FAQ's
Welcome to our FAQ page on Tree Surveys and Reports in London. Here, we answer common questions about tree assessments, planning applications, safety inspections, and BS5837 compliance. Whether you’re a homeowner, developer, or land manager, our expert insights will help you navigate tree-related regulations and ensure your project’s success.
What are Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and conservation area regulations?
What are TPOs and Conservation Area Regulations?
Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and conservation area regulations play a critical role in planning and development, particularly when it comes to trees. These regulations are essential to understand in the context of a BS5837 survey, as they can significantly impact a building proposal.
Tree Preservation Order (TPO): A TPO is a legal order that protects specific trees or groups of trees that have significant amenity value amongst the landscape. These trees cannot be pruned, felled, lopped, uprooted or otherwise interfered with without prior consent from your local London planning authority.
Conservation Area Regulations: If your trees are in a conservation area, all trees with a trunk diameter of 75mm or more (measured at 1.5m above ground) are automatically protected. You must give your local authority six weeks’ written notice of any intended work on such trees, even if they are not explicitly covered by a TPO.
“If you need to submit a planning application for tree works, we can do this on your behalf, contact us today.”
When do I need a tree report?
In many cases, our customers have been requested a tree report by their local London planning department on submission of a building proposal. A tree report is required for planning applications, safety inspections, insurance reports or to address disputes about a tree’s condition.
Why is a tree survey important for planning?
A tree survey for planning evaluates trees to inform London planning departments of trees on site, there condition, category and in some cases there impact on any proposal that allows them to make informed decisions while ensuring compliance with local planning regulations.
What is an arboricultural survey?
An arboricultural survey is term that is used amongst tree consultant professionals that references a survey of trees within a given area in order to collate data on trees and there condition that can then be used to form a detailed report.
Who will carry out my tree report and how long will it take?
Once booked one of our London tree consultants will attend your property or site to assess all the trees within your site, in most cases this can take one morning, afternoon and in some cases a whole day, thereafter another day is allocated for searches and report preparation. From point of enquiry to receiving your report, we usually allow for 5 days, although this can be accelerated on request.
How much does a tree report cost?
What factors affect the cost?
How can I find a tree surveyor in London?
Who would need a tree report?
A tree report may be needed by various individuals or organisations for several purposes:
- Homeowners and Property Managers:
To assess the health, safety, or structural integrity of trees on their property and address potential risks such as weak branches or signs of disease, these reports are known as tree safety reports. - Developers and architects:
To meet planning requirements when trees are present on or near a proposed development like in the case of a home extension. Surveys like BS5837 tree reports are often essential for planning applications. - Local Councils and Public Authorities:
To evaluate trees for protection under tree preservation orders (TPOs), ensure public safety in communal spaces or manage conservation areas. - Estate Owners and Landlords:
To oversee the health and maintenance of trees in shared spaces, estates, or rental properties, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. - Insurance Companies:
To assess risks related to trees, such as potential property damage caused by roots or falling branches during severe weather. - Legal Advisors:
To provide evidence or resolve disputes related to trees, such as issues involving boundaries, subsidence or legal obligations.
What is a BS5837 tree survey?
A BS5837 tree survey is a professional assessment conducted in accordance with the British Standard BS5837: “Trees in relation to design, demolition, and construction – Recommendations.” It evaluates the condition, category, and constraints of trees on or near a development site to ensure their protection and proper management during construction projects. This survey is typically required as part of a planning application process.
What is an arboricultural report?
An arboricultural report is a detailed professional document prepared by a qualified arborist or arboricultural consultant that provides expert insights into the condition, health, and safety of trees on a specific site. Depending on what report in necessary this includes a comprehensive assessment of each tree, detailing aspects such as species, height, age, canopy spread, and overall condition. It also identifies any structural defects, diseases, or risks posed by trees to people, property or infrastructure.
The arboricultural report is often used to guide decisions about tree management, including recommendations for pruning, removal or preservation. It is particularly important in the context of construction or development projects, where trees on or near the site must be evaluated for their potential impact. The report may include an analysis of how the proposed development affects the trees, such as root protection areas or canopy encroachments, along with strategies to minimise negative impacts.
In addition to development-related assessments, the arboricultural report may also address legal and regulatory compliance. This includes adhering to tree preservation orders (TPOs), conservation area regulations, and standards such as BS5837: “Trees in relation to design, demolition, and construction – Recommendations.” The report may also outline recommendations for long-term tree care, pest and disease management, or measures to improve soil conditions.
