Damage to customer properties

Over the past 12 months there has been an increase in damage caused to customer and in some case third party (e.g. neighbours) property, by our Tree Partners as they undertake work on Enviro’s behalf. This has impacted customer relationships as well as significantly impacting our insurance premiums.

It is a requirement when working on an Enviro Trees job that a Site-Specific prestart Risk Assessment be completed on site at the start of the job and all workers on site be included in this. Any potential damage must be noted on this including the control measure to reduce the risk of damage.

Tips to manage the risk of damage and claims

• Take good ‘before’ photos of work or set up areas- e.g. lawns, driveways, paths etc

• Using track mats for lawns • Covering fences, gates, paths as needed to prevent drag marks

• Ensure if cranes used then ensure they are positioned and set up to minimise damage to driveways, lawns, etc.

• Ensure your crews are advised of the risks and how to manage them, e.g. lowering/dropping of branches in a way that minimises damage to property

• Advise Enviro Trees customer care if you feel there is still a risk of damage we need to communicate to our customer

If damage occurs, please advise customer care or our Operations Manager, Nick Clark asap to assist us to manage communication to the customer. Please take photos of any damage the day that it occurs and forward these photos to Enviro Trees.

Use of sub-contractors (e.g. cranes)

You have responsibility for sub-contractors you engage, so:

• Ensure they understand the scope of work

• Ensure they have PL and workers compensation coverage

• Work with them to ensure they set up and operate in a safe and appropriate way to minimise damage

• Be prepared to rectify damage caused by your sub-contractors.

Customers:

Ensure you communicate clearly with the customers so they understand the scope of work and risks associated with you undertaking this work, including potential damage that may be difficult avoid, or require you to reattend at a later date, e.g. when grounds dry out. If need be, we can support you with a letter setting out these risks, however from experience, this will not prevent or invalidate claims for damage, or customer dissatisfaction.

As always, if in doubt please contact Enviro Trees on 1300 077 233 and we may advise and seek further instructions from our customers.

Published: September 2025