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Information & Resources

Whether you’re looking for answers to common questions, definitions of arboricultural terms, or trusted external resources, this page has you covered. Explore our Frequently Asked Questions, glossary, and useful links to stay informed and make confident, sustainable tree management decisions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Find clear answers to the most common questions about tree inspections, planning reports, pest and disease management, and tree safety advice. Whether you’re a homeowner, developer, or estate manager, find clear, expert information to help you choose the right service for your needs. Whether you’re new to arboriculture or managing a complex site, our FAQs explain what to expect and how we can help.

Why Choose Conheeney-Group Arboricultural Consultancy?

At Conheeney-Group Arboricultural Consultancy, we are industry specialists—fully insured, highly qualified, and committed to the highest professional standards. As members of leading UK and international arboricultural bodies, we ensure expert service. We offer free quotes and consultations, a satisfaction guarantee, and will strive to beat any genuine like-for-like quote.

What Type of Tree Survey Do I Need?

Tree surveys vary in detail and purpose, typically falling into three levels that align with the Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) methodology:

Level 1 – Walkthrough Survey
A broad assessment designed for managing large numbers of trees as assets. This involves a visual inspection to record key data for effective tree management. Ideal for local authorities, government bodies, housing associations, trusts, estates, and private landowners.

Level 2 – Tree Condition Inspection
A detailed 360-degree visual assessment of one or more trees and their rooting environment. This survey identifies potential health or structural concerns and is often conducted following a Level 1 survey. Suitable for landowners, property managers, developers, and anyone with a legal duty of care.

Level 3 – Tree Diagnostic Investigation
A specialist survey using advanced diagnostic tools to assess specific issues, such as internal decay or structural integrity. Ideal for situations requiring in-depth analysis of tree health and safety.
Tree surveys and inspections are essential for tree asset management, risk assessment, health evaluation, insurance compliance, mortgage approval, legal disputes, tree valuations, and more.

Need help selecting the right survey? Contact us for expert advice and a free consultation.

What Is a BS 5837:2012 Arboricultural Report

A BS 5837:2012 Arboricultural Report assesses trees on or near a development site and provides a structured, compliant approach to tree retention and management. This survey identifies trees that may be impacted by construction and outlines best practices to balance development with tree preservation.

If you’re planning a project, a BS 5837 report is essential for gaining planning approval and ensuring compliance with tree protection regulations. Contact us today for expert guidance and a free quote.

Who Do We Work With?

Conheeney-Group Arboricultural Consultancy provides expert tree surveys for a wide range of clients, including private homeowners, schools, colleges, non-profit organisations, housing associations, government bodies, and trusts.

We are committed to expanding our services and welcome inquiries from domestic, commercial, and governmental clients. Get in touch today for a free consultation.

When is a tree risk assessment required?

A tree risk assessment is needed when assessing potential hazards, ensuring public safety, or meeting legal and insurance requirements. It’s essential for landowners, developers, and local authorities to manage tree assets.

How can I tell if a tree is dangerous or diseased?

Signs include dead branches, fungal growth, cracks, leaning, root damage, or sparse foliage. A professional tree inspection (PTI) can accurately assess its health and structural integrity.

Do I need permission to remove or prune a tree?

Some trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or are in Conservation Areas, requiring local authority approval. We can help navigate regulations and obtain necessary permissions.

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Tree Terms Explained

Arboricultural Glossary

Not sure what a BS5837 survey involves or what basal decay means? Our glossary provides clear, straightforward definitions for the technical arboricultural terms you’ll come across in reports, surveys, and consultations.

A

Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) – A report that evaluates the impact of development or construction on trees, providing strategies for tree protection and integration within the project.
Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) – A detailed plan outlining how tree protection will be managed during construction or development work, ensuring minimal harm to trees.
Arboriculture – The science, study and management of trees, shrubs, and other woody plants in urban and rural environments.
Ancient Tree – A tree that has passed beyond maturity into an ancient life stage, or is old in comparison with other trees of the same species. Ancient trees are typically very old and have significant ecological, historical, and cultural value. The age at which trees reach “ancient” status varies by species, with long-lived species like oaks reaching this stage much later than shorter-lived species like birches.

C

Canopy – The upper part of the tree, made up of branches and leaves that provide shade and contribute to photosynthesis.
CAVAT (Capital Asset Valuation for Amenity Trees) – A system for valuing trees based on their amenity and environmental benefits, used to assess the financial value of trees in urban areas.
Cavities – Hollow spaces within a tree caused by decay or injury, which may weaken the tree’s structure and pose safety risks.

D

Decay Detection – The process of identifying internal tree decay or damage, typically using tools like Resistographs (resistance drills) or endoscopes to detect weaknesses not visible from the outside.
Developer Tree Surveys – A detailed inspection and assessment of the condition, health, and structure of trees for property management, safety, or development purposes.

M

Mortgage/Insurance Reports – Tree condition evaluations that assess potential risks to buildings, foundations, and utilities to help homeowners, insurers, and lenders meet mortgage approval and insurance compliance requirements.

O

Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957 – UK legislation that places a legal duty of care on those who occupy land or premises (including landowners and managers) to ensure that visitors are reasonably safe while using the property. This includes managing potential hazards from trees and other natural features on the site.

P

Pollarding – A tree pruning technique where the upper branches are cut back to encourage new growth, often used for managing trees in urban areas.
Pruning – The selective removal of tree branches to improve its structure, remove damaged or diseased parts, or maintain its shape.

Q

QTRA (Quantified Tree Risk Assessment) – A method for evaluating the risk of harm from a tree based on its size, condition, and location, used to provide a quantified risk score.

R

Root Zone – The area around the base of the tree where its roots are located, crucial for the tree’s stability and nutrient absorption.
Root Protection Area (RPA) – A defined zone around a tree’s roots that should be kept free from construction or disruption to prevent harm to the tree.

S

Subsidence – The downward movement of land or structures due to factors such as soil hydrology, potentially caused by tree roots growing near foundations or changes to water infiltration, possibly causing damage to buildings.

T

Tree Canopy Cover – The area of land covered by the upper branches of trees, often used in urban planning to assess greenery in a given space.
Tree Preservation Order (TPO) – A legal order made by a local planning authority to protect specific trees, groups of trees, or woodlands from deliberate felling, lopping, topping, or uprooting without prior consent.
Tree Protection Plan (TPP) – A plan that shows the location of trees and the boundaries of their protection zones during construction to ensure their safety and health.
Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) – The area around a tree that must be preserved to prevent damage to its roots and overall health during construction or development.
Tree Risk Assessment (TRA) – The process of evaluating potential hazards a tree may pose to people or property, often based on its condition and environment.
Tree Survey – A detailed inspection and assessment of the condition, health, and structure of trees, usually for property management, safety, or development purposes.

V

Veteran Tree – A mature tree that has developed valuable decaying wood features, often due to its life experiences or environmental factors, not necessarily age. Veteran trees may not be very old but share characteristics like trunk or branch hollowing or other decaying wood, similar to ancient trees. They are significant due to their role in biodiversity, ecology, and history.
Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) – A systematic method of assessing the external signs and symptoms of trees to identify potential structural weaknesses, defects, or signs of decay. Developed by Claus Mattheck, VTA relies on visual inspection techniques combined with knowledge of tree biology and mechanical principles.

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Useful Links

Explore our recommended external resources for reliable, up-to-date information on tree management, pest and disease control, legislation, and arboricultural best practice. These trusted links are perfect for anyone looking to learn more or stay current within the industry.