TRENTON, N.J. — Legislation aimed at cracking down on unscrupulous tree service companies that target homeowners in the aftermath of storms advanced Thursday after passing the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
The measure, sponsored by Assemblymen Alex Sauickie and Gerry Scharfenberger, would strengthen the state’s Tree Experts and Tree Care Operators Licensing Act by adding new enforcement tools and penalty provisions designed to protect consumers.
Under current law, businesses that provide tree care services in New Jersey must be registered with the state Board of Tree Experts and employ at least one full-time licensed tree expert or licensed tree care operator, depending on the services offered.
“Many reputable tree care companies are overwhelmed after storms, which leaves the public vulnerable to operators who are either unqualified or underinsured. Additionally, most homeowner policies will not cover injuries or damage done by an underinsured tree care contractor, which places even more financial burdens on homeowners. This bill will provide recourse for homeowners and help deter bad actors,” Sauickie said.
Licensed tree care operators are authorized to perform services such as tree pruning and removal, stump grinding and brush removal. Licensed tree care experts may perform those services as well as fertilization, consulting, tree establishment, management, assessment and diagnosis and treatment of tree diseases.
The Better Business Bureau received 869 complaints related to tree services in 2023, and its 2024 risk report listed home improvement scams among the five riskiest categories. Officials said many consumers were targeted by door-to-door solicitors offering quick repairs following natural disasters.
“The ability to resolve complaints against tree service companies can be frustrating for consumers. This bill will provide a clearer pathway for resolution for homeowners who hired an unprofessional company, while ensuring those companies are held accountable,” Scharfenberger said.
Under the bill, known as A5012, the Board of Tree Experts or the state Department of Environmental Protection would be authorized to order compliance, bring civil actions or impose administrative penalties against violators. Penalties could include denial, suspension or revocation of a license or registration, as well as fines of $1,000 for each violation and $2,500 for subsequent violations. Businesses would have the right to a hearing to contest the allegations.
