Why condo boards should write one tree spec

Condo boards and property managers are often asked to approve tree work they can’t easily judge. The usual tender process makes that harder than it needs to be.

Three quotes, three jobs

A board asks for tree work and calls three companies. Each one visits and quotes what it thinks is needed. One says remove, one says prune, one splits the difference. Because nobody priced the same work, the numbers can’t be compared, and the board ends up choosing between scopes it can’t judge.

What a tree spec is

A tree spec is a short written document that says exactly what work is wanted, before anyone quotes. It usually covers:

• The trees: which ones, identified on a site plan or by tag.
• The work for each tree: the type of pruning, removal, stump grinding or monitoring.
• The standards: current industry pruning and safety standards.
• The site rules: working hours, access, parking, notices to residents and clean-up.
• What contractors must provide: such as proof of insurance and the qualifications of the people doing the work.

Why it helps the board

• Like-for-like bids. Every contractor prices the same trees and the same work, so the numbers mean something.
• The right work. What each tree needs is decided by an arborist, not by the company hoping to do the job.
• Decisions you can defend. The board has a written record of why each tree was pruned, removed or left alone.
• Priorities. Risk-rated work means the trees most likely to cause harm are dealt with first.

One spec. Every quote prices the same job.

Who writes it

The spec works best when it’s written by an independent consulting arborist, separate from the contractors bidding. Koala Tree can act as your consulting arborist on retainer: Jason assesses the trees across the properties you manage, writes the spec, and you tender it to the contractors you choose.

Beyond one job: an inventory and a multi-year plan

For a property with many trees, a tree inventory and multi-year plan goes further. Every tree is recorded and rated for condition and risk, then the work is set out year by year so the board can approve it and budget for it. Each year’s spec comes straight from the plan.

Getting started

It helps to have a site plan, any past tree reports or quotes, and a list of the concerns residents have raised. A walk-through of the property is the usual first step. You can read more about how we work with condos and property managers.

This is general information. Every tree and site is different. For advice on a specific tree, get a free quote or book a Certified Arborist Assessment.

About the author

Jason Korkidakis

Jason is Koala Tree’s Owner and Lead Arborist in London, ON. He leads an 8-person crew and assesses trees for homeowners, condo boards and property managers.

ISA Certified Arborist ON-3263ATRAQ qualifiedPPQ qualified

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