Robert W Walton Jr., consulting arborist
since 1978

"When experience is important!"

 
 

HOME

QUALIFICATIONS

RATES

AIR-SPADE

EVALUATION

TREE APPRAISAL

EXPERT WITNESS
 
 
TREE APPRAI$AL
Tree appraisal is the method of putting
a dollar value on a damaged or destroyed tree.


Appraisals can be for:

  • Insurance companies due to loss from storm damage, fire, accidents.

  • Lawsuits resulting from accidents or intentional & unintentional removal or unauthorized cutting by neighbors.

  • Tax deductions.

  • Mitigation.

  • Compensation.

  • Estate evaluations.


Methods for appraisals:

  • Replacement cost method. This is the cost to remove and replace a tree (s) with an equivalent size specimen..
  • Cost of cure. This method is for trees that can be saved. It figures the cost (present & future) to restore a tree to its pre-existing condition as possible.
  • Trunk formula method. This is the standard in the United States for putting a dollar value on a tree that is a total loss and too large for reasonable replacement.
  • Cost of repair. This method is to return a property to its pre-existing condition, which includes trees, shrubs, hardscape, etc.

 


The Guide for Plant Appraisal 9th edition is the
guide that is recognized as the standard in the
United States for tree appraisals. In California,
this is combined with the Species Classification & Group Assignment book for species rating
(developed and updated by the Western Chapter International Society of Arboriculture) to come
up with dollar values on trees when using the
trunk formula method.

Values come from an analysis of:

  • Species
  • Condition
  • Location (site, contribution & placement)
  • Size
  • Species rating

When plugged into a formula, a dollar value is derived.

If you have any further questions or would like to schedule an appraisal, call 619-443-1770 today!