Safety & Condition Surveys
Safety & Condition Surveys
Safety & Condition surveys are carried out from ground-level using the Visual Tree Assessment technique. We adhere to the principles set out in Hazards from trees: a general guide (Lonsdale, 2000), HSE SIM 01/2007/05 (HSE, 2007, amended 2013) and Common-Sense Risk Management of Trees (National Tree Safety Group, 2011). Risk assessments are conducted using the THREATS hazard evaluation system to produce a colour-coded, prioritised list of recommendations. All reports include statutory tree protection advice and suggestions for improved climate resilience and biodiversity as standard.
Risk-based zoning
For clients with larger estates or multiple properties, desk-based studies using remote-sensing data and aerial photography can be used to prioritise areas for inspection. The importance of risk-based inspection regimes was recently emphasised in the Cavanagh vs Whitely court case.
Visual Assessments
A visual assessment considers features of biomechanics, pests, diseases, environment and health, together with some basic investigations using a sounding mallet, decay probe and pocket-knife.
Many significant pests and diseases are instantly recognisable to the trained eye such as Ash Dieback Disease, Oak Processionary Moth, Massaria Disease of Plane, Horse Chestnut Bleeding Canker, and many forms of fungal infection.
Data is captured electronically in the field, giving an instant risk assessment through the THREATS hazard response system. Data is then compiled into a report supplied to you by electronic means (paper copies can be provided if needed) and accompanied by an analysis of relevant tree protection regulations, a summary of recommended actions and a statement of ecological impact, and suggestions to improve biodiversity and climate resilience, where appropriate.
Detailed Tree Inspection
High value trees or those of particular cultural, historical or amenity importance may require more detailed investigation to assist with the formulation of management recommendations. We use several techniques to provide additional data: in-depth visual assessment with hand-tools, sonic tomography, resistography, laboratory investigations and aerial inspection from rope-and-harness. We expect to further extend our capabilities with high resolution video capture by drone during 2019.
Let's Talk Today
We would love to hear from you, please get in touch if we can help or you would like to hear more about our services.
What our Clients say
It's extremely important to us that our Clients are 100% satisfied with all work that we carry out, here is just some of the feedback that we have collated from our client portfolio...
“Your report is excellent and appears very clear to me. Thank you so much for doing such a professional job and for doing such an impressive report and so quickly… Your diagnosis was spot on. There was extensive decay in the region you had identified. In the words of the guys who felled it "...it was definitely the right call"! Thanks again for doing such a professional job. Two of my neighbours want to commission you to assess their trees and I’ll be passing on your details.”