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How much does a tree surgeon cost?
Quick answer: Published UK guides put a tree surgeon at roughly £150 to £400 a day for one person and £300 to £700 for a team with a chipper. Felling is often quoted at about £350 to £730 for an average tree, crown reduction at £200 to £900 and stump grinding at £100 to £400.
Tree work is priced by the job, not the hour, because size, access and risk vary so much. Use these ranges to judge whether a quote is sensible.
| Job | Rough price |
|---|---|
| Day rate, one surgeon | About £150 to £400 |
| Day rate, team with chipper | About £300 to £700; more in London and the South East |
| Tree felling (average tree) | About £350 to £730; small trees from about £150, large trees £1,000 to £2,500 or more |
| Crown reduction | About £200 to £900 per tree |
| Stump grinding | About £100 to £400, by stump size |
Summary of published UK guides including Checkatrade, MyBuilder and Bestbuilders, November 2026. The sources do not agree closely.
What pushes the price up
- Tree size and condition: tall, dead or leaning trees need more time and safety measures.
- Access: if a crane or climbing is needed, or the tree is over a building, road or power lines.
- Waste: chipping and removing wood is often itemised.
- Stump grinding: usually a separate charge from felling, so ask for it to be itemised.
- Emergency call-outs, which can cost much more.
Before you hire
Check whether a Tree Preservation Order or conservation area applies first. See do I need permission to cut down a tree? and how to choose a tree surgeon.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to have a tree removed?
Published UK guides put an average tree at roughly £350 to £730, with small trees from about £150 and large trees £1,000 to £2,500 or more. Stump grinding is usually extra.
Is stump grinding included in the price?
Usually not. Ask for it to be itemised so you can compare quotes.
Why is tree work so expensive?
It is skilled, risky work that needs equipment, insurance and often a team, plus waste removal. Access and tree size move the price most.
Need help?
Use the form to send a free enquiry. We'll pass it to an independent local tree surgeon provider.