healthy, well-maintained plant has a higher value. Roots,
    trunk, branches, and buds need to be inspected
    Location. Functional considerations are important. A tree in your yard
    may be worth more than one growing in the woods. A tree standing alone
    often has a higher value than one in a group. A tree near your house or one
    that is a focal point in your landscape tends to have more value. The site,
    placement, and contribution of a tree to the overall landscape help
    determine the overall value of the plant attributable to location.
    All of these factors can be measured in dollars and cents. They can
    determine the value of a tree, specimen shrubs, or evergreens, whether for
    insurance purposes, court testimony in lawsuits, or possibly even tax
    deductions.
    Checklist

    These steps should be taken before and after any casualty loss to your
    trees and landscape. Taking them can improve the value of your investment
    in nature’s green, growing gifts and prevent financial loss should they be
    damaged or destroyed.
    • Plan your landscaping for both beauty and functional value.
    • Protect and preserve to maintain value.
    • Take pictures of trees and other landscape plants now while they are
    healthy and vigorous. Pictures make “before and after” comparisons easier
    and expedite the processing of insurance claims or deductions for losses
    on tax forms.
    • Check your insurance. In most cases, the amount of an allowable claim
    for any one tree or shrub is a maximum of $500.
    • For insurance, legal, and tax purposes, keep accurate records of your
    landscape and real estate appraisals on any losses.
    • Consult us at every stage in the life cycle of your landscape (planning,
    planting, care) to make sure you do not suffer needless financial loss when
    a casualty strikes.