Trees add character, shade, and environmental benefits to a property but also come with responsibilities. Whether you are buying a new home, planning construction work, or are concerned about a tree’s condition, a tree survey provides essential information to guide your decisions. Understanding what tree surveys involve, why they matter, and when they should be carried out can help homeowners manage their trees effectively and avoid potential issues.

What is a Tree Survey?

A tree survey is a professional assessment carried out by an arboricultural consultant to evaluate trees on a property. It involves recording species, size, health, structural condition, and potential risks. The findings are compiled into a report, informing homeowners about their trees' status and any recommended actions.

The scope of a tree survey varies depending on its purpose. Some surveys focus on identifying risks, while others assess the impact of planned development on trees. Regardless of the type, a tree survey ensures that trees are managed responsibly, legally, and in a way that supports their longevity.

Why Are Tree Surveys Important?

Tree surveys provide vital information that helps homeowners make informed decisions about their trees. Key reasons to carry out a tree survey include:

• 
  Safety Assurance: Trees with structural weaknesses or diseases may pose a risk to people and property. A survey identifies potential hazards and recommends necessary maintenance or removals.
• Legal Compliance: Some trees are protected under Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or located in conservation areas, meaning that specific permissions are required for pruning or removal. A tree survey ensures compliance with local regulations.
• Planning and Development: If a resident intends to build an addition, construct a driveway, or alter their property, they need to know whether nearby trees will be damaged and how that damage can be mitigated.
• Property Value and Insurance: Trees can impact property values both positively and negatively. A survey highlights any risks, such as root damage to foundations, which may be relevant for insurance purposes or property sales.
• Tree Health Management: Regular surveys help identify diseases, pest infestations, or soil issues early, allowing proactive care to extend a tree’s lifespan.
  
  

When Should Homeowners Consider a Tree Survey?

Not every homeowner needs a tree survey, but there are several situations where it is advisable:

• Before Buying or Selling a Property: A survey can identify potential risks, such as subsidence caused by tree roots, which may affect mortgage approvals or insurance policies.
• After Severe Weather: High winds, storms, or heavy snowfall can weaken trees, making a post-weather assessment useful to check for hidden damage.
• When Trees Indicate Decline: If a tree has cracks, dead branches, leans or shows fungal growth, the survey will reveal if action is needed.
• Pre-Construction: Building work around trees should be planned to ensure that roots and stability are not damaged. A tree survey helps prevent damage during development.
• To Comply with Local Regulations: If trees on the property are protected or located near public land, a survey may be required before making any changes.

Types of Tree Surveys for Homeowners

Different types of tree surveys cater to various needs. The most common include:

• Tree Condition Surveys: These focus on the health and stability of trees, identifying any issues that may require attention.
• Mortgage and Insurance Surveys: Often requested by lenders and insurers, these surveys assess whether trees pose a risk to buildings or underground services.
• Pre-Development Surveys: Required for planning applications, these surveys evaluate how construction projects may impact trees and provide guidance on tree protection measures.
• Tree Preservation Order (TPO) Checks: If a property has protected trees, a survey helps homeowners understand what work is permitted and how to apply for consent if necessary.
  
  

What Happens After a Tree Survey?

Once a survey is completed, the arboricultural consultant provides a report outlining key findings and recommendations. Depending on the results, actions may include:

• Tree Maintenance: If a tree requires pruning, bracing, or pest treatment, the report will provide guidance on the best approach.
• Tree Removal: If a tree poses an unacceptable risk or is in poor health, removal may be advised, subject to legal permissions if applicable.
• Soil or Root Management: If soil compaction, root damage, or nutrient deficiencies are detected, solutions such as aeration or soil amendments may be recommended.
• Protective Measures for Development: If construction is planned, the survey will suggest methods to prevent damage to trees, such as protective fencing or root-friendly construction techniques.
  
  

Making the Most of a Tree Survey

A tree survey is not just about identifying problems—it is also a valuable tool for long-term tree care. By understanding the current condition of trees, homeowners can take proactive steps to maintain them, ensuring they remain an asset rather than a liability. Whether for safety, legal compliance, or property improvements, tree surveys offer a structured way to manage trees responsibly.

FAQs

How long does a tree survey take?

A basic tree survey for a residential property typically takes a few hours, depending on the number of trees and the level of detail required.

Do I need a tree survey before removing a tree on my property?

If the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or in a conservation area, permission is required. A tree survey helps determine whether removal is necessary and supports the application process.

Can I carry out a tree survey myself?

While homeowners can check for visible signs of tree health, a professional tree survey provides a more thorough assessment, especially for safety concerns or legal requirements.

For more helpful information about tree surveys, visit Treework Environmental Practice.

© Treework Environmental Practice

In the midst of our bustling cities and towns, there's a quiet world of green that often goes unnoticed—the world of trees. These majestic beings aren't just pretty to look at; they're vital to our environment and well-being. Welcome to the fascinating realm of tree care, where science and art come together to nurture these silent guardians.

