DETAILED TREE INSPECTIONS FOR PEACE OF MIND
Worried about tree condition or risk?
Concerned bout the risk they present to you, your family, or visitors to the land you manage? Our Individual Tree Inspection, Tree Condition Surveys and Tree Risk Assessments are there to provide peace of mind.
We provide Detailed Tree Inspections, Tree Condition Surveys, and Tree Risk Assessments tailored to your needs, and offer guidance and recommendations for the management of your trees.
We possess 15+ years of Arboricultural knowledge, experience and understanding working with a diverse range of clients and sectors across Nottingham, Derbyshire, East and West Midlands, London, and the UK.
We are not stuffy consultants; we are personable and authentic. Our expertise in all things arboriculture and digital positions us as an innovative and versatile consultancy.
DETAILED TREE INSPECTIONS FOR PEACE OF MIND
Tree Inspections and Risk Surveys.
We routinely conduct VALID Tree Risk-Benefit Assessments across Derbyshire, Nottingham, and the UK. Think of us as your partners in safeguarding and enhancing your green assets. VALID provides ISO 31000 Risk Management Standards, the Tolerability of Risk Framework (ToR) and common sense Tree Risk-Benefit Management Strategies.
Have you got a particular tree that you are concerned about or require advice on how to best care for it? We have extensive expertise conducting detailed visual assessments of individual trees. Our tree condition assessments concentrate on the health and condition of trees, giving recommendations for remedial or proactive tree management based on the physiological and structural condition of the trees.
Over the last 15 years, we've helped manage over 30,000 trees across Nottinghamshire and the UK, giving our clients peace of mind. We have extensive expertise aiding owners of large tree populations with tree condition and risk surveys and assessments, as well as developing site-wide management strategies and bespoke policies that support their trees' long-term health, risk management, and biodiversity.
One of the most essential requirements for assessing tree risk is to assess the likelihood of structural tree failure. In some instances, risk features (or "defects") are located in the crown or higher stem region, beyond the scope of a ground level assessment. We have an in-house team of professional City & Guilds NPTC certified climbers and Drone Pilots who can do aerial tree assessments and inspections.
RELIABLE, PRECISE, TRULY INNOVATIVE
What our clients say.
After 15 years of pioneering arboricultural consultancy, Arb Innovators is not just another name in the industry.
Our Professional Tree Inspectors have carried out tree risk assessments and tree inspections for homeowners, local authorities, and estate managers concerned about tree health, to schools and universities looking to manage tree risk.
From single tree assessments to comprehensive tree population inventories, we're here to help.
Tree Risk Management made simple.
Trees are a fundamental component of our landscape and natural environment. At Arb Innovators we provide cost effective management proposals using the latest technology, giving you clear, concise work schedules and plans.
Our Tree Inspections and tree condition reports often incorporate 3D models captured using photogrammetry techniques to vividly illustrate tree defects. This cutting-edge approach immerses you in your tree's well-being, making it easier to understand and act upon the data we provide.
Working with our trusted partners, we can also use cutting-edge technologies like the IML-RESI PD Resistograph and PiCUS Sonic Tomograph to enable us to delve deeper, uncovering hidden issues, and mapping decay more accurately.
VALID Tree Risk-Benefit Assessment.
We routinely conduct VALID Tree Risk-Benefit Assessments across Derbyshire, Nottingham, and the UK. Think of us as your partners in safeguarding and enhancing your green assets.
Our arboricultural consultants are recognised as certified VALIDators. The VALID method offers peace of mind while maximising tree benefits and our use of the VALID tree risk-benefit approach sets us apart.​
What is VALID Tree Risk?
VALID tree risk-benefit provides ISO 31000 Risk Management Standards, the Tolerability of Risk Framework (ToR) and common sense Tree Risk-Benefit Management Strategies. Trained Validators can assist you in tailoring your strategy.
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The VALID system is committed to providing a simple method of identifying potential tree risk features through the use of an easy-to-use Tree Risk App.
During our survey, we enter data into the app including the Likelihood of Occupancy, Consequences of Failure, and Likelihood of Failure categories. The VALID app’s algorithm then generates a risk rating or score.
