Topographical Surveys: Precise Land Mapping for Planning & Development

Absolutely nothing! These are two interchangeable terms for the same professional vocation.

We undertake different types of tree survey, inspection and arboricultural assessments across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, the East and West Midlands and throughout the UK. Our team of experienced and qualified arboricultural consultants and trusted arboricultural partners have extensive knowledge and skills to provide high-quality tree surveys for a variety of purposes, including planning applications, tree risk assessments, tree health and condition assessments, and advice on tree preservation orders.

Our tree surveyors and arboricultural consultants have worked in Consultancy for over 10 years. In that time, we have completed hundreds of tree surveys and assessments. We are highly trained and experienced in providing accurate, reliable and innovative tree surveys for a wide range of clients, including private homeowners, developers, architects, schools, universities and local authorities. We use the latest technology and equipment to ensure that our surveys are comprehensive and detailed, and we always adhere to the highest industry standards and guidelines. You can trust us to deliver a professional and efficient service that meets your specific needs and requirements.

Yes, in many cases, tree surveys are a legal requirement for tree owners. It is considered the tree-owner's legal 'duty of care' under the Occupiers Liability Act 1957 (OLA 1957) to others to have their trees professionally inspected and the recommended work carried out. The survey provides important information such as the tree species, age, and condition, as well as any hazards or nuisances that may require remedial work. At Arb Innovators, our tree consultants are well-equipped to conduct thorough tree surveys to ensure that tree owners are in compliance with legal requirements and that their trees are properly maintained to ensure the safety of their property and the surrounding area. We are committed to providing expert advice and services to help our clients meet their legal obligations and maintain healthy, safe trees on their properties.

The cost of a tree survey varies and will depend on a number of factors such as the size of the project, the type of tree survey required, and the level of tree survey data that needs to be collected. We charge £40-55 per hour (depending on the grade or level of experience the Innovator assigned to your project has). As an example. A BS5837:2012 tree survey to accompany a full planning application for one of our private, domestic (home extension, renovations, etc) clients typically costs £320 - £760. At ARB Innovators, we offer a range of tree surveys, from basic visual inspections to detailed assessments of large tree populations, or a more in-depth assessment of a tree using advanced technology. Our team of experienced arboricultural consultants will work closely with you to assess your needs and provide a free, no-obligation competitive quote that fits within your budget.

A Tree Risk Assessment is a type of tree assessment carried out by a professional tree surveyor or consultant, to identify tree risk features, condition, and the occupancy around the tree to judge potential risk and prescribe appropriate tree management.  These assessments are also referred to as "tree risk surveys" or "tree condition surveys". The assessment takes into account not just the risk posed by trees on the Site, but also the surrounding context and potential impact on nearby highways, structures and people.

Tree surveying is important for several reasons and largely depends on the importance, or benefits of surveying trees, greatly depends on the type of tree survey and the outcomes you are seeking. Firstly, it helps to identify the species, size, and health of trees at your property or on a Site earmarked or Development. For a BS5837 Tree Survey (https://knowledge.bsigroup.com/products/trees-in-relation-to-design-demolition-and-construction-recommendations/standard)This information is crucial for planning and development purposes, as it can help determine whether or not trees need to be protected or removed. Secondly, tree surveying can identify any potential risks and risk features that trees may pose, such as dead branches overhanging a carriageway or trees that present an increased risk of falling onto a pedestrianised area due to the presence of a structural impairment. Regular tree surveying across a tree population is important for ensuring the safety of people and property on the Site. Finally, tree surveying can help to identify any important ecological or environmental features that may be associated with the trees on a Site. This can help to ensure that these features are protected and preserved. Overall, tree surveying is an important tool for arboricultural consultants, homeowners, developers, and large landowners to ensure the responsible management and protection of trees and their associated environmental benefits.

At ARB Innovators, we offer a range of tree surveying techniques to suit your needs. These include: BS5837:2012: This is a British Standard that provides guidelines for assessing the impact of development on tree on or abutting your Property or a Site. The BS5837 tree survey involves one of our arboriculturist assessing the structural and physiological condition of trees and assigning a BS837 quality categorisation (denoted as category A, B, C or U) and remaining useful life expectancy. The written Arboricultural Impact Assessment involves an assessment of impacts from the proposed development and providing recommendations for tree retention and protection. The latest version of BS5837 was published in 2012. Tree Risk Assessment: This technique involves assessing the risk of trees falling or causing damage in high-risk areas such as public spaces, highways or near buildings. Typically, our initial level of survey using the principles of Visual Tree Assessment (https://www.iml-service.com/vta-visual-tree-assessment/)(VTA). This technique involves inspecting trees visually to identify any signs of decay, disease or structural issues. Detailed Decay-Detection: This technique involves using specialist equipment to investigate the internal structure of trees and identify any signs of decay or disease. Our team of experienced consultants will work with you to determine which technique is most suitable for your needs and provide you with a detailed report outlining our findings and recommendations. Aerial or Climbed Tree Survey: If a tree surveyor suspects that defects may be present in the upper crown of a tree but cannot determine their extent during a ground level tree survey, they may recommend a climbed tree condition survey.

Trees can be safeguarded under various designations, including Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs), Conservation Areas, or being part of a wider environmental or heritage protection scheme. Consult Local Authority Records: Your first port of call should be your local council's planning department. They maintain up-to-date records of all TPOs and Conservation Areas within their jurisdiction. Most councils offer an online search tool, but don't hesitate to contact them directly for the most comprehensive advice. Look for Official Documentation: If you've recently purchased your property, your solicitor may have provided details of any TPOs or Conservation Area restrictions as part of your conveyancing documents. These records can offer a clear indication of any protections in place. Engage with ARB Innovators: Our team at ARB Innovators have a deep understanding of local and national environmental regulations. We can conduct a thorough assessment, identifying any protected trees on your property and advising on the next steps. Understanding the protective status of your trees not only ensures legal compliance but also helps preserve amenity and ecological value for future generations.

Occasionally, defects in a tree may be apparent but their extent cannot be determined during a ground level tree survey. In such cases, the tree surveyor may recommend that a climbed, or aerial, tree condition survey be undertaken. Climbing the tree allows the surveyor to get a closer look at the tree's upper crown and assess its condition more accurately. At ARB Innovators (innovation being in our name) we also use drones to survey the upper crown of trees, which provides a non-invasive, safer and more efficient alternative to tree climbing.