How Often Should a Tree Surveys Be Completed?

Everything You Need to Know

You don’t need us to tell you how important it is to keep your outdoor space well-maintained. Whether you are a business owner looking to keep their premises safe and accessible or you’re a homeowner wanting to make your garden as beautiful as possible, taking good care of your trees is vital. That’s where regular tree surveying comes in. Here’s why the tree surveys Essex property owners recommend are essential, what information they provide and how frequently they should be carried out.

What Is a Tree Survey?

A tree survey involves inspecting trees on public or private lands to gather valuable data. This can include:

Species
Age
Number of trees
Location
Crown spread
Root protection areas
Overall condition

These surveys serve multiple purposes, including helping property owners make informed decisions about their tree care, protecting specific tree species (especially those at risk) and ensuring compliance with all of the regulations surrounding tree preservation orders.

Why Conduct Regular Tree Surveys?

Legal Requirements

In many cases, local authorities require tree surveys before granting permission for new developments. The British Standard for trees in relation to design, demolition and construction recommends taking appropriate measures to evaluate existing trees on and around sites where new projects are proposed. By conducting regular tree surveys, you demonstrate your commitment to adhering to these guidelines and minimize potential issues during the planning process.

Health and Safety

Regularly surveying your trees helps identify any signs of disease or decay early on, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing further damage or hazards. It also ensures that trees do not pose risks to people or structures nearby due to falling branches or uprooting. We’re big fans of proactive management here at Essex Tree Brothers, and regular tree surveys are one of our favourite tools.

Planning New Developments

When designing new buildings or landscapes, incorporating existing trees into plans increases the chances of obtaining planning approval and helps to maintain sustainable development practices. Frequent tree surveys allow for better integration of trees within designs and promote more environmentally friendly developments.

How Often Should You Schedule a Tree Survey?

While annual tree surveys may seem like the best option, most experts agree that conducting them every two years strikes the perfect balance between thoroughness and cost-effectiveness. However, there can be exceptions to this rule:

If you notice visible signs of decline or damage between scheduled surveys, consider requesting an additional inspection for peace of mind.
In some instances, local councils may mandate more frequent surveys depending on factors such as tree type, proximity to buildings, or high-risk conditions. Always consult the relevant authorities to determine what is required of you.