# Choose an arborist with confidence

Learn how to describe a tree concern, check an arborist and recognise proposals that need more questions.

- Level: Foundations
- Length: 45 minutes
- Exam questions: 8, pass mark 80%, up to 3 attempts
- Certificate: valid for 12 months

## What you will learn

- Prepare a useful brief for a tree care visit.
- Check credentials, references and insurance separately.
- Recognise pruning objectives and the problems with topping.

## Lessons

1. [Start with the tree and the decision](https://arborists.fyi/academy/choose-an-arborist/start-with-the-tree.md) (12 minutes)
2. [Check the person and the business](https://arborists.fyi/academy/choose-an-arborist/check-the-person-and-business.md) (12 minutes)
3. [Understand what a pruning proposal promises](https://arborists.fyi/academy/choose-an-arborist/understand-pruning-proposals.md) (12 minutes)

## Questions

### Does this qualify me to carry out tree work or assess trees professionally?

No. It provides a certificate of completion from arborists.fyi, not a licence, accreditation or professional qualification. Use appropriately trained professionals for tree assessment and hazardous work.

### Do these lessons state the rules for my location?

No. Permissions, ownership questions and other requirements vary by place. Check the relevant local authority and obtain appropriate local advice.

Also on the [web page](https://arborists.fyi/academy/choose-an-arborist).