VALID Active Assessment
One of the major differences with a VALID Tree Risk-Benefit assessment is that the the frequency of surveys is a 5 yearly Active Assessment for trees in Zones of High Confluence (large trees in regularly occupied areas).
Why? Because this is reasonable, proportionate, and reasonably practicable. It's what many Duty Holders are adopting.
However, this is a Duty Holders decision. If they have a lower 'risk appetite' or tolerance to risk, a shorter frequency of Active Assessment can be applied. This is the same for trees where the risk may be tolerable. As mitigation, a reduced inspection frequency may be applied.
What risk do trees pose?
The risk of harm from trees is remarkably low. However tree failures do still occur, and tree owners have a duty of care in law to manage the risk posed by their trees in a balanced and proportionate manner. In defending themselves following an incident caused by their trees, tree owners should be able to demonstrate that they have fulfilled their duty of care. The best way to do this is to have documented and implemented plans for the management of tree risks. This is where the VALID Tree Risk Strategy helps.
Individual Tree Inspections.
Typically confined to individual trees, this focussed level of Visual Tree Assessment VTA) involves one of our experienced and competent arboriculturists visually assessing the entire tree from crown to ground, to identify any features may present a risk, be attributed to ill-health and decline, or the presence of a structural defect which may require further assessment using advanced, decay-detection equipment.
What is Visual Tree Assessment (VTA)?
Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) is a non-invasive method of examining and assessing the health and structural conditions of individual trees, as written by Mattheck & Breloer.
What happens during a Detailed Tree Inspection?
We start by collecting the necessary tree dimensions to aid our interpretation of our findings or recommendations for tree management. At this level of VTA, we may record information using basic decay-detection tools such as sounding mallet and probes.
The results, comments and recommendations of our tree inspection are provided in a comprehensive inventory, formatted as a Schedule of Trees and will include trees' common name, scientific name, age, tree condition, and prioritised risk reduction recommendations aimed at reducing the risk to an acceptable level. All of this will be presented in a short, technical report, accompanied by an accurate Tree Location Plan.
Our Tree Inspections and tree condition reports often incorporate 3D models captured using photogrammetry techniques to vividly illustrate tree defects. This cutting-edge approach immerses you in your tree's well-being, making it easier to understand and act upon the data we provide.
Individual vs Full Inventory Tree Survey.
Tree Inspections, Condition Surveys or Tree Risk Surveys are often broadly defined in two ways - as full, Inventory Surveys of a population of trees, or Individual Tree Inspections. But, what's the difference?
A Full Inventory records every tree regardless of its condition and is typically used by local authorities or large landowners where trees are viewed more as assets so having detailed, comprehensive data and information on each tree, is vital. On the flip side, a focused, individual Tree Inspection is typically carried out on trees exhibiting symptoms associated with reduced vitality, or possessing a structural defect needing remedial attention, leaving out those in good condition.
Most clients opt for the focused approach—economical yet legally sound. For those requiring a detailed record, the Full Tree Inventory provides an exhaustive tree-by-tree account. We tailor our approach and guide you on the best method for your needs, ensuring your tree data aligns seamlessly with your objectives.
Are Tree Inspections important?
Did you know that you have a legal duty to manage the risk of your trees falling or shedding branches? Whether you are a government agency, a private landowner, school, or a homeowner, it's not just a choice but a legal 'duty' and to achieve your obligation, you must be reasonable, proportionate, and practical in reducing the risk to an Acceptable or Tolerable level - this is where VALID can help.
What the law states.
The Occupiers Liability Act 1954 and 1984 mandates managing tree risk and foreseeable damage. We'd emphasis the need for a "competent" person (a professional tree inspector, arborist or consultant) to conduct regular tree surveys. For commercial premises, there are also further obligations under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
Regular tree surveys are not just a precaution; they're a necessity. Let us guide you through the legal landscape, ensuring your trees remain a source of pride, not problems.
Any assessment of risk from trees falling should begin with a Tree Risk-Benefit Management Strategy.
Whether you're a Duty Holder or a Risk Assessor, a strategy establishes the context (ISO 31000) of the risk in which you're working. It sets out your your 'risk objectives', and defines the rules of the game. It explains what a Risk Assessor is doing when they examine a tree, why they are doing it, and what their limitations are. Perhaps more crucially, your insurers will be willing to underwrite you.
Aerial tree climbing and drone Inspections.
Occasionally, during a ground-based Tree Inspection and Visual Tree Assessment, tree risk features or defects are visible, but their significance cannot be assessed precisely.
In those circumstances, we may advise that an Aerial Tree Inspection be conducted. This may involve climbing the tree in question, or using our drones to reach the crown and capture valuable information for analysis in the field or back in the office.
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Our aerial tree assessments include:
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Detailed inspection of the structural integrity of the risk feature identify, and the tree as a whole.
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Internal decay detection assessments, using specialist equipment, for parts of the tree inaccessible during a ground level inspection.
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Assessments of features and habitat provided by individual veteran trees – forming part of a specialist Veteran Tree Survey.
We can provide:
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Maps of tree positions with legends for easy identification of tree characteristics.
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Trees plotted onto GIS using GPS, aerial imagery and orthomosaic photographs captured by our drone.
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3D models or 3D Gaussians and high-resolution photographic evidence of assessed defects.
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Analyses and reports on findings.
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Easy to read schedules of survey data including risk ratings in accordance with the type of methodology or tree risk strategy adopted..
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Prescription of targeted tree works specifications for long-term management.
WE ARE DEDICATED TO HELPING YOU UNDERSTAND TREE RISK AND TREE INSPECTIONS
Tree Survey Questions? We've got you.
We're sure you've got a lot of questions and we're more than happy to answer them. When it comes to arboriculture and understanding trees, tree surveying and the various tree surveys and reports available, we're happy to provide the answers. After all, knowledge is power.
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What is the difference between an Arboricultural Consultant and a Tree Consultant?Absolutely nothing! These are two interchangeable terms for the same professional vocation.
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Where do you provide Tree Surveys?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.
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How experienced are you at providing Tree Surveys?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.
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Is a tree survey a legal requirement?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.
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How much does a tree survey cost?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.
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What is a Tree Risk Assessment?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.
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Why is Tree Surveying important?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 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.
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What Tree Surveying techniques are there?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 (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.
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How do I know if trees on my property are protected?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.
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Why might a climbed tree survey be necessary?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.
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What is a BS5837 Tree Survey?BS5837:2012 is a British Standard for Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction - Recommendations. BS5837:2012 provides guidance for managing trees on development sites. The standard sets out a framework for assessing the impact of a development on trees within and adjacent to the site, and for specifying appropriate measures to protect and retain trees wherever possible. The aim of BS5837:2012 is to ensure that the arboricultural, ecological, amenity and landscape value of trees is taken into account during the planning and construction of new developments. At Arb Innovators we provide expert advice on BS5837:2012 compliance, including tree surveys, impact assessments, method statements, and mitigation strategies.
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What steps are involved in BS5837 Tree Surveys and Assessments?BS5837 Tree Surveys and Assessments are a crucial element of any construction or development project that involves trees or wooded areas. Here are some of the key components that are included in our surveys: 1. BS5837 Tree Survey: Our tree surveyors will capture a digital inventory of all the trees on or within influencing distance of a Site, including their accurate location using a GPS system or by measuring their distance from fixed points, tree species, measured tree height, stem diameter, and crown spread. 2. Tree Category Assessment: Whilst on Site, we will assess each tree and assign it a BS5837 Quality Category based on its value and importance. This will help to guide decisions on which trees can be removed or pruned and which ones must be retained. 3. Tree Constraints Plan: Following the survey, a tree constraints plan (TCP) is created to identify the limitations and constraints that the trees impose on the development. The plan includes information about the root protection areas (RPA), crown spread, and any other factors that may affect the trees. 4. Arboricultural Impact Assessment: An arboricultural impact assessment is conducted to evaluate the impact of the development on the trees. A Tree Retention and Removals Plan is produced to accompany the assessment, visually representing the impacts. We will evaluate the impact of the proposed development on the trees on the Site and provide recommendations for minimising damage or harm. 5. Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) and Tree Protection Plan: Based on our assessments, we will develop a formal AMS which sets out the working methodology to ensure trees are appropriately protected during construction phases. The AMS will detail measures such as tree protective fencing, signage, and arboricultural supervision to prevent damage to the trees. At Arb Innovators, we are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality tree surveys and assessments, and we work closely with our clients to ensure that their projects are completed in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner.
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What should I expect in a BS5837 Tree Survey Report?A BS5837 Tree Survey Report is a comprehensive document that provides a detailed analysis of the trees on a site and their relationship to the proposed development. This report is essential for developers, architects, and planners who are looking to obtain planning permission for a new development or construction project. In brief, the Arboricultural Impact Assessment or BS5837 Report typically includes the following information: A detailed description of the trees on the site, including their species, age, size, and health. An assessment of the condition of the trees and any potential risks they may pose to the development. BS5837 Quality or Retention Categories (defined as four categories A, B, C and U). The higher the quality the tree, the more of a constraint it presents to development. A measurement of the trees' perceived rooting area referred to as the root protection area (RPA) - a minimum rooting environment (area) that a tree needs to sustain itself. A calculation of the number of trees on the site and their overall value to the ecosystem. Recommendations for tree removal and retention along with the protection and preservation of the trees during the construction process, including measures to avoid damage to the RPAs.
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How much does a BS5837 Tree Survey cost?The cost of a BS5837 tree survey can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the size of the site, the number of trees present, and the complexity of the survey. Typically, for a small Site, the cost will be between £320 - 700. At ARB Innovators, we offer competitive pricing for our tree survey services. We recommend contacting us for a free quote, so we can provide you with an accurate estimate based on your specific needs.
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Why is compliance with BS5837 essential?Compliance with BS5837 or BS5837:2012 is essential for those who are planning to undertake any kind of development project that involves trees. This British Standard provides guidance on the management of trees in relation to construction and development. It aims to ensure that trees are retained and properly protected during the development process, and that new trees are planted where necessary to compensate for any loss of existing trees. Compliance with BS5837 will not only help to protect the health and safety of the trees, but also ensure that the development is compliant with your local planning authorities (LPA) validation requirements, and ultimately, may be the difference between planning permission being granted or refused. Therefore, it is important to consult with an experienced arboricultural consultant like ARB Innovators who can provide expert advice and guidance on complying with this British Standard 5837.
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Is a BS5837 Tree Survey a legal requirementA BS5837 Tree Survey is not a legal requirement, but it is often necessary when seeking planning permission for development projects that may impact trees, to meet local planning validation requirements. Even though it is not required by law, obtaining a BS5837 Tree Survey can streamline the planning process and ensure compliance with local regulations, ultimately saving time and potentially costly mistakes during development. Arb Innovators specialises in providing comprehensive BS5837 Tree Surveys that assess the impact of development on trees and offer recommendations for their protection.
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What are the age categories for BS5837?When embarking on a development project, recognizing the age and value of the trees on your site is pivotal. The BS5837 Tree Survey categorises trees based on their age, among other factors, to ensure informed decisions are made regarding their retention or removal. Here's a breakdown of the age categories you'll encounter in a BS5837 Tree Survey: Young Trees: Typically under 10 years old, these trees are in the early stages of growth. They represent future potential and are often considered for retention to mature and enhance the site's ecological value. Semi-Mature Trees: Usually aged between 10 and 40 years, semi-mature trees have established themselves but have not yet reached their full size or ecological contribution. They are evaluated for their growth potential and impact on the development. Mature Trees: These trees, often aged 40 to 80 years, have reached their full size and provide significant ecological, aesthetic, and environmental benefits. Mature trees are highly valued in BS5837 surveys for their established presence and contribution to biodiversity. Veteran Trees: Trees of ecological, historical, cultural and landscape value. They are often prioritised for retention due to their irreplaceable nature and the unique habitats they provide. At ARB Innovators, we don't just assess the age of trees; we delve into their health, structural condition, and the role they play in your project's ecosystem. Our innovative approach, combining technology with arboricultural expertise, ensures that every tree is given the consideration it deserves, aligning your development with sustainable and environmentally conscious practices.