Tree Survey and Reports
in London
What Is a Tree Survey?
A tree survey is a professional assessment conducted by our consultants to evaluate the condition, safety and value of trees within a designated site.
These surveys are conducted as a visual assessment on site and include detailed measurements, observations, tree categorisation and recommendations that help property owners, developers, architects, premises managers or architects comply with local London planning regulations and manage trees responsibly.
Tree surveys are vital for ensuring trees are managed safely, minimising risks to people and property while preserving the environmental benefits they provide.
Recommendations may include actions such as pruning, removal, or tree protection measures, particularly in areas undergoing development.
Additionally, these surveys often incorporate mapping and visual aids to clearly outline the location and condition of each tree within the site.
In many cases, a tree survey is required by London planning authorities as part of planning applications or development approvals. It helps ensure compliance with tree preservation orders (TPOs), conservation area regulations and other environmental regulations.
Beyond legal obligations, tree surveys promote informed decision-making, enabling better land management for construction, enhancing biodiversity and supporting the health and longevity of London’s tree populations.
What is a Tree Report?
A tree report is a detailed document prepared by our consultants to assess and provide insights into trees within a specific area.
Commonly used for planning applications, trees in development, mortgage reports and tree safety reports, it includes information such as tree species, dimensions, health and location. The report evaluates the condition of each tree, identifying issues like disease, pests or structural defects and assesses their ecological and landscape value to then categorise each tree for the purposes of BS5837 reports.
It further provides recommendations for preservation, removal, pruning or replacement and includes risk assessments to address potential hazards like falling branches or root damage.
All of our Tree Reports often feature topographical maps to illustrate tree locations and may include compliance details regarding local regulations or tree preservation orders.
These reports are widely used in development projects to mitigate environmental impact, in urban planning to maintain green spaces and in property transactions or legal disputes involving trees.
They play a critical role in balancing development needs with environmental conservation, ensuring informed decision-making by London planning authorities and sustainable land management.
“We have worked with all of London’s 32 boroughs planning departments over the years, from Brent, Barnet, Bromley, Richmond Upon Thames and Wandsworth. There isn’t a London borough planning department that we are not familiar with”
Who would need a tree survey or tree report?
Complying with planning applications and local authority requirements
Mitigating risks associated with tree damage or decay
Supporting construction and development project
Enhancing property value by maintaining healthy and aesthetically pleasing trees
Complying with health and safety regulations for tree owners and premises managers
Preserving ecological balance and biodiversity
Our Tree Survey Services
We offer a wide range of tree survey and reports, all tailored to meet your specific needs. Each service is carried out by an experienced tree consultant who understands the complexities of tree management and planning compliance.
Below is a breakdown of the services we provide:
Tree report and surveys for development under BS5837
The BS5837 standard provides guidelines for trees in relation to design, demolition, and construction. These surveys are a key requirement for planning applications and development projects involving trees. If you have been asked to submit a tree report as part of your building proposal we can help you!
Our BS5837 tree surveys include mapping and categorisation of all trees on-site, noting their species, size and condition and categorising them accordingly. We prepare Tree Constraints Plans (TCP) to identify root protection areas (RPAs) and canopy spreads. Additionally, we provide recommendations for tree retention, relocation, or removal to comply with planning regulations.
An Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) evaluates the effects of proposed construction or development on existing trees, ensuring responsible planning and compliance. Our AIA reports include an impact assessment of site changes on trees, strategies to mitigate damage such as root protection zones or construction techniques and integration of tree retention strategies into site design.
Arboricultural Method Statements (AMS) outlines specific measures to protect trees during construction, ensuring all parties adhere to agreed methods. Our AMS services include guidelines for tree protection during construction, compliance checks and monitoring and recommendations for protective materials and techniques.
Tree Protection Plans (TPP) Tree Protection Plans visually outline protection measures for trees during development activities. Our TPP services feature custom protection plans for your site, integration with construction schedules and compliance with your local London planning authority requirements. "Learn more about BS5837 tree surveys."
Tree Safety Reports - Tree Health and Condition Surveys
Regular tree health surveys are essential for identifying potential risks, such as disease, structural weaknesses or tree decay, which could compromise safety to the surrounding area or the property value of your home or premises. These surveys are vital for ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, but also ensuring the safety of structures and people around your home or premises.
