TERMS AND CONDITIONS
1. Definitions
“Company” means Hellbird Tree Works.
“Client” means the person or organisation accepting the quotation.
“Works” means the tree surgery, arboricultural or related services described in the quotation.
“Site” means the location where the Works are to be carried out.
2. Quotation & Acceptance
2.1 All quotations are valid for 30 days unless otherwise stated.
2.2 Acceptance of the quotation, whether in writing, electronically, or by instructing the Company to commence Works, constitutes acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.
2.3 Any variation to the quoted Works may result in additional charges.
3. Scope of Works
3.1 The Works will be carried out in accordance with the written quotation only.
3.2 Unless otherwise stated, removal of arisings (logs, woodchip, debris) is included. Stump grinding is not included unless specified.
3.3 The Company will carry out Works in accordance with relevant British Standards (including BS3998 where applicable).
4. Planning Permission & Tree Preservation Orders (TPO)
4.1 The Client is responsible for informing the Company of any Tree Preservation Orders (TPO), Conservation Area restrictions, or planning constraints affecting the Site.
4.2 Where required, the Client is responsible for obtaining all necessary permissions unless expressly agreed in writing that the Company will do so.
4.3 The Company shall not be liable for unauthorised works where the Client has failed to disclose relevant restrictions.
5. Access to Site
5.1 The Client must provide safe and adequate access to the Site for personnel, vehicles, and equipment.
5.2 The Client must ensure the working area is clear of hazards including pets, vehicles, garden furniture, and underground services (e.g., water, gas, electricity).
5.3 Additional charges may apply if access is restricted or conditions differ materially from those described at quotation stage.
6. Health & Safety
6.1 The Company reserves the right to delay or suspend Works if site conditions are deemed unsafe.
6.2 The Company will carry out risk assessments and operate in accordance with current Health & Safety legislation.
6.3 The Client must not enter the designated work zone during operations.
7. Payment Terms
7.1 Unless otherwise agreed in writing, payment is due in full upon completion of the Works.
7.2 For larger projects, staged payments or deposits may be required as detailed in the quotation.
7.3 The Company reserves the right to charge interest on overdue payments pursuant to the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998.
7.4 The Client shall not withhold payment due to minor or rectifiable issues.
8. Variations & Additional Work
8.1 Any additional work requested by the Client not included in the original quotation will be subject to additional charges.
8.2 If unforeseen circumstances arise (e.g., hidden decay, nesting wildlife, underground obstructions), the Company will inform the Client and agree any revised costs before proceeding where practicable.
9. Wildlife & Environmental Considerations
9.1 The Company complies with relevant wildlife legislation.
9.2 If nesting birds or protected species are discovered, Works may be postponed or modified.
9.3 Any delays caused by compliance with environmental law shall not constitute breach of contract.
10. Damage & Liability
10.1 The Company holds Public Liability Insurance (details available upon request).
10.2 While all reasonable care will be taken, the Company shall not be liable for:
Damage to underground services not previously disclosed.
Minor damage to lawns, flowerbeds, or surfaces where access is necessary and reasonable.
Pre-existing defects in trees (including hidden decay or structural weakness).
10.3 Liability for any proven damage caused by negligence shall be limited to the value of the contract.
11. Cancellations
11.1 The Client may cancel the Works by providing written notice.
11.2 If cancellation occurs within 48 hours of the scheduled start date, the Company reserves the right to charge reasonable costs for lost time and materials purchased.
11.3 The Company reserves the right to cancel or reschedule due to adverse weather or circumstances beyond its control.
12. Waste & Timber
12.1 Timber, logs, and woodchip remain the property of the Client unless otherwise agreed.
12.2 If the Client requests timber to be left on site, it will be left in a reasonable condition but not processed unless specified.
13. Complaints
13.1 Any concerns must be raised within 7 days of completion of the Works.
13.2 The Company will be given reasonable opportunity to inspect and, where appropriate, rectify any issues.
14. Governing Law
These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales.