Get Your Dead or Dangerous Trees Removed Safely
Clear Choice Tree Service provides fast, professional tree removal with free on-site estimates and same-day emergency response for all your tree removal needs in the Capital District
- ISA Certified Arborist
- Properly Insured
- 27 Years in the Capital District
You Shouldn't Have to Worry Every Time the Wind Blows
We know what it’s like to stare at that tree — the one leaning too close to the roof, or the one that’s been dead for two seasons — and feel that knot in your stomach every time a storm rolls through.
You’ve probably thought about calling someone. Maybe you’ve put it off because you weren’t sure of the cost, or worried about the mess, or didn’t know who to actually trust.
That’s exactly why Clear Choice does things differently. When you call us, you’re not getting a salesman with a clipboard. You’re getting Douglas — an ISA-certified arborist with 27 years of experience — who will show up, examine your tree honestly, and give you an honest recommendation about its needs. Even if that means telling you it doesn’t need to come down.
The Capital District's Trusted Tree Removal Experts — 27 Years, Zero Shortcuts
Tree and Stump Removal Service was founded in December 1999 by Douglas Kantrowitz — one of only five field-working ISA-certified arborists in the entire Capital Region.
We’ve safely removed and trimmed thousands of trees across Latham, Clifton Park, Albany, and the surrounding Capital District, while earning a five-star reputation — not because we’re the cheapest, but because we’re the best.
Every estimate we provide is developed by a certified arborist, and every job ends with a completely clean property. That’s not a slogan — that’s how we’ve stayed in business since 1999.
27 Years
Serving the Capital District
$4,000,000
Tree-Specific Liability Coverage
ISA Certified
Arborist on Every Single Estimate
Everything Your Trees Need
One Trusted Capital District Crew
Tree Removal
Safe, complete removal of any size. Hazardous, dead, storm-damaged — we handle it all.
Stump Grinding
Eliminate eyesores and trip hazards for good. Clean, fast, no trace left behind.
Tree Trimming & Pruning
Shape, health, and hazard reduction performed by a certified arborist.
Emergency Tree Service
24/7 response when a storm leaves a mess. We'll be there within the hour.
Crane-Assisted Removal
One of only a few companies in the Capital Region with an articulating crane — safer for your property.
Land / Lot Clearing
From single trees to full-acreage clearing. Commercial and residential.
Get Your FREE On-Site Estimate. No Obligation. No Pressure.
Here's What Happens When You Contact Us:
- We answer when you call
- We schedule a free visit at your convenience
- A certified arborist — not a sales rep — visits your property
- You get a clear, written quote before any work begins
- No surprises. No pressure. Honest answers only
Spring storm season is here, and Capital District homeowners are booking fast. Don’t wait until that tree becomes an emergency.
We call back the same day. No spam, ever.
Claim My Free Estimate
Getting Started Is Easier Than You Think
Step 1: Call or Fill Out the Form In Seconds
Tell us about the tree and your schedule. We'll handle the rest.
Step 2: We Come to You.
No Cost. No Obligation.
Douglas visits in person, assesses the tree, and gives you a written quote. Zero pressure. Zero obligation.
Step 3: Sit Back — We Handle Everything
Our crew removes the tree, hauls everything away, and leaves your property completely clean.
Warning Signs
Get Your Trees Inspected If You See:
- Dead or hanging branches over your roof, car, or driveway
- A noticeable lean that appeared or worsened after a storm
- Cracks, splits, or cavities in the main trunk
- Fungal growth, mushrooms, or soft spots at the base
- Roots lifting or cracking surrounding pavement or walkways
- Branches within 10 feet of power or utility lines
- Ash trees on your property (EAB infestation is common in our region)
Don't Wait Until That Tree Becomes a $15,000 Emergency
A dead or damaged tree doesn’t get safer over time — it gets more dangerous and more expensive to address. A fallen tree can cause significant property damage, and insurance often denies claims when homeowners were aware of a known hazard and didn’t act.
There’s also something most homeowners in New York don’t know: Under NY Scaffold Law §240, if an uninsured or underinsured tree worker is injured on your property, you — the homeowner — can be held personally liable. General liability doesn’t cover it.
Proactive removals cost a fraction of emergency removals.
Testiomonials From Clients Like You
Proudly Serving Latham, Clifton Park, Albany & the Surrounding Capital District
Tree and Stump Removal Service is based in the Capital District and serves homeowners and commercial properties across the region. Whether you’re in Latham, Colonie, Albany, Schenectady, Troy, or the surrounding suburbs, our crew is ready and typically scheduled within a few days.
Not sure if we cover your area? Call us — we’ll tell you right away.
- Latham
- Albany
- Schenectady
- Troy
- Guilderland
- Colonie
- Delanson
- Capital District
Questions Capital District Homeowners Always Ask Us
How much does tree removal cost in the Capital District?
Most residential removals range from $400 for a small, straightforward job to $20,000+ for large or complex situations. Emergency and crane-assisted removals can cost more depending on factors like site access and risk level. We always provide a FREE written estimate before any work begins, and you’ll know the exact price upfront. No surprises, ever.
Are you correctly insured?
Yes, we are fully insured. We carry a $4 million tree-specific liability policy and full workers’ compensation. This is different from general liability insurance (what most tree companies carry), which doesn’t cover aerial tree work above 10 feet. Instead, we carry what actually protects you. Under NY Scaffold Law §240, homeowners can be held personally liable if an uninsured worker is injured on their property. We make sure you’re covered.
There is no state-issued license to perform tree work in New York. It is the responsibility of the contractor to protect the homeowner.
Do you offer emergency or same-day service?
Yes. Storm damage and hazardous trees can’t wait. Call (518) 588-1919 and we’ll do everything we can to reach you the same day. Emergency calls are answered 24/7.
Will you clean up completely when you're done?
Always. We haul away all branches and debris and leave your property cleaner than we found it. Stump grinding is also available — just ask during your estimate.
Does a certified arborist actually come out, or do I get a sales rep?
Douglas — our ISA Certified Arborist — personally attends every estimate. He’ll assess the tree honestly, explain your options, and tell you what you actually need. Even if that means recommending you don’t remove the tree.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Albany or Latham?
Requirements vary by municipality and tree type. Often, no permit is needed — Douglas will advise you during the free estimate and help navigate the process if one is required.
How quickly can you get scheduled?
We typically schedule within a few days, not weeks. Once your job is confirmed, you’ll receive bi-weekly updates and an exact date the week of your appointment.
Ready to Stop Worrying and Reclaim Your Peace of Mind?
Clear Choice makes it simple. One call, one free estimate from a certified arborist, zero pressure. Join thousands of Capital District homeowners who trusted us and never looked back.
Or Fill Out the Form — We'll Call You the Same Day
No obligation. Upfront pricing. $4M insured. If you’re not completely satisfied, we make it right. Period.
- ISA Certified Arborist
- TCIA Member
- Properly Insured
- 5-Star Google Rated
- 27 Years in the Capital District
ISA Number: #NY-5978A
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