Over the first three installments of this series, we’ve explored the role of supplemental tree-support systems – why they’re needed, how they’re installed and the equipment required to implement them effectively. While these systems play a crucial role in mitigating risk and extending the life of structurally compromised trees, installation is only part of the equation. The real long-term value lies in ongoing inspections and maintenance, and in integrating these services into a broader tree care strategy.

By offering proactive inspections, structured maintenance plans and additional services that complement tree-support work, you can improve tree health while creating consistent revenue streams and strengthening client relationships. Photo courtesy of Rooted Arbor Care.

In this final installment, we’ll look at how arborists can maximize the business potential of tree-support systems. By offering proactive inspections, structured maintenance plans and additional services that complement tree-support work, you can improve tree health while creating consistent revenue streams and strengthening client relationships.

The business case for annual inspections
Installing a tree-support system isn’t a one-and-done service – it requires periodic evaluation to ensure its effectiveness. Over time, cables may loosen, attachment points can weaken and trees will continue to grow and change, altering the load dynamics of the system. Without regular monitoring, a failing or neglected system could become a liability rather than an asset.

Incorporating annual inspections into your service offerings provides multiple benefits, including:

• Risk management – Regular inspections help identify issues before they become major failures. Catching problems like frayed cables, excessive movement or signs of decay early on reduces the risk of failure, property damage and liability concerns.
• Client trust & retention – Consistent follow-ups reinforce your role as a trusted expert in tree care. Clients who see you proactively maintaining their trees are more likely to call you for future services rather than seeking out a competitor.
• Predictable, recurring revenue – Annual inspections create a dependable revenue stream similar to plant-health-care (PHC) programs. Instead of relying solely on one-time installations, offering ongoing maintenance turns tree support into a recurring income source.

A well-structured inspection program should include:

• A full evaluation of the tree’s structural condition.
• Assessment of cables, braces or guying systems for signs of wear.
• Recommendations for adjustments, replacements or additional care.
• Documentation with photos and notes to track changes over time.

By formalizing this into an annual or biannual service, you turn a single job into an ongoing relationship that benefits both you and the client.

Bundling tree support with PHC
One of the most overlooked opportunities in tree-support work is integrating it with plant health care. Clients who invest in cabling and bracing already recognize the value of preserving their trees, making them ideal candidates for PHC services. Supplemental support systems help stabilize trees, but without proper nutrition, pest management and soil health, their long-term effectiveness can be compromised.

Consider offering:

• Structured maintenance plans – Package tree-support inspections with PHC treatments such as fertilization, pest control or soil amendments. A tree with structural weaknesses often benefits from improved root-zone health, reducing additional stress.
• Bundled discounts – Offering a small discount for clients who sign up for both support-system maintenance and PHC services can increase buy-in and encourage long-term commitments.
• Client education – Many clients don’t realize that trees continue to grow and shift after a support system is installed. Cables may need tension adjustments, and bracing rods can be impacted by decay or shifting loads. Educating homeowners on why regular checkups matter makes them more likely to invest in ongoing care.

By positioning tree-support maintenance as an essential service rather than an optional add-on, you increase client retention and ensure better long-term tree health.

Leveraging site visits for additional work
Annual inspections do more than just verify system integrity – they provide valuable opportunities to identify and propose additional work. Every time you step onto a client’s property, you have the opportunity to strengthen the relationship, educate the client and generate more business.

Some ways to maximize these site visits include:

• Seasonal check-ins – Scheduling inspections before storm seasons or during high-growth periods allows you to address tree stress proactively. A system that was stable last year may need adjustments after a season of strong winds or heavy snow loads.
• On-site demonstrations – Clients are more likely to approve work when they can see the need for it. Showing them a frayed cable, a cracked limb under tension or decay around an anchor point helps them understand why immediate action is necessary.
• Cross-selling services – While performing a support-system check, you may notice other issues such as pest infestations, fungal infections or structural weaknesses that require treatment. Offering pruning, PHC or soil-remediation services while already on site makes it convenient for the client to approve additional work.

Arborists who take a holistic approach to tree care – rather than treating support systems as a standalone service – are better positioned to develop long-term client relationships.

Final thoughts: A win-win for clients and arborists
By integrating supplemental tree support systems into a broader tree care strategy, you create a sustainable business model that benefits both your clients and your company. Structured maintenance plans, annual inspections and proactive engagement turn one-time installations into ongoing service relationships. This approach not only ensures healthier, safer trees, but also establishes a steady stream of recurring revenue.

For arborists, the biological importance of these systems is already clear. Now it’s time to focus on maximizing the business potential. By positioning yourself as a long-term partner in tree care, you create lasting value – helping clients protect their trees while strengthening the financial health of your business.

Andy Jones, CTSP, is an ISA Certified Arborist, a TRAQ-credentialed production climber and co-founder of Rooted Arbor Care, a TCIA member company based in St. Louis, Missouri. He is also a member of TCI Magazine’s Editorial Advisory Committee.

Nicholas Greenwood, CTSP, ISA Certified Arborist, is a climber in Chicago with Bartlett Tree Experts, an accredited, 49-year TCIA member company based in Stamford, Connecticut.