Monster Tree Service of Lake County in Mundelein

Monster Tree Service of Lake County

(847) 892-1992 www.monstertreeservice.com

Equipment and Capabilities: Chipper

Tree Services: Large Trees, Works Near Structures, Tree Assessments, Cabling Bracing, Stump Removal, Tree Planting

Specialty Expertise: Works Near Power Lines

Emergency and Storm: 24 Hour Emergency Response, Quick Response

Customer Experience: Affordable, Cleanup Included

Whether you need a tree removal service for a construction project or you need tree trimming to beautify your property, Monster Tree Service can tackle it. Our crews have extensive training, skills, and equipment to handle any kind of tree service, from removing diseased branches to tree stump removal to reshaping old growth of massive trees. We can even plant trees to replace what we remove!

4.9 from 440 reviews

5 stars
412
4 stars
21
3 stars
2
2 stars
1
1 stars
4

Pros

  • Monster Tree Service is consistently professional, courteous, and reliable.
  • The arborists are very knowledgeable and provide expert care for the trees.
  • The team communicates clearly from initial quote to project completion.
  • They arrive on time and perform work efficiently with excellent attention to detail.
  • Cleanup is thorough, leaving the yard spotless and debris-free.
  • Their pricing is fair and provides excellent value for the quality of work.
  • They handle complex jobs safely, including work near houses, roofs, and power lines.
  • They offer thoughtful recommendations to keep trees healthy and prevent problems.
  • Proposals and estimates include photos and clear descriptions for transparency.
  • The staff is friendly, helpful, and easy to work with.

Cons

Based on reviews representing only 2% of total ratings

  • One reviewer described their experience as totally horrible, noting that workers blocked the entrance and caused loud, disturbing noise.
  • Another reviewer gave Monster Tree Service 4/5 because they provided an arrival window and did not contact them on the way.
  • A reviewer claimed Monster Tree Service cut down an apple tree that they were not supposed to remove and felt the discount did not compensate for the loss.

Review Overview

Monster Tree Service of Lake County in Mundelein is best suited for residential properties with mature trees, where job complexity matters and safety can’t be delegated. This outfit shines for mid-to-large yards, tight spaces, and projects that involve trimming branches over roofs or near power lines, removing multiple trees, or performing treatments to preserve specimens rather than defaulting to removal. Homeowners with a reasonable budget who want expert arborist input, documented estimates with photos, and careful, thorough cleanup will find them a compelling match. Urgency is well handled when emergencies arise, as the company consistently demonstrates rapid response, coordinated planning, and clear progression from estimate to completion.

What sets Monster Tree Service apart is an arborist-led approach that informs every decision. The company emphasizes evaluation by a trained arborist who can distinguish between trimming for health, structural support, or securing a tree against disease, rather than simply suggesting removal. Reviews repeatedly praise Steve, Bill, and the team for diagnosing conditions such as ash dieback, oak wilt risk, or insect pressure, and for offering practical, cost-conscious remedies like targeted trimming, cabling, injections, or growth regulators. This isn't a “cut-first” operation; it’s a consultative service that demonstrates why a healthy tree may be kept with targeted care instead of rushed removal.

Scheduling, estimates, and communications are consistently strong, and this matters as much as the work itself. Customers routinely receive detailed proposals that include photos of the site and clearly itemized scopes of work, often delivered by email within hours of the on-site visit. The presence of an arborist on the front end builds confidence that the plan will match field realities. The company staffs a responsive office and assigns knowledgeable representatives who walk the property with the client, answer questions, and keep everyone aligned on timing. While a few reviewers note a backlogged period or a windowed arrival, the recurring theme is transparent, courteous communication and predictable execution once the project is scheduled.

Safety standards and cleanup are non-negotiables for Monster Tree Service, and the reviews repeatedly confirm meticulous adherence. Work sites are treated with care to avoid collateral damage to landscaping, fencing, and structures. The crews coordinate with utilities, including contacting ComEd to shut down lines when necessary, and they implement protective measures such as careful crane or lift placement in tight spaces. Cleanup is routinely described as thorough, branches hauled away, debris removed, and even decks or patios left spotless. Several customers note that logs are cut for firewood or responsibly disposed of, and that the yard looks better or “like new” after completion. This is the benchmark customers should expect: professional equipment, documented safety protocols, and a finish that leaves no trace of heavy work.

Pricing reflects a practical balance between value and reliability. Monster Tree Service is praised for competitive, fair pricing and for providing transparent quotes that don’t surge after the project begins. While not the absolute cheapest option in every case, the cost is consistently framed as a smart investment for quality work, especially on intricate tasks near structures or utilities. The combination of thorough estimates, photos, and a clear path from proposal to invoicing helps customers feel protected against surprise charges. In short, the price reflects the level of care, expertise, and accountability that premium tree work requires.

