Tree Surveys in Middlesbrough: Managing Your Trees

Trees are an integral part of Middlesbrough’s urban and rural landscapes. Whether you’re a homeowner, property developer, or land manager, understanding the health, condition, and value of your trees is crucial. This is where tree surveys come into play.

A comprehensive tree survey provides you with the information you need to make informed decisions about tree management, ensuring both the safety and sustainability of your property.

Why Tree Surveys Are Essential

Tree surveys are not just about counting trees; they offer a detailed assessment of the trees on your property, evaluating their health, stability, and potential risks. These surveys are essential for a variety of reasons:

• Safety: Trees can become hazardous if they are diseased, dying, or structurally unsound. A tree survey helps identify these risks before they lead to accidents or damage.
• Planning and Development: If you’re planning a construction project, a tree survey is often required by local authorities to assess the impact on existing trees and to develop a tree protection plan.
• Tree Preservation: Some trees are protected under preservation orders. A tree survey will identify any protected trees on your property and ensure you comply with legal requirements.
• Insurance Purposes: A tree survey can be a valuable document for insurance purposes, providing evidence of the condition of your trees and any necessary maintenance.

A few years ago, we were called to a property in Marton where a large tree had fallen unexpectedly, causing significant damage to a boundary wall. The property owner was unaware that the tree had been in decline for years, with root rot weakening its stability. A prior tree survey could have identified the issue early on, preventing the damage and the associated costs.

What Does a Tree Survey Involve?

A tree survey is a detailed process that involves assessing various aspects of each tree on your property. Here’s what you can expect during a tree survey:

Tree Identification

The first step in a tree survey is to identify each tree species on the property. This includes recording the species, age, and size of each tree. Understanding the species helps determine the tree’s expected lifespan, growth rate, and any specific care requirements.

Health and Condition Assessment

The health of each tree is thoroughly assessed during the survey. This involves examining the tree’s trunk, branches, leaves, and roots for signs of disease, decay, pests, or structural defects. The survey will also assess the tree’s stability and any potential hazards, such as dead or overhanging branches.

Risk Assessment

A key component of the tree survey is the risk assessment. This identifies any trees that pose a potential risk to people, buildings, or infrastructure. The surveyor will evaluate factors such as proximity to structures, root stability, and any visible signs of weakness or damage.

Recommendations and Maintenance

Based on the findings, the surveyor will provide recommendations for each tree. This might include suggestions for pruning, treatment of diseases, or, in some cases, tree removal. The goal is to ensure the long-term health and safety of your trees while minimising risks.

Types of Tree Surveys

There are several types of tree surveys, each serving a different purpose. Depending on your needs, you might require one or more of the following surveys:

BS5837 Tree Survey

A BS5837 tree survey is specifically designed for planning and development purposes. It assesses the impact of proposed construction on existing trees and provides guidelines for tree protection during the development process. This type of survey is often required by local authorities as part of the planning application process.

Condition Survey

A condition survey focuses on the health and stability of the trees on your property. It’s ideal for homeowners or land managers who want to ensure their trees are in good condition and do not pose a risk. This type of survey is typically conducted annually or after severe weather events.

Hazard Assessment Survey

A hazard assessment survey is specifically designed to identify trees that pose a risk to people or property. This survey is crucial for public spaces, commercial properties, and any area where falling trees or branches could cause harm.

Tree Preservation Order (TPO) Survey

If your property contains trees that are subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), a TPO survey is required. This survey ensures that any work on these trees complies with legal requirements and that the trees are protected from damage or unauthorised removal.

When Should You Conduct a Tree Survey?

Regular tree surveys are recommended to monitor the health and safety of your trees. However, there are specific situations where a tree survey becomes particularly important:

• Before starting a construction project: A tree survey is often required as part of the planning process to assess the impact on existing trees and develop a tree protection plan.
• After severe weather events: High winds, heavy rain, or snow can cause significant damage to trees. A post-storm survey can identify any damage and assess the stability of your trees.
• When purchasing a new property: A tree survey can provide valuable information about the condition of the trees on your new property and any potential risks.
• If you notice signs of decline: If your trees are showing symptoms such as wilting leaves, dead branches, or unusual growths, it’s important to schedule a survey to assess their health.

The Benefits of Professional Tree Surveys

While it’s possible to inspect your trees yourself, a professional tree survey offers a more comprehensive and accurate assessment. At Tree Surgeons Middlesbrough, we have the expertise and experience to conduct thorough tree surveys, providing you with detailed reports and actionable recommendations.

Our team of qualified arborists uses the latest tools and techniques to assess the health, safety, and value of your trees. Whether you need a survey for planning purposes, risk assessment, or routine maintenance, we’re here to help.

What Happens After a Tree Survey?

Once the tree survey is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the findings. This report will include information on the species, condition, and risk level of each tree, along with recommendations for maintenance or removal. Depending on the survey’s findings, we may suggest actions such as:

• Pruning or removing dead branches
• Treating pest infestations or diseases
• Improving soil conditions
• In some cases, removing hazardous trees

Taking prompt action based on the survey’s findings can help ensure the safety and longevity of your trees, protecting both your property and the surrounding environment.

Conclusion: Invest in the Future of Your Trees

Tree surveys are a vital part of responsible tree management. They provide you with the information you need to maintain the health and safety of your trees, ensuring they continue to thrive for years to come. Whether you’re planning a construction project, concerned about tree safety, or simply want to understand the condition of your trees, a professional tree survey is the first step.

At Tree Surgeons Middlesbrough, we’re dedicated to helping you make informed decisions about your trees. Our comprehensive tree surveys are designed to provide you with the knowledge and confidence you need to manage your trees effectively.

Contact us today to schedule a tree survey and take the first step towards a safer, greener future for your property.