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Tree Surveys
What Type of Tree Survey Do I Need?
The term “tree survey” can describe several different arboricultural services. A survey for a planning application will have a different purpose, scope and output from one prepared for a property purchase or to assess the safety of existing trees. The right survey usually depends on one simple question: What has prompted you to seek professional advice about the trees? This guide explains the most common types of tree survey, what each is intended to achieve and which one may
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Jul 296 min read
Arboricultural Resources
Articles and guides
What Type of Tree Survey Do I Need?
The term “tree survey” can describe several different arboricultural services. A survey for a planning application will have a different purpose, scope and output from one prepared for a property purchase or to assess the safety of existing trees. The right survey usually depends on one simple question: What has prompted you to seek professional advice about the trees? This guide explains the most common types of tree survey, what each is intended to achieve and which one may
What Is an Arboricultural Method Statement?
Retained trees can be affected not only by the final development layout, but also by the way demolition and construction work is organised and carried out. Machinery movements, excavation, temporary access, service installation, changes in ground levels and the storage of materials can all damage roots, soil, stems or branches if suitable controls are not in place. An Arboricultural Method Statement, commonly abbreviated to AMS, is a written document explaining how work close
What Is a Tree Protection Plan?
Construction activity can affect retained trees even where proposed buildings or structures are outside their Root Protection Areas or canopies. Tree roots and the surrounding soil may be damaged by excavation, changes in ground levels, material storage, machinery movements, ground compaction and the installation of services. Stems and branches can also be damaged where construction access or working areas are positioned too close to trees. A Tree Protection Plan, commonly ab
What Is an Arboricultural Impact Assessment?
An Arboricultural Impact Assessment, often shortened to AIA, is a report that considers how proposed development may affect trees on or close to a site. It is commonly used as part of the BS5837 process for planning applications where trees are relevant. A tree survey records the existing trees. A Tree Constraints Plan shows the main tree-related constraints. An Arboricultural Impact Assessment then considers how the proposed layout, access, demolition, construction and futur
What Information Should I Provide for a BS5837 Tree Survey Quote?
If you need a BS5837 tree survey quote, the most important information to provide is usually the site address and postcode. From the site address, an arboricultural consultant can often carry out an initial desktop review, consider the site location, estimate the likely number of relevant trees and understand the resources likely to be needed for the work. However, an address alone is not always enough, and additional information is always beneficial. BS5837 work can vary dep
What Is Included in a BS5837 Tree Survey Report?
If you are preparing a planning application where trees are on or close to the site, you may need a BS5837 tree survey report. This type of report is used where trees may affect, or be affected by, proposed development. It helps identify tree-related constraints early so that layouts, access, levels, construction methods and tree protection can be properly considered. A BS5837 report is not just a list of trees. It is a planning and design document that helps homeowners, arch
Do I Need a BS5837 Tree Survey for My Planning Application?
If you are submitting a planning application and there are trees on or close to the site, the local planning authority may require a BS5837 tree survey or arboricultural report. The short answer is: you may need one if trees could be affected by the proposed development, or if trees could influence the design, layout, access, construction method or future use of the site. This does not only apply to large development sites. A BS5837 tree survey may also be relevant for house
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