Tree inspections, commonly known as arboricultural surveys, are key to detecting and resolving potential hazards and nuisance arising from a tree or group of trees.

Our inspections are aimed primarily at tree-owners who want to know if their trees may pose a threat to persons or property.

If you require a tree survey for a development please see BS5837 (pre-development) surveys and example reports.


What is an arboricultural survey?

An arboricultural survey is very important to record trees that may be at risk of causing harm or damage, in both residential and commercial circumstances.

It is the tree-owner’s legal ‘duty of care’ to others to have their trees professionally inspected and the recommended work carried out.

The survey provides information such as:

  • Tree species, age and condition
  • Hazards or nuisances that may require remedial work
  • Prioritised work recommendations

Our tree inspections and surveys will include assessment of potential structural defects, physiological problems and pathogens, as well as any current or future nuisances. All information is fully referenced and tabulated so that it is easy to follow.

The recommended tree surgery or other works will ensure that you can maintain your duty of care as well as help to extend the tree’s life (for example, an exposed limb that is shortened may be less likely to break in high wind or snow, and so the tree may not suffer a massive wound).

For commercial purposes, an arboricultural survey can inform the tree manager in decision-making and budget allocation.


How often should trees be inspected?

The UK Government recommends a minimum of 5 years between professional tree inspections. However, if you notice an obvious issue with your tree, you should contact an arboricultural consultant as soon as possible.

If you or someone else spots any obvious defects or changes to your tree’s health or structure, an arboriculturist should be called to properly assess the tree. Major weather events can cause even healthy and structurally sound trees to become defective. For more information on managing your trees, please see the free guides published by the National Tree Safety Group.

It is advisable to check your trees after any major weather event, as wind and rain can cause trees to become dangerous. Residential tree inspections and surveys are often carried out upon the request of mortgage lenders and insurance companies.

Our tree surveys include recommended re-inspection times, usually ranging from 6 months to 5 years.


Always ask an expert

It is vital to employ a properly trained and experienced arborist to inspect your trees, as a tree surgeon may not be fully competent to assess the complexities of biomechanics, physiology, soil, exposure and biotic & abiotic stresses.

The knowledge and experience of a qualified arborist ensures an understanding of the visual symptoms of incipient tree failure, based on the context of the tree, and will allow appropriate management recommendations to be made.

Mike Charkow (Proprietor and Senior Arborist) has over 16 years of professional arboricultural experience and holds the LANTRA Professional Tree Inspector Certificate as well as the Level 4 Award in Arboriculture. Mike and the team boast an excellent knowledge of potential tree hazards and how to remedy them.



Please contact Arbor Vitae Arboriculture for further information.