Business Details
28 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Expert Tree Surgery Services in South London, Surrey & West Sussex
Dave Ford Tree Care is one of the leading arborist companies in the South East, established in 1998. Our Surrey-based teams of fully trained, insured arborists deliver tree surgery services across South London, Surrey, and West Sussex, prioritising environmental stewardship and client-specific solutions. As Arboricultural Association Approved Contractors, we adhere to industry standard BS3998, maintaining rigorous health and safety protocols and continuous professional development.Our investment in specialist equipment ensures safe, efficient operations, from tree inspections to emergency works, while our apprenticeship programme nurtures future arboriculture talent. We serve domestic and commercial clients, including schools and local authorities, offering free assessments, TPO applications, and sustainable wood recycling.
Services
Tree Felling
Crown Reduction
Stump Removal
Hedgerow Management
Ash Dieback Treatment
Pollarding
Deadwood Removal
Tree Planting
Crown Thinning
Emergency Services
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We are Arboricultural Association Approved Contractors with annual reassessments.
- Our 24-hour emergency call-out service ensures rapid response to urgent tree issues.
- Free comprehensive tree inspections and risk assessments by qualified arborists.
- We recycle 100% of wood waste into biomass fuel and habitat piles.
- Investing in apprenticeships since 2006 to develop next-generation arboriculture experts.
Associations and certifications
- Arboricultural Association Approved Contractors
- Alcumus Safecontractor
- CHAS Accredited
- Constructionline Certified
- Trustmark approved
Services
Tree Felling
Professional tree felling requires precision to avoid property damage. Our arborists dismantle large trees piece-by-piece using ropes, cranes, and specialist equipment. We conduct thorough risk assessments and provide free consultations to ensure safe execution. This service suits domestic gardens and commercial properties requiring complete tree removal.
Crown Reduction
Crown reduction pruning manages overgrown trees by carefully removing branches to reduce size while maintaining structural integrity. Our arborists assess species-specific needs to minimise stress and decay. Ideal for trees encroaching on buildings or power lines, this service improves safety and prolongs tree lifespan through sympathetic pruning techniques.
Stump Removal
We offer complete stump removal using specialist grinders, leaving no regrowth risk. Alternative treatments like Eco-Plugs prevent sprouting while preserving stumps for wildlife habitats. Our compact equipment accesses tight spaces through side gates or buildings. This service addresses safety hazards and aesthetic concerns from leftover stumps after tree felling.
Ash Dieback Treatment
Our experts identify and manage Ash Dieback through early detection surveys and containment strategies. We assess canopy dieback symptoms, recommend removal of severely infected trees, and advise on replanting alternatives. This service protects surrounding ecosystems while complying with biosecurity protocols to prevent fungal spore spread across Surrey and West Sussex.
Hedgerow Management
We provide cyclical hedgerow management to maintain ecological value and aesthetic appeal. Services include reduction, copping, and replanting tailored to species-specific requirements. Our arborists advise on optimal pruning seasons to protect nesting wildlife. Ideal for rural properties and conservation areas seeking sustainable hedge management programmes that balance biodiversity with property needs.
People
Dave Ford
Founder & Managing Director
Established Dave Ford Tree Care in 1998 after gaining arboriculture qualifications at Merrist Wood College. With 25+ years of industry experience across three continents, he leads operations and strategic growth while maintaining hands-on involvement in complex tree projects.
Sam Dixon
Estimator
Joined in 2006 as estimator, specialising in accurate cost assessments and project planning. Trained in advanced tree surveying techniques, he ensures precise quotations while maintaining client communication throughout project lifecycles.
James Bradford
Arborist Manager
Appointed in 2021, James oversees daily operations and team coordination. With 15+ years of practical tree surgery experience, he manages complex commercial contracts and mentors apprentices in modern arboricultural practices.
Matt Buckland
Operations Manager
Joined in 2024 to streamline logistics and equipment management. Specialising in resource optimisation, he ensures timely delivery of projects while maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations across all worksites.
Questions
What tree services do you offer?
We provide tree felling, pruning, crown reduction, stump removal, hedgerow management, disease treatment (including Ash Dieback), and emergency tree services across Surrey, West Sussex, and South London.
Are your arborists qualified?
All our tree surgeons are fully trained, insured, and work to BS3998 standards. We are Arboricultural Association Approved Contractors with annual reassessments.
Do you handle council permissions?
Yes, we manage Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and Conservation Area applications with local authorities on your behalf.
Can you help with emergency tree work?
We offer 24-hour emergency call-out services for urgent tree safety issues like storm damage or hazardous branches.
Do you recycle tree waste?
We recycle 100% of wood waste into biomass fuel or habitat piles, ensuring no part of a tree is wasted.
How do I get a free quote?
Contact us via phone or our website form to schedule a free site visit and risk assessment with a qualified arborist.
