Matt Latham
ISA Board Certified Master Arborist (#TX-3737B)
ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist (RCA #859)
ASCA Tree & Plant Appraisal Qualified
Most people don’t think about the dollar value of the tree in their front yard until something goes wrong—until it’s damaged in a storm, accidentally removed, or the subject of a property dispute.
Unfortunately, That’s when the question comes up:
“What’s that tree even worth?”
And that’s exactly where a tree appraisal comes in.
So, What Is a Tree Appraisal?
A tree appraisal is the process of assigning a real, defendable dollar value to a tree. It’s not a guess, and it’s definitely not sentimental.
Tree appraisals follow standardized methods established by the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers (CTLA) and ANSI A300 standards, using factors like:
- Species
- Size
- Condition
- Location
- Functional or environmental benefit
Just like real estate or fine art, trees can (and should) be appraised using an objective framework.
Why Tree Appraisals Matter
Guess What – Your trees aren’t just living things—they’re part of your property’s financial ecosystem. because of their unique nature, they can add value, contribute to curb appeal, reduce energy costs, provide environmental benefits, and in some cases, serve as historic or legacy assets.
A tree appraisal is most commonly needed for:
- Insurance claims (storm, fire, or accident damage)
- Neighbor disputes (property line conflicts, damage claims)
- Construction projects (removal, mitigation, or preservation planning)
- Legal or court cases (tree trespass, wrongful removal)
- Real estate and land valuation
- Municipal code enforcement or mitigation requirements
If you’re asking, “Should I get this appraised?”—you probably should.
How It Works
Despite what it may seem, tree appraisals aren’t about pulling numbers out of thin air. Conversely, calculated process based on field data and industry formulas. Here’s what I assess on-site:
- Species – Some trees are more valuable based on longevity, desirability, or ecosystem services.
- Size – Height, canopy spread, and trunk diameter (DBH) all contribute to overall value.
- Health & Structure – Is it thriving or declining? Has it been properly maintained?
- Location – Is it enhancing the site’s value or creating a hazard? Shading a home? Screening a view?
- Function – Does the tree provide privacy, erosion control, or wildlife habitat?
Once I collect the data, I run it through industry-recognized valuation methods to produce a final report. The report includes documentation, images, measurements, methodology, and—most importantly—a credible value backed by science and standards.
Real-Life Example
A few years ago, a homeowner hired me after a contractor mistakenly removed their backyard live oak. It wasn’t massive, but it offered privacy, shade, and long-term aesthetic value.
One time, after conducting the appraisal, I valued the tree at over $54,000. The homeowner was floored—they had no idea it carried that kind of weight.
That number became the basis of a legal claim, and it was settled in the homeowner’s favor. No courtroom drama, no drawn-out arguments. Just solid, defensible documentation.
Who Performs Tree Appraisals?
This isn’t work for just anyone with a measuring tape. Tree appraisals should be performed by professionals who are trained in the methodology and qualified to deliver expert testimony if needed.
As a Board Certified Master Arborist, Registered Consulting Arborist, and ASCA Tree & Plant Appraisal Qualified (TPAQ) professional, I use the most up-to-date standards and ensure my work stands up to scrutiny—whether that’s in court, at city hall, or across the negotiating table.
The Bottom Line
A tree appraisal tells you what your tree is really worth. It’s a tool of protection, negotiation, and planning.
And it’s almost always better to have one before you need it.
If you’ve got a tree you’re concerned about—whether it’s facing removal, caught in a dispute, or just a valuable part of your landscape—reach out. I’d be glad to help you understand its value and what steps to take next.
Need a tree appraisal?
Schedule your consultation at www.arboristondemand.com or email me at in**@**************nd.org
My Best,
Matt Latham
ISA Board Certified Master Arborist #TX-3737B
ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist #859
ASCA Tree & Plant Appraisal Qualified
713.385.7040 | www.arboristondemand.com
