Warning: Carlton Tree Company

Summers Landing Residents,

There are some tree people, Carlton Tree Company, in the neighborhood asking residents if they have any trees to cut down.

A resident asked to see their insurance certificate, a copy of which they provided. The resident then called the insurance company and discovered that the policy was bought in December but cancelled in February. Apparently this company is using the certificate they obtained when they bought the policy as proof of insurance even though they cancelled shortly after the purchase, figuring that most people would not bother to call the insurance company to verify that the insurance was still in force.

This leads us to wonder whether this is unique to this company or whether this is a tactic used by other companies as well. It would probably be a good practice for homeowners to call a prospective tree company’s insurance carrier to verify the insurance before hiring them. It’s also a good idea to get at least 3 estimates when dealing with tree people. Their prices often vary significantly. This gives the homeowner time to check out their insurance before deciding on a company to do the work.

Additionally, If you see a Carlton Tree Service truck, please call the sheriff immediately at (540) 582-7115, but do not let the Carlton people know you are calling. The owner of the company is WANTED by the sheriff, apparently for drug dealing.

Summers Landing HOA Board