HOA’s (Home Owner’s Association)
One of the most controversial issues that face a homeowner association is tree removal. While there are many practical reasons to remove trees, some residents take a deeply personal interest in their fate. It is the Practical versus the Emotional. Let’s explore the dynamics of this phenomena.
In a new homeowner association development, the developer often selects trees for visual appeal, rapid growth and ease of maintenance. The trees are young and occupy a relatively small area. Over time, these trees do what trees do, get bigger and denser. With size comes maintenance problems like:
- Tree debris that clogs the gutters
- Branches that damage roof and siding
- Branches that obscure security lighting or vision, a safety issue
- Overcrowding that promotes plant and tree diseases
- Roots in the sewer lines that causes backups and flooding
- Shading that promotes moss and algae growth
- Tree roots that lift sidewalks or crack asphalt
- Trees that block views
So, you have a resident that complains of debris in the gutters and lobbies for removal is often countered by another that loves looking at the lush foliage. And let’s face it, trees don’t happen overnight. There are those that feel that killing such an enduring life form is morally wrong and that people should adapt to the changing tree environment.
This is where the professional consulting arborists at Buena Vista Arbor Care Co. comes in. We are Switzerland and only speak for each tree. From there, we can give our advice on how to prioritize tree work to fit a budget. It is important to get our recommendations in writing. It costs a bit more but having the information documented is priceless. Also, if you are taking this information to the Board, you have proof you’ve hired an ISA certified arborist to inspect and make written recommendations about the trees in question. This step is invaluable since the Board now has “expert” input into the process that often offers alternatives to removal.