The front tree's roots have gotten under the sidewalk at the in-laws house for years. Last week they finally started to worry if someone might trip, so I had called several places for estimates. Luckily the tree's trunk is less than 19 inches in diameter, so no need to file for a permit with City of Austin (its located within the Austin city limited, but also part of Williamson County.. so yay more taxes!)
1. Two dudes quoted $1k. Chop it, stump grind, remove all roots. They were recommend by a friend. Not a company though.
2. Someone who has been working my neighbors lawn for years. $800 for chopping it, but no stump grind. He will drill holes and put in glyphosate or something and come back to remove the stump and root in a month.
3. A small crew that has good reviews on Nextdoor and FB. $900 for chopping, stump grinding and root removal.
4. Also a small crews with good reviews on Nextdoor and FB. $900 for chopping, stump grinding, root removal, and also trimming a section of the second tree in the front yard for free.
Since the original tree was way too close to the sidewalk, once the old tree is removed, we will need to dig another hole a few feet away to put in a new tree (per HoA)
Wife likes #2 because we knew the guy (but never used him with our yard works) and he is very nice. Plus cheapest. However, his method will takes too long.
#3 and #4 are registered and insured. Good reputation. But #4 added the free tree trimming on the other tree and he did more explanation on how he will approach.
Wife's been trying to decided between #2, 3 and 4 the whole day.... $100 less to save a few bucks?
I like #4, but she is still deciding.
Also need to file an architectural change plan with HoA (even though its tree stuff) and they have to approve it first..
HoA i think i don't like you!