Dispute & Appraisal Reports
Tree appraisals and expert reports for neighbor disputes, HOA matters, insurance claims and litigation.
Who this is for
- Neighbor cut or damaged your tree
- Boundary and overhanging-branch disputes
- HOA enforcement or liability questions
- Attorneys and insurers needing an independent expert
What you get
Appraisal using the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers method (trunk formula or cost of cure), condition and causation findings, photographs, and a report written for the audience: a demand letter, a claim file or the court. Expert witness work billed hourly.
Turnaround and price
7 to 10 business days after the site visit.
$850 to $2,500 for appraisal and expert reports depending on tree count and audience; expert witness and court time $250 per hour. The price is confirmed before the visit; there is no charge for a phone call to decide whether you need this at all.
How this fits the city's rules
California Civil Code 3346 and Code of Civil Procedure 733 set double damages for most wrongful tree injury and allow treble damages only for wilful and malicious trespass. The appraisal is the number those multiples apply to, which is why it has to be defensible.
Request dispute & appraisal reports
Questions
Can you tell me what my tree is worth?
Yes, using the CTLA method cities and courts recognize. The number depends on species, size, condition and location, so it requires a site visit.
Do you testify?
Yes, as an expert witness, billed hourly, with a written report first.