Public advised to not use unlicensed tree surgeons

Islanders are being advised not to use unlicensed workers to remove trees which fell during Storm Goretti.

Following reports of an unlicensed and uninsured tree removal company operating in the island, the States of Guernsey said: "We would advise the public to avoid using them because they are unlicensed."

Hugo Ciotti, an arboricultural consultant in Guernsey, said he had informed police who he said were being "proactive" in dealing with it.

He said his main concern was the lack of insurance and qualifications.

He said: "It can leave already very vulnerable people in a worse situation and we just don't want the people of Guernsey... to be taken advantage of."

He said when an uninsured tree surgeon was used, any further damage to the customer's property or neighbouring properties would not be covered.

"After Storm Goretti unfortunately we've had innumerable calls come in from clients... of people getting scammed within a short matter of days after the storm," he said.

He added his advice was for people to check with the company to see if they have a website or a number.

Ciotti told BBC Radio Guernsey he felt the island was "keeping on top" of storm recovery quite well.

"It's not just the tree surgeons, I think we're all doing a very good job to help rebuild and get things back on track," he said.

After Storm Ciarán, it took most tree surgeons six months for their schedules to return to normal, he said.

Ciotti said: "I solidly believe that this storm has caused more damage, so I would say maybe seven to eight months realistically... I think it will be quite a while before we clear up completely."

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