TERMS OF SERVICE

1. Acceptance of Terms

These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern the agreement between Huntsville Stump Removal & Tree Service ("Company," "we," "us," or "our") and the customer ("Client," "you," or "your") for tree trimming, tree removal, stump grinding, land clearing, and emergency storm response services (collectively, "Services").

By requesting a quote, approving an estimate, signing a contract, or allowing our crews to begin work on your property, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to be bound by these Terms.

2. Estimates & Work Orders

All estimates provided by the Company—whether digital, over the phone, via photo upload, or in person—are valid for 30 calendar days from issuance unless otherwise noted in writing.

• Scope of Work: Services will be performed strictly according to the written scope detailed in your accepted estimate or proposal. Any additional work requested on-site will be billed as an extra charge.
• Photo-Based Quotes: Estimates issued based on photos uploaded or texted by the Client are preliminary and subject to final verification upon our crew's physical arrival at the job site.

3. Property Access & Ownership

The Client warrants that they are the legal owner of the property where services are performed, or have full legal authority from the owner to contract for tree work on the specified property.

• Access Rights: You authorize the Company, its workforce, heavy machinery, cranes, trucks, and equipment to access the work area.
• Clearance of Gates & Obstacles: The Client is responsible for unlocking gates, clearing vehicles, lawn furniture, toys, and pet waste prior to the crew's scheduled arrival.
• Boundary Lines: The Client is solely responsible for correctly identifying property boundaries and tree ownership. The Company assumes no liability for disputes arising from work performed on trees claimed by neighbors.

4. Underground Utilities & Private Infrastructure (Alabama 811)

For stump grinding, heavy excavation, or deep rigging, public utility line locates will be requested through Alabama 811 prior to subterranean work.

Unmarked Private Lines Notice

Alabama 811 does not mark privately installed underground infrastructure. The Client must inform the Company in writing of any private underground lines, including:

• Lawn irrigation systems and sprinkler pipes
• Private septic lines, tanks, and drain fields
• Outdoor electrical lines for pool, patio, or landscape lighting
• Invisible dog fences or gas grill lines

The Company is not responsible for damage to private underground lines or utilities that were not properly disclosed, staked, or marked prior to starting work.

5. Lawn & Property Condition Disclaimers

Tree care and removal involve heavy industrial machinery, bucket trucks, chippers, and cranes. While our crew exercises extreme care to protect your property (including using equipment mats when necessary):

• Lawn Turf & Soil Compression: Minor turf rutting, soil compaction, or yard disturbance may occur, especially during wet weather conditions.
• Driveways & Walkways: The Company is not liable for minor cracks or settling in driveways, flagstones, or sidewalks caused by necessary heavy machinery access.
• Stump Grinding Debris: Unless explicitly specified as a paid addon, stump grinding produces a mound of wood mulch and dirt mixed in place. Backfilling with topsoil or sod installation requires a separate contract.

6. Payment Terms & Late Fees

Payment is due immediately upon completion of the contracted work unless alternative written payment arrangements have been authorized in advance.

• Accepted Methods: Cash, check, and major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover).
• Late Payments: Balances unpaid after 10 days will accrue a late charge of 1.5% per month (18% per annum) or the maximum legal rate allowable by Alabama law.
• Emergency Storm Response: For insurance-billed emergency tree removals, the Client agrees to authorize direct insurance payout or remain responsible for unpaid balance totals.

7. Cancellations & Rescheduling

We understand plans change. We request at least 24 hours' notice for routine job cancellations or date changes.

• Same-Day Cancellation: Cancellations made after a crew has been dispatched or arrived on site may incur a $150 minimum service call fee.
• Weather Delays: For crew safety and property protection, the Company reserves the right to postpone services due to severe weather, high winds, lightning, or flooded conditions.

8. Safety, Insurance & Compliance

The Company maintains $2,000,000 in General Liability insurance and strictly adheres to ANSI A300 Pruning Standards and OSHA Safety Regulations.

For safety reasons, non-employees, pets, and children must remain at a safe distance (minimum 50 feet) outside the drop zone and active work area while chainsaws, chippers, and cranes are in operation.

9. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, the Company's liability for any losses, claims, or damages arising out of the performance or non-performance of Services shall be limited to the total dollar amount paid by the Client for the specific job giving rise to the claim.

10. Governing Law

These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Alabama, without regard to its conflict of law provisions. Any legal action arising from these Terms shall be filed in Madison County, Alabama.

11. Contact Information

If you have questions regarding these Terms of Service or wish to request service under these terms, please contact us at: