Experienced Tree Surgeon in Kensington
Discover Professional Tree Care in Kensington with Custom Cutters Tree Specialists. From tree surgery to surveys, we’ve got your trees covered. Fully insured and NPTC certified.
Professional Tree Surgeon in Kensington
We are a full service tree care firm of tree surgeons who are capable of carrying out work from the smallest shrub to the tallest tree. We are a service-oriented business and pride ourselves on professionalism and customer satisfaction.
Tree Removal
Professional tree removal in Kensington, safely handling trees of all sizes using controlled felling or sectional dismantling methods.
Stump Grinding
Quick and clean stump removal in Kensington to reclaim your outdoor space.
Tree Pruning
Expert pruning in Kensington to improve tree health, safety, and appearance.
Hedging
Hedge cutting services in Kensington to keep your boundaries neat and healthy.
Hazard Assessment
Identify tree risks early with professional inspections in Kensington.
Tree & Shrub Planting
Tree and shrub planting across Kensington, from species selection to aftercare.
Tree Dismantling
Safe sectional dismantling in Kensington, ideal for confined gardens and trees near buildings or boundaries.
Propping & Bracing
Structural support for weak or storm-damaged trees throughout Kensington.
About Custom Cutters Tree Specialists
Custom Cutters Tree Specialists is a renowned tree care firm founded by Robin Byles in May 1984, located near Kensington. With a strong commitment to professionalism and meticulous workmanship, we have established ourselves as trusted tree surgeons in Kensington.
We provide a comprehensive range of tree services across Kensington including tree surgery, crown reduction, crown thinning, and crown lifting, stump grinding and hedge care among others. Whether it’s tree removal, tree planting, tree reports, or tree surveys, our skilled team can handle projects of any size, from the smallest shrub to the tallest tree.
Exceptional Customer Service in Kensington
We are committed to delivering outstanding customer service in Kensington, combining expert advice with meticulous workmanship on every job. Whether we’re pruning trees in a private garden or carrying out a full removal near a conservation area, our team approaches each project with care, professionalism, and attention to detail. Our service-first ethos means we’re not just focused on tree work—we’re focused on your satisfaction.
Fully Insured Tree Surgery in Kensington
We’re fully insured to undertake all aspects of tree surgery, inspections, and maintenance in Kensington, from crown reductions and hazard assessments to stump grinding and tree planting. Our insurance includes:
- £10 million Employers liability
- £5 million Public and Products Liability
- £1,500,000 Professional Indemnity
Enhancing Landscapes Across Kensington
Trees are a vital part of the local environment in Kensington, and we’re passionate about helping them thrive. From mature oaks in established gardens to ornamental trees in newer developments, we tailor our services to meet the unique needs of your property and tree species. Whether it’s pruning, planting, or complete removal, we deliver careful, considered solutions that enhance safety and natural beauty.
Your Local Tree Experts in Kensington
Custom Cutters Tree Specialists offers a full range of arboricultural services in Kensington and surrounding areas of North London. With a focus on professionalism, safety, and long-term value, we use modern techniques and equipment to deliver reliable results for homeowners, landlords, and commercial clients alike..
If you require more information about our tree care services in Kensington call us on 020 8365 7722 or use our contact us form and talk to one of our experienced tree surgeons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing a reliable tree surgeon in North London can raise a lot of questions—especially when it comes to safety, regulations, and the services available. At Custom Cutters Tree Specialists, we believe in transparency and helping our clients make informed decisions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions we receive about our tree surgery services, qualifications, and what to expect when working with us. Whether you’re planning routine pruning or facing an urgent tree removal, you’ll find clear, detailed information to guide you.
What does a tree surgeon do, and why should I hire one in North London?
A tree surgeon, also known as an arborist, is a trained professional who specialises in the care, maintenance, and safe removal of trees and large shrubs. In urban areas like North London, trees often grow in tight spaces near homes, roads, or power lines—making expert care essential. A qualified tree surgeon like those at Custom Cutters can assess the health and structural integrity of your trees, perform pruning to encourage safe and healthy growth, and remove hazardous or unwanted trees using proper techniques. We also offer services such as stump grinding, crown reduction, and emergency tree work after storms or high winds. Hiring a certified and insured local professional ensures not only safety but also compliance with local council regulations, especially in conservation areas. Our team has decades of experience managing trees in North London’s unique environment, combining technical expertise with a deep respect for nature and the community.
Do I need permission to remove a tree in North London?
In many cases, yes—you may need permission from your local council before removing a tree, especially if it is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or located within a conservation area. North London boroughs such as Barnet, Camden, and Enfield have strict tree protection policies. At Custom Cutters, we’re well-versed in local regulations and can assist you in checking whether consent is required. If your tree is protected, we can help prepare and submit the necessary applications to the council. It’s vital not to carry out work on a protected tree without consent, as this could lead to heavy fines. We also offer tree surveys and professional reports to support applications for tree removal or pruning. If a tree poses an immediate danger, emergency work may be permitted without prior approval—but we always recommend seeking advice first. Our team ensures all tree works comply with legal and environmental standards across North London.
How do I know if my tree is dangerous or diseased?
There are several warning signs that a tree may be unsafe or in poor health. Look out for large dead branches, cracks in the trunk, fungal growth near the base, leaning, or a sudden loss of leaves. If you notice any of these, it’s important to have your tree assessed by a professional tree surgeon. In North London, where trees often grow near homes or public spaces, even a small issue can quickly become a safety hazard. At Custom Cutters, we offer hazard assessments to identify potential risks, such as structural weakness, root damage, or signs of disease. Our NPTC-certified team can determine whether remedial action—like pruning, bracing, or full removal—is necessary. Early diagnosis can help save a tree and prevent costly damage or injury. If you’re unsure about a tree on your property, don’t take chances—get in touch with our North London team for expert advice and peace of mind.
What is stump grinding and do I really need it after tree removal?
Stump grinding is the process of mechanically removing the tree stump left behind after a tree has been cut down. While some homeowners in North London choose to leave the stump in place, there are several good reasons to opt for grinding. Leftover stumps can become trip hazards, attract pests like termites or fungi, or even start to regrow. Stump grinding removes the stump below ground level, allowing the area to be re-landscaped, paved, or replanted. At Custom Cutters, we use modern stump grinders to efficiently remove stumps of all sizes, even in tight urban gardens. Our equipment is designed to minimise disruption to surrounding plants and soil. If you’re planning a new garden design, patio, or planting scheme, stump removal can give you a clean slate to work with. We offer this service across North London, whether as part of a tree removal job or as a standalone service.
When is the best time of year for tree pruning in North London?
The best time for tree pruning depends on the type of tree and the desired outcome. In general, most trees benefit from pruning during late winter or early spring, while they are still dormant. This helps reduce stress on the tree and allows wounds to heal before the growing season begins. However, some species are better pruned in summer, especially if you’re aiming to slow growth or remove large branches. In North London’s urban environment, safety and structural integrity are also major considerations—so we may recommend pruning at different times if a tree poses a risk to buildings or footpaths. At Custom Cutters, we assess each tree individually and schedule pruning work based on species, location, and condition. Our pruning services include crown thinning, crown reduction, crown lifting, and general maintenance, all tailored to encourage healthy growth and maintain shape. We also adhere to British Standards (BS3998) for tree work to ensure the best results.
Can you help with tree planting in built-up areas like North London?
Absolutely. Tree planting is one of our core services, and it’s particularly valuable in urban areas like North London where green spaces are limited. Whether you’re replacing a lost tree, improving curb appeal, or contributing to local biodiversity, choosing the right tree for your space is essential. At Custom Cutters, we advise on species selection based on soil type, light levels, available space, and long-term growth potential. We also handle the full planting process—digging, staking, watering-in, and aftercare—to give your new tree the best start. Our experienced team ensures the roots are planted at the correct depth and position to avoid future problems with drainage or buildings. We can also install root barriers where needed. Proper tree planting doesn’t just enhance your landscape—it supports cleaner air, wildlife, and stormwater management. Whether you’re in a small garden in Islington or a larger site in Finchley, we deliver expert planting tailored to your setting.
What is crown reduction and how does it benefit my tree?
Crown reduction is a pruning technique used to decrease the overall size of a tree’s canopy while maintaining its natural shape and structural integrity. It’s ideal for trees that have become too large for their surroundings—something we often encounter in densely built North London areas. This method involves removing specific outer branches to reduce the height and spread, helping to prevent interference with buildings, power lines, or neighbouring gardens. At Custom Cutters, our skilled team carries out crown reduction in accordance with British Standards (BS3998), ensuring cuts are made in the right places to promote healthy regrowth. Crown reduction also helps reduce wind resistance and the risk of storm damage. We avoid aggressive pruning and instead focus on balanced, precise cuts that maintain the health and aesthetics of the tree. If your tree is overshadowing your home or showing signs of stress, a crown reduction could be a safe and effective solution.
How do you handle tree work in tight or difficult access areas?
Urban properties in North London often present challenges like narrow passageways, limited garden access, and proximity to buildings. Fortunately, Custom Cutters has over 40 years of experience dealing with these constraints. We use a combination of expert rigging techniques, compact equipment, and manual dismantling to carry out safe, efficient tree work in confined spaces. For example, if a tree needs to be removed near a conservatory or boundary fence, we can dismantle it section by section using ropes and pulleys—lowering each piece to the ground without damage. We also carry out site assessments before any work begins, so we can plan the safest and least disruptive approach. Our team is fully insured and qualified to operate specialist machinery, and we always take care to leave your site tidy and undisturbed. Whether you have a terraced garden in Highbury or a back alley in Crouch End, we’re equipped to get the job done.
Do you offer tree surveys or reports for planning applications or insurance?
Yes, we do. Tree surveys and arboricultural reports are often required by local authorities in North London for planning permission, development projects, or insurance purposes. Whether you’re building an extension, applying for a tree removal permit, or responding to an insurance company’s request, we can provide detailed, professional reports tailored to your needs. Our tree surveys include a full inspection of the tree’s health, structure, location, and any risks it may pose. We use recognised survey methods and terminology, ensuring your report will meet the requirements of planning officers, insurers, or mortgage providers. If needed, we can also liaise directly with local councils to streamline the process. At Custom Cutters, we combine expert knowledge with decades of hands-on experience in urban tree management. Whether you’re in Hackney, Haringey, or Hampstead, our reports give you clear, practical guidance—and peace of mind—when it comes to managing your trees responsibly and legally.
Trusted Tree Surgeons Serving North London
Our team of certified tree surgeons, located in North London, provides a comprehensive array of tree care services to various towns and boroughs in the surrounding area, ensuring utmost expertise and quality:
If you would like to have a detailed conversation about your specific tree care needs, our dedicated team is here to listen, offer expert advice, and tailor our services to match your unique preferences and concerns.