hazard waivers?

[treeman82]

Do any of you guys have forms that you use for identifying hazards to customers? For instance, let's say that you are called to a house to look at pruning a big oak out back, you get the job, and in the process of the job being completed you see a V crotch with included bark right next to the house on a 3' diameter oak. You tell the customer, but they don't want to do anything about it... just they don't care, don't have the money... whatever. Do you guys have some form which you use to verify that you did show the client the hazard and they chose not to mitigate it? I would appreciate any help with creating one, or with maybe getting a basic copy?

Thanx fellas-

 

[Menchhofer]

This has happened to me several times and I am quite sure it will continue.

Upon advising the client of a hazard I always note it on the final work sheet/invoice explaining the hazard and whatever action if any, was taken...somewhere along the lines of "client was advised of included bark of ash and opted to do nothing at this time."

I try to put EVERYTHING in writing just in case...

 

[mikecross23]

Sounds like a good idea, but I'm not established enough yet to worry about that. What would the benefits be for you? Would it be to protect you so if in the future the hazard that you saw failed, you would have proof that you addressed the issue?

-Mike-

 

[treeman82]

Mike, that's pretty much it. Don't forget you need a target to have a hazard. So if the tree goes down on the house... I'm sure the homeowner's insurance company is going to come looking for you. Or if a big dead limb falls on a car with somebody inside... SOMEBODY is going to get sued. Also, you might look at it as a selling tool.

 

[mikecross23]

I'll keep my peepers open and maybe add the obviouse to my invoice sheets for now. Thanks for the eye-deers Matt, sorry I don't have anything to offer.

-Mike-

 

[Stephen Wiley]

Form? Yes

Treeman 82,

I mainly consult (arboriculture,forestry), but in addition due graphic design in assisting other businesses in developing their appearances and function.

I operated three different tree businesses the past 20 + years.

The form you wish to know of is called "Service Report". This form is left with the customer upon completion of the job. I have designed several of these. They project a caring public relationship, which results in a satisfied customer. Worth the expense for repeat of work.

NOTE: Your concern of responsibility to inform your client of "Known potential risks" is really a gratuity service be it "orally" or in "writing". A simple notation on your invoice will suffice.

The old adage of being sued for not disclosing this information is oftentimes dismissed in court (provided it makes it beyond council)as you were not contracted to perform a health/structural examination of the tree.

Most the time you are fulfilling a tree maintenance contract. The client may ask you for your opinion, but it is not binding unless they hire you as a consultant to provide an assessment and /or perform an examination.

If you still want help with a "Service Report" email me.