Picture a golden sunset casting its warm glow over the horizon—it's the perfect backdrop for our journey into the heart of tree care. Beyond their beauty, trees hold secrets about ecosystems and culture. Join me as we wander through the rich tapestry of tree knowledge and discover how to care for these vital parts of our environment.

Arboreal Ecosystems

Arboreal ecosystems encompass a diverse range of habitats, each with its unique characteristics and inhabitants. From dense rainforests teeming with biodiversity to urban parks dotted with carefully curated greenery, trees play a pivotal role in shaping the environment around them.

In addition to providing habitat for countless species of plants and animals, trees also offer many ecosystem services, from regulating local climates to reducing soil erosion. By preserving and protecting these ecosystems, we can safeguard the invaluable benefits they provide to wildlife and human communities.

Anatomy Unveiled

The anatomy of a tree is a marvel of natural engineering, with each component playing a crucial role in the tree's overall health and vitality. Beneath the soil, intricate root systems anchor the tree in place and extract essential nutrients and water from the earth.

Above ground, the trunk and branches provide structural support, while leaves act as the tree's solar panels, converting sunlight into energy through photosynthesis. Understanding the intricate workings of a tree's anatomy allows arborists to diagnose issues, implement targeted treatments, and promote overall tree health.

Nurturing Tree Health

Just like we look after our health, caring for our trees is also important. Regular check-ups and maintenance can help protect trees from pests, diseases, and other threats, ensuring they stay healthy and strong for years. In addition to regular maintenance practices such as pruning and watering, arborists employ various advanced techniques to ensure the health and longevity of trees under their care.

These may include soil testing to assess nutrient levels and pH balance, canopy thinning to improve air circulation and light penetration, and root collar excavation to alleviate soil compaction and promote root growth. By staying abreast of the latest research and techniques in tree care, arborists can provide the highest level of care for the trees entrusted to them.

Surveying the Terrain

Knowledge is key to tree care, and that's where tree surveys come in. These detailed assessments give us insights into a tree's health and structure, helping us make informed decisions about its care and management. As technology continues to evolve, so too do the methods used to survey and assess trees in urban environments.

In addition to traditional ground-based inspections, arborists now have access to various high-tech tools and techniques, including aerial drones equipped with specialised cameras for aerial surveys, laser scanning technology for detailed 3D mapping of tree structures, and acoustic devices for detecting internal decay or cavities. These advanced surveying methods enable arborists to gather precise tree health and structure data, allowing for more informed decision-making and proactive tree management.

Tree Guardianship

As stewards of the earth, it's up to us to protect and nurture our urban forests. By embracing tree care principles, we can deepen our connection to nature and ensure the well-being of our trees. As stewards of the environment, it is our collective responsibility to ensure the health and vitality of our urban forests for future generations to enjoy.

This requires a commitment to tree guardianship—a dedication to protecting and preserving trees through sustainable management practices, responsible development decisions, and active community engagement. By working together to care for our trees, we can create healthier, more resilient urban environments that benefit both people and nature.

Professional Tree Surveys

When caring for trees, it pays to bring in the experts. Professional tree surveys conducted by qualified arborists thoroughly evaluate a tree's health and safety, helping us keep our urban forests safe and healthy.

Qualified arborists conduct these surveys, utilising their expertise to identify potential hazards and recommend appropriate interventions. By investing in professional tree surveys, we can ensure the safety of our urban forests and the well-being of those who inhabit them.

Understanding Tree Health

Keeping trees healthy is a top priority in arboriculture. Understanding the signs of tree distress and taking early action can prevent problems from escalating and keep our trees thriving.

Cultivating Urban Forests

In our rapidly growing cities, urban forests are more important than ever. By preserving and expanding these green spaces, we can create healthier, happier communities for generations to come.

Empowering Communities

Tree care isn't just a job for the experts—we can all get involved in it. By joining as a community to plant and care for trees, we can make a real difference to our environment and quality of life.

As we wrap up our journey through the world of tree care, let's take a moment to appreciate the beauty and importance of the trees around us. From their roots in the soil to their branches reaching for the sky, trees are a reminder of nature's wonder and resilience. Let's continue to care for them so they can continue to care for us.

FAQ

How can I tell how old a tree is, and why does it matter?

You can estimate a tree's age by counting its rings or measuring its growth rate. Knowing a tree's age can help us understand its history and health needs.

Are certain trees more prone to pests and diseases, and how can I spot and prevent these issues?

Yes, some tree species are more vulnerable to certain pests and diseases. Observing common signs of trouble, like discoloured leaves or dieback, can help us catch and treat problems early.

What new technologies are shaping the future of tree care?

Innovations like drone-based surveys and soil improvement techniques are revolutionising tree care, making it easier and more effective to keep our urban forests healthy and thriving.

© Treework Environmental Practice

We all understand the importance of trees, and the many benefits they bring to the planet. The little things that we do to trees are less obvious. Some of these you may think are beneficial. Before you care for your trees, make sure you read this list.

Too much staking or guying a tree

Staking or guying a tree means using ropes or stakes for tree support. Trees don't require support and even if they do need it, it is usually for a brief period. This method could lead to bark damage, abnormal growth of the trunk, or girdling, to name a few.