The bottom-line takeaway centers on fit. For property owners who crave dependable, arborist-informed care, rigorous safety and cleanup, and professional project management, Monster Tree Service of Lake County is a standout choice. They excel on complex trimming, cable/brace systems for weak limbs, and strategic removals where proximity to houses or utilities demands precision and discipline. They are especially recommended for clients who value documentation (photos and written quotes), proactive communication, and a clean footprint after every job. For buyers chasing the very lowest bid or willing to tolerate inconsistent site conduct, there are cheaper options, but they will likely come with more risk and less accountability.

In sum, Monster Tree Service of Lake County serves as a decision-maker’s ally when the objective is to safeguard trees, protect property, and maintain landscape aesthetics with minimal disruption. The team’s arborist-led assessments, safety-first operations, and fast, clean turnovers position them as the prudent choice for discerning homeowners facing complex pruning, disease management, or removal tasks. They deliver a reliable, professional package that compounds value through education, careful planning, and a spotless closeout, precisely the combination needed to keep trees healthy and yards pristine, season after season.

Equipment and Capabilities

Chipper

On-site wood chipping turns bulky brush and branches into manageable mulch. Efficient cleanup and an option to keep the chips for your garden.

In Mundelein’s Lake County area, Monster Tree Service regularly brings a high-lift and a wood chipper to jobs, enabling on-site processing of branches. This on-site chipping is a recurring theme in their work, helping crews turn trimmed limbs into chips and keep the jobsite tidy. One client even noted that they shredded a truckload of branches and used the mulch for garden beds, demonstrating the practical, on-site value of the chipper. Overall, the pattern shows that the chipper speeds up work, reduces waste, and leaves yards clean and well-managed after pruning or removal.

Tree Services

Large Trees

Experienced handling oversized trees - tall, wide, or heavily branched. Removing or trimming a large tree requires specialized skill and equipment, and these pros have both.

Large-tree work is a core capability, with crews routinely removing or reshaping massive trees in tight spaces and near structures. Customers consistently report success handling very large removals, including trees hundreds of feet tall, using cranes, high-reach lifts, and careful pruning to protect roofs and foundations, followed by thorough cleanup. They frequently coordinate with utilities to shut down power when needed to access branches over lines, ensuring safe operations near power infrastructure. In complex cases near homes, they brace and cabling large limbs to preserve the tree while managing risk, then complete the job with minimal disruption and a pristine cleanup.

Works Near Structures

Skilled at working in tight spaces where trees sit close to homes, fences, garages, or power lines. Precision removal without damage to surrounding structures.

Near-structure work is a core capability, with arborists assessing proximity to roofs, walls, and utilities and advising when pruning or bracing can preserve a tree. Customers frequently note crews working safely in tight spaces, removing branches that overhang roofs and gutters, and leaving homes clean and undisturbed. Work near lines is coordinated with utilities, with reports of arranging power shutoffs when needed and using lifts or cranes to reach difficult angles. Major limbs near structures are often cabled or braced to reinforce strength while work proceeds, and cleanup is thorough so yards look untouched afterward. Overall, the approach emphasizes careful planning, seasoned guidance from arborists, and precise execution to protect structures while maintaining healthy trees.

Tree Assessments

Offers professional evaluation of your trees' health, structure, and risk level. Useful before buying property, after storm damage, or when a tree just doesn't look right.

Arborist-led assessments anchor their practice in Lake County, with an on-site arborist walking the property, examining each tree, taking photos, and delivering a written, photo-backed estimate. They consistently identify health concerns, pest and disease pressures (such as emerald ash borer and oak-related issues), and risks to structures or nearby power lines, guiding safer, smarter decisions. Based on the assessment, they propose tailored plans that may include pruning and retaining trees, cabling or bracing where appropriate, or removal, along with treatment options and even growth regulator applications to preserve or restore health. They coordinate necessary safety steps with utilities (for example, arranging power shutoffs when lines are involved) to execute work safely. Across projects, customers report knowledgeable arborists, clear communication, precise documentation, and thorough cleanup, reflecting a strong emphasis on accurate assessment followed by thoughtful, informed action.

Cabling Bracing

Installs steel cables or braces to support weak branch unions, co-dominant stems, or leaning trunks - extending the life of a tree you don't want to lose.

Cabling and bracing work is a core capability Monster Tree Service of Lake County uses to preserve trees that might otherwise be removed. They routinely install support wires on trees, including a birch tree where the crew put in the cables to stabilize the limbs. In one case, the team cabled the three main branches to provide support so the damaged limb could heal rather than be cut away. Another instance involved installing a cable to secure a large branch that hangs over a house, showing safe bracing in proximity to structures. Locally in Lake County, Illinois, this approach is paired with careful arborist guidance and thorough cleanup, reflecting a professional, measured process that aims to save trees when possible.

