Trees provide numerous benefits and the risk of harm in the event of failure is extremely low. Nevertheless, landowners and tree managers have a legal duty to take reasonable care to prevent foreseeable harm or damage from their trees.
Tree condition surveys
A tree survey will provide an assessment of tree condition and risk of failure. Where appropriate it will specify recommendations to minimise risk of harm to people or damage to property. Long term management recommendations can also be provided to enhance the condition, longevity and value of your trees.
A tree condition survey may range from a single tree in a back garden to large tree populations in multiple locations.
We will provide a survey method that is most appropriate and cost effective in relation to location, the number of trees, potential risk and amenity value. Typical surveys include:
- Detailed visual assessment and recording of individual trees
- Walkover inspections to assess and record general condition of trees and obvious defects
- Walkover ‘negative recording’ – useful for large areas and tree populations such as estates and woodlands. Only trees with significant structural defects and unacceptable risk of harm are recorded
- Aerial climbing inspections
Where appropriate we use the Quantified Tree Risk Assessment (QTRA) system and have been a registered user since 2007.
Tree risk management strategies for landowners
We are experienced in assisting owners of large tree populations in the development of a site wide management strategy to promote the long term health, safety and diversity of their trees.
Working closely with the landowner we will craft a bespoke policy document that will provide a reasonable, proportionate and defendable strategy to reduce the risk from trees whilst minimising the need for unnecessary and costly intervention.
