Tree surgeon (owner-operator)

Homeowners, landlords, real estate agents, strata managers and small businesses, plus storm-damage callouts.

Fixed quote per job after a site visit, with extra for stump grinding, wood removal and urgent after-storm work.

• Chainsaw and climbing or elevated work platform skills
• Safe work at height
• Quoting and customer service
• Physical fitness

• Public liability and equipment insurance, check what cover is needed for work near powerlines and at height
• Work near power lines is restricted, check your state rules and network provider requirements
• Council permits may be needed to remove or prune protected or significant trees, check with the local council
• Workers compensation insurance once you hire staff
• Serious injury risk: training, PPE and safe work method statements matter

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your vehicle, chipper and equipment. Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on how many jobs you take, your crew size and the type of work.

Check what public liability and equipment cover you need, especially for work near powerlines and at height. Check your state rules and network provider requirements for powerline work. Check council permits for protected trees, and workers compensation insurance once you hire staff.

Expect typically at least around 30 hours a week. You need chainsaw and climbing or elevated work platform skills, safe work at height, quoting and good fitness. Injury risk is serious, so training, PPE and safe work method statements matter.