While tipping junk haulers is not required or expected, it is a greatly appreciated gesture for a job well done. Many junk removal companies state that tips are welcome but not mandatory. A good rule of thumb is to tip between 10% and 20% of the total bill, or a flat amount of $10 to $20 per worker. For exceptional service, a tip of $20 to $50 for the entire crew is also appropriate. It is often best to give cash directly to each worker at the end of the job.
Consider tipping if the crew:
Goes above and beyond your expectations.
Handles heavy, bulky items or navigates difficult spaces like tight hallways or stairs.
Works in inclement weather or deals with potentially hazardous materials.
Takes extra care to protect your home and property.
Accommodates a last-minute scheduling change.
Yes, you can conduct your own leaf removal, but consider that keeping up with leaf removal is time-consuming and requires regular yard work throughout the fall. The process can take a few hours a week. Professionals have lawn equipment that can speed up the process and save you time. Additionally, consider how you’ll dispose of the leaves. If your sanitation company won’t pick them up—especially if you have many bags from a once-annual cleanup— you’ll have to drive the bags to the dump. It’s usually easier to leave the work and disposal to a professional leaf removal service.
Although palm trees are self-pruning and will eventually remove their own brown leaves with new growth, there are a couple of instances when you might still want to go ahead and do the work yourself. For example, remove brown palm leaves if you live in an area with a greater risk of wildfires or if the leaves obstruct your pathway. But as long as the leaves pose no safety hazards, you don’t have to worry about pruning them.
In the short term, you’ll have a lot of fallen trees to deal with. Tree removal services costs typically start at $200 per tree and increase based on species and size. Then, you’ll have to deal with the loss of trees: That means a loss of shade and a greater risk of rain runoff and erosion. Also, you’ll miss out on the health and aesthetic benefits of having trees on your property, which could even affect the resale value of your home.
That being said, cutting down a tree it’s not always a bad idea. Trees growing too close to rooftops can present fire hazards or debris problems. You may need to remove diseased or dying trees to prevent future issues.
Yes, many pros leave clippings, as they break down quickly, enhancing your lawn’s nutrient profile without extra effort from you.
The Winthrop, MN homeowners’ guide to brush chipping services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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