Stump Removal

Full stump extraction, root and all - not just grinding. Ideal when you need the area completely cleared for construction, landscaping, or replanting.

Stump removal is a standard part of Monster Tree Service’s work, with stumps ground below grade as part of the project and the area left clean after completion. In Mundelein and throughout Lake County, clients note efficient stump grinding that accompanies tree removals or trims, even in tight spaces near structures. Crews prioritize careful handling and proper equipment to protect surrounding landscaping while delivering a neat, thorough cleanup. Pricing tends to be described as fair with clear estimates, and the team communicates well from quote to completion.

Tree Planting

Not just removal - these companies help you add trees too. Proper planting technique gives new trees the best chance at a long, healthy life.

Planting new trees is part of their extended service in Lake County, enabling replacements after removals to restore and balance the landscape. Customers consistently note an expert, consultative process—arborists visit the property, discuss options, show photos, and provide detailed proposals before work. They value decisions to trim and retain healthy trees rather than immediate removal, and when removal occurs they often pursue a thoughtful plan that can include replacements. Overall, the team is praised for on-time, professional crews, thorough cleanup, and fair pricing, making Monster Tree Service a reliable partner in Mundelein and surrounding areas for planting and tree-replacement planning as part of full-service care.

Specialty Expertise

Works Near Power Lines

Trained and equipped to work near energized power lines. This specialized work requires specific qualifications - not every company should attempt it.

Power line safety is a central capability, with crews routinely coordinating with ComEd to shut off electricity when necessary to safely trim or remove branches near lines. Arborists assess line clearance needs on site and discuss options, including cabling or pruning to preserve trees rather than cutting them. To access tight spaces and lines, they bring in specialized equipment such as high-lift lifts and even cranes for near-line removals. Customers in Lake County, including Mundelein-area properties, report that power shutoffs are arranged smoothly, work is precise, and cleanup is thorough with no mess left behind. The patterns show a safety-first, highly communicative approach that handles work near power infrastructure and structures with careful planning and professional execution.

Emergency and Storm

24 Hour Emergency Response

Available around the clock for dangerous situations - a tree on your roof, a limb blocking your driveway, or a trunk threatening to fall. Day or night.

Emergency 24-hour readiness is evident in rapid responses to urgent hazards, such as a large branch falling into a neighbor’s yard, with customers praising swift emergency service. People repeatedly note quick response times and flexible scheduling, including crews arriving earlier than expected and coordinating with ComEd to shut off power when required. In emergency scenarios, they stabilize hazards with cabling and bracing of heavy limbs and deploy appropriate equipment to reach risky areas near structures or power lines. Across these incidents, safety, thorough cleanup, and proactive communication from the initial assessment through job completion reinforce trust in their emergency readiness.

Quick Response

Fast to answer calls and quick to schedule. Whether it's routine work or an urgent situation, these businesses don't leave you waiting.

Fast response is a defining pattern in Monster Tree Service of Lake County, with inquiries commonly met by quick quotes and prompt on-site assessments supported by photo-driven proposals. In urgent situations, customers can rely on emergency service delivered quickly, such as when a large branch fell into a neighbor's yard. They also coordinate with utilities to shut down power when needed, enabling safe and swift access to work near lines. Crews typically arrive on time, or even a bit early, perform efficiently, and leave the property with thorough cleanup. Communication is consistently strong—arborists walk the property, document findings with photos, provide detailed proposals, and keep customers informed throughout scheduling and execution.

Customer Experience

Affordable

Competitive pricing without cutting corners. These arborists offer fair rates and transparent quotes, making professional tree care accessible for most budgets.

Pricing is consistently described as affordable and competitive, with many noting fair quotes and, in some cases, the lowest price among bids. The service delivers a broad suite of capabilities at that value, including trimming, tree removal near structures, stump grinding, cabling/bracing, planting, and disease or insect treatments. Estimates are supplied with photos and itemized details, helping customers see exactly what will be done and price accordingly. This combination of transparent pricing, professional execution, and thorough cleanup leads to repeat business and strong referrals in Lake County.

Cleanup Included

All debris - branches, logs, and brush - is hauled away as part of the job. No pile left behind for you to deal with.

Cleanup is routinely included with their tree services in Mundelein and the Lake County area, with crews consistently removing branches, trimmings, and debris and hauling it away. Property owners repeatedly note that after work the yard looks clean, with decks, driveways, and landscaping free of debris. Thorough cleanup is a hallmark of their service, including blowing off areas, removing cut branches, stump grinding, and taking wood and chips off the site. Even in tricky jobs near structures or power lines, the crew cleans up meticulously, leaving no mess and protecting surrounding features. In many cases, customers report the cleanup was so thorough that you wouldn’t know work had occurred, with tidy, well-kept surroundings as the result.