What to Include in a Stump Grinding Quote Request

Give the provider enough information to scope the real job

Describe every stump and measure the widest part

List the number of stumps and measure across the widest visible base, including the root flare when it spreads beyond the trunk. Note whether the stump is tall, cut close to grade, partially uprooted, decayed, surrounded by rocks, or connected to large surface roots.

For multiple stumps, number them in your photos and note approximate widths. A single wide cottonwood-style base can require a different setup than several small ornamental-tree stumps even when the total count is similar.

• Number of stumps
• Widest base or root-flare measurement
• Approximate height above grade
• Visible surface roots or sprouts
• Tree recently removed, long dead, or storm damaged

Show the full equipment route, not just the stump

Access can affect the equipment choice, time, property protection, and whether the work is practical. Measure the narrowest usable gate opening and photograph turns, side yards, steps, slopes, gravel, pavers, turf, concrete, retaining features, and overhead clearance.

Include the route from the street or parking area to the stump. A wide gate does not solve a tight corner, weak bridge, low branch, narrow side yard, or soft section farther along the path.

Identify obstacles and private features near the work area

Mention known irrigation, drip lines, low-voltage lighting, pool plumbing, private utilities, septic components, fencing, foundations, patios, walls, edging, landscape rock, and other features close to the stump. Public utility locating does not identify every private system on a property.

Do not guess about buried features. Share what you know and ask the provider what must be marked, exposed, disconnected, or reviewed before grinding begins.

• Concrete, pavers, walls, fences, or buildings
• Sprinkler, drip, lighting, or private utility lines
• Pool, spa, septic, or drainage components
• Decorative rock, steel edging, wire, nails, or debris
• Living trees or roots that must remain protected

Explain the finish you need after the stump is gone

The correct scope depends on the next use. A lawn patch, xeriscape bed, artificial turf base, fence post, deck footing, retaining wall, driveway expansion, slab, shed, or replacement tree can require different depth, chip removal, excavation, fill, and compaction decisions.

State whether you want chips left onsite, consolidated, partially removed, fully hauled away, or replaced with soil. Stump grinding alone does not automatically include excavation, structural preparation, irrigation repair, concrete work, final landscaping, or guaranteed compaction.