FAQ
The questions operators ask first.
If yours isn't here, email us and we'll answer it directly.
How are leads qualified before they reach me?
Every enquiry passes an authority check (confirming the customer is entitled to commission the work), a mandatory UK mobile verified as a real mobile line, and an urgency classification. Customers are also prompted to add photos. Only then is the enquiry distributed.
Will I share a lead with other operators?
No. Leads are offered one operator at a time. The moment you claim a lead it locks exclusively to you and no one else can take it — there is no broadcast and no shared lead.
Does passing a lead count against me?
No. Passing simply advances the queue to the next eligible operator. There is no speed penalty and it does not affect your future priority.
What does it cost?
You pay only for the leads you claim — no deposit, no subscription, and nothing for leads you pass. Standard and emergency leads are priced differently; we share exact rates with you directly during onboarding. See the billing page for how it works.
What happens if a lead turns out to be a bad one?
You have a 48-hour window to raise a dispute against a defined set of reasons. Disputes are verified, and where one is upheld your account is credited automatically.
Do I keep my own brand and customers?
Yes. You quote, book and invoice the customer under your own business, at your own rates, and keep your books. ArborLink distributes the enquiry; the work and the customer relationship are yours.
Am I employed by ArborLink?
No. Operators are independent contractors. ArborLink is a lead-distribution platform and administrative facilitator, not a service provider or an employer. The agreement for the works is strictly between you and the customer.
What insurance and qualifications do I need?
At minimum: £5m public liability with arboriculture scope, NPTC CS30 and CS31, emergency first aid +F, and a valid waste carrier licence, alongside identity, business verification and a reference. Climbing, rigging and woodchipper work carry additional certificate requirements. See the panel requirements page.
Who operates ArborLink?
ArborLink is operated by a UK technology company. ArborLink is a lead-generation facilitator, not a service provider — full company and registration details are set out on our privacy policy and terms of use pages.
Is ArborLink a tree surgery company?
No. ArborLink does not carry out tree work. It is a platform that routes genuine local enquiries to vetted independent service partners, who carry out the work under their own businesses.
Still weighing it up?
Request the panel details and ask us anything — we'd rather you joined with the full picture.
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