Our tree safety reports include comprehensive inspections of trees, assessing their vitality and structure, identifying issues such as fungal infections, pest infestations and physical damage like cavities, included bark that might weaken a trees stability. Detailed diagnosis allows us to pinpoint specific health concerns or pests that could affect the long-term contribution of your trees.
Our surveys also include advice on preventative care, helping you maintain the long-term health and safety of your trees, reducing future risks and associated costs. "Learn more about tree safety reports."
Your Responsibilities
As a landowner or premises manager of a site or property containing trees, you have a legal responsibility to ensure that trees are maintained in a safe condition to prevent foreseeable harm or damage resulting from tree failure. This duty is outlined under the Occupiers' Liability Acts of 1954 and 1980.
For commercial properties, there is an additional obligation under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to conduct regular tree inspections. These assessments help ensure that trees do not pose risks to people or property, minimising the likelihood of preventable damage.
Fill in our free consultation form today to book your Tree Safety Report.
Pre purchase – mortgage tree survey and reports
When purchasing a property with existing trees, it’s advisable to assess their potential impact on the property and safety of your future home and to the surrounding area. Many mortgage lenders and insurers require a pre-purchase tree survey, also known as a Home Buyer’s Tree Report, to ensure that nearby trees do not pose a threat.
Our mortgage tree risk survey and reports for home buyers:
- Assessment of Potential Risks: We evaluate the likelihood of tree failure that could cause damage to persons or property.
- Structural Impact Analysis: Our survey identifies any direct damage that roots or branches may cause to the property or other build structures on your land.
- Subsidence Evaluation: We examine the risk of vegetation-related subsidence, particularly on clay soils, which can affect building stability.
- Tree Hazard Evaluation: Our tree consultants assess the health and stability of each tree to identify potential hazards.
- Legal Constraints Check: We verify the presence of any Conservation Orders or Tree Preservation Orders that may affect tree management options.
- Climbing Plant Assessment: We assess any damage to structures caused by climbing plants.
Our reports are tailored to meet the specific requirements of both lenders and buyers, providing clear recommendations to address any concerns promptly, facilitating a smooth property transaction.
Engaging a qualified arboricultural consultant for your pre-purchase tree survey ensures that all potential risks are identified and managed effectively, safeguarding your investment and complying with legal obligations. “Learn more about mortgage tree reports.”
To discuss your pre-purchase tree survey needs, please contact our Tree Survey Consultants today!
Frequently asked questions around tree survey and tree reports:
How long will a tree survey cost?
For most London sites with a small number of trees, our tree survey prices start at £400.00. The overall cost depends on the scope of your project and the specific survey type you require, with a tree survey and tree report for a building proposal being the most complex. Factors such as the level of detail needed, like shading analysis or assessments of canopy spreads and root protection areas as outlined in BS5837 standards can also influence pricing.
How long will a tree survey take once booked?
Once we have a booking and confirm a date for one of our tree consultants to conduct your tree survey, a tree survey and compiling the report can take up to three days, although in some cases if time is critical, we can turn this out quicker. In most cases, we allow for one day to conduct the site survey and then one to two days to complete and submit our report.
Where are you based?
We have been rooted in London since 2011 giving us years working with London planning departments. All of our staff directly work here at London Tree Survey Consultants who also live within London. We take pride of our London roots and our commitment to our tree community partners.
Why Choose Us?
Choosing the right tree consultants for your tree survey is essential for achieving accurate, actionable results. Here are just a few reasons why clients trust us:
Qualified
Our qualified tree consultants know trees, planning, legislation and arboricultural standards and practices. With extensive training and certifications, we bring expertise to every project.
Comprehensive Reports
We pride ourselves on delivering clear, concise and detailed reports that meet the specific requirements of local planning authorities. Our reports are designed to facilitate smooth building proposal approvals and effective decision-making by London planning authorities.
Compliance with Industry Standards
All our surveys and reports adhere to the BS5837:2012 standards and other relevant regulations. This ensures that your projects meet all necessary compliance requirements, allowing for smooth planning approval.
Timely and Reliable Service
We understand the importance of meeting deadlines, especially in the fast-paced world of development and construction. Our expert tree survey consultants in London want you to achieve your building proposal efficiently by providing timely and accurate results.
Client-Centric Approach
We prioritise your needs and goals, offering tailored solutions to address the unique challenges of your project. We are always available to answer your questions and provide ongoing support.