Girdling a Tree

Wrapping the tree's bottom with plastic may seem like you're doing your tree a favor. This is supposed to protect the tree against lawn mowers and weed whackers. But it causes more harm than good. A tree's trunk will die slowly if it has a plastic cover. It’s better to add mulch around the tree to keep weeds away and retain moisture.

Mulching too close to a tree's trunk

Mulch placed too close to a tree's trunk can cause the tree to choke. Experts recommend that mulch be kept at least six inches from the trunk of young trees and at least a foot from mature tree trunks to prevent this from happening.

Hanging bird feeders with nails and screws

Anything that gets under the bark of a tree can cause it to be infected or become ill. It may also cause damage to the cambium, which is the part of the tree where cells divide and increase the tree’s girth. The tree may grow around screws and nails if you put them in it, which will make it dangerous to cut down or trim the tree later.

Tie Your Dog to a Tree

Although it may appear harmless, tying your dog to a tree can cause damage to the bark. Dogs can tug and jump against trees, which could be harmful to the bark. The trees' first line of defense against insects and disease is the bark. If it becomes damaged, it can cause serious damage.

Pruning your Tree in the Wrong Season

Pruning your tree when the weather is not right can make it weaker and more vulnerable. People believe that fall is the best season to prune, but this is incorrect. As they prepare for winter, trees focus their energy on the roots of their trees in the fall. Trees that have suffered cuts during the autumn months due to pruning will not be able to heal in time for the harsh winter, so they are left exposed.

Concrete to Fill Tree Cavities

A common myth is that tree cavities should be filled to improve their structural strength. Tree cavities can be best treated by the tree itself.

Power Lines
Trees cannot touch power lines. Power companies won't allow them to. The company will require you to trim or remove any tree that is near a power line.

Improper Pruning

Contact your local arborist if you have any questions about how to prune your tree. If done incorrectly, this is an important task that can cause the tree to fall.

Too many trees or plants

Too many trees or plants that are close together will result in them competing for sunlight, food, and water. This can cause some plants to thrive and others to die. This can be avoided by strategically planting trees and taking into account the tree's potential growth.

Construction or covering the roots

Trees may also die when you store harsh chemicals or build over their roots, which are their organ system. They’re what keep trees healthy and alive. If they fail to function properly, the tree will eventually die. Avoid building structures over tree roots, digging around tree trunks, or parking or storing equipment above the root zone.

Salting near the Tree
Salting roads is essential. However, salting near trees can cause harmful reactions. Salty soil can kill trees, grass, or other plants.

Use of Herbicides and Pesticides

They will not only keep the pests away, but also harm your trees. Mulch around trees is a good idea to prevent weeds.

Knowing what is good for your tree is the hardest part of tree care. For the best tree care practices, do your research and contact an arborist.

© Treework Environmental Practice

Concerning tree law in the UK, several critical factors exist to consider. The following guide provides more information on some of these essential factors.

Dangerous trees
In almost all cases, the one responsible for trees' safety is the landowner where the trees in question grow. There are some exceptions, such as when a rental agreement puts the tenant in charge of tree management. In all other cases, the tree manager has a duty of care to provide care such that their neighbours don't experience any problems. A tree owner also has the duty under the Occupiers Liability Acts to take proactive steps in ensuring visitors on the land are safe. This means that if a tree falls, the owner is liable. If it is proven that the owner has been negligent, such as allowing tree damage to corrupt the tree, then they can face the law. To avoid this, tree owners should always look to inspect their trees with the aid of arboriculturists.

Encroaching roots and overhanging trees
In general, the 'common law' makes provisions for pruning branches and roots that go over the boundary between properties even without consent from the owner. However, any works undertaken should be meticulous not to damage the tree because such acts are liable. It is always best to discuss matters with the tree owner before taking action. Consulting an arboriculturist, in this case, is always a good idea. If overhanging branches or encroaching roots have caused damage to a property, the insurer will approach the owner to decrease the issue and arrange repairs.

Tree protection
There are a few ways for trees to be protected in the UK.
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) – Local Councils, within their role as Local Planning Authority, administer TPOs. Their goal is to protect trees that add amenity value to the area. A TPO means it is an offence to top, lop, uproot or cut down a tree under protection without the local planning authority's consent. Hedges, bushes and shrubs cannot fall under a TPO, but it can be made for anything from a specific tree to an entire woodland. Anyone wishing to work on trees under a TPO should fill out an application form and send it to their local planning authority.

Conservation areas

parties that wish to do any work on conservation areas, need to send out six weeks prior notice via email, letter or the official form with a detailed explanation of the proposed results. The local planning authority can issue a Tree Preservation Order during that time.

Restrictive covenants

Essentially a promise between two parties, such as the buyer and seller of a property/land, to not do certain things to the area. It is binding to the land and not an individual owner, meaning it is a place even if the current owner sells the property to another owner.

Felling licenses
Felling a tree in a garden is possible, even without a felling license. However, for a tree outside a garden, applying to the Forestry Commission for a felling license is always recommended. This is regardless of whether a TPO covers the tree in question.

© Treework Environmental Practice

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