If you’ve got trees on your property, a professional tree survey isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity.
Whether you manage a school, care home, office building, or commercial property, understanding the health and safety of your trees protects both your people and your investment.
Here’s the thing many organisations miss: tree surveys are a crucial part of your risk assessment duties. You’re probably checking fire safety, electrical systems, and equipment safety. But trees? They often slip through the cracks. This is a serious gap. Trees present real risks. And your duty of care covers them completely.
We’ve been looking after Midlands properties for over 30 years. Tree surveys are one of the most important jobs we do. Here’s why you need one, what happens during the process, and how it can save you money and trouble down the line.
Trees represent a genuine hazard
The Gap in Most Risk Assessments
Many organisations have thorough risk management systems.
They check buildings regularly. They inspect equipment. They manage health and safety properly. But when we ask about their trees, we often get blank looks.“We haven’t really thought about that,” they say.
This is incredibly common. It’s also incredibly risky.
Trees represent a genuine hazard. A large branch falling on a building costs thousands to repair. A tree toppling across a car park risks injury claims and legal problems. A branch falling near where people gather could cause serious injury.
But here’s the good news: most tree problems are preventable with early detection.
A proper survey catches issues before they become emergencies. You get detailed reports that help you make smart decisions about maintenance. You also get documentation showing you’ve done your due diligence. This protects you legally and satisfies your insurance company.
Your risk assessment isn’t complete without it. Think of it like a health check-up. Regular checks catch problems early when they’re cheaper to fix.
What Exactly Is a Professional Tree Survey?
A tree survey isn’t just someone walking round saying, “Looks fine to me.” It’s a detailed inspection using professional standards and equipment. Our team uses Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) methods. This means we examine every part of the tree systematically.
We check for dead branches that could fall. We look for signs of disease or pest damage. We assess the stability of the trunk and roots. We check for signs of decay inside the wood. We also look at how much weight each branch is carrying.
The inspection covers what’s around the tree, too. We note if large branches hang over buildings, pathways, or parking areas. We check if roots are damaging surfaces like patios or roads. We see if the tree has enough space to stay healthy and strong.
Everything gets recorded. We take photos from different angles. We note measurements and distances. All of this goes into your final report.
The Reports You’ll Get
You’ll receive two types of reports depending on your needs.
The first is a general tree survey report. This covers the condition of all trees on your property. It includes recommendations for maintenance and care. We prioritise tree preservation where possible. If a tree can be saved through good management, we’ll tell you exactly how to do it.
The second is a detailed planning application report. Some councils require these before you can carry out tree work. These reports follow BS 5837 standards. They meet all the strict requirements that councils and planning departments expect. Having the right report means fewer delays when you want to work on your trees.
We also create reports specifically for Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). These legal protections mean you need permission before removing or seriously cutting back a tree. Our reports help you understand what you can and can’t do with a protected tree.
Insurance companies also want these reports. If something goes wrong and they need to know about the tree’s condition beforehand, you’ll have proof you took it seriously.
Tree Surveys and Your Duty of Care
This is the bit that often surprises organisations. If you’re responsible for a property where people spend time, you have a legal duty of care. That means you must manage risks properly. Trees fall under this duty completely.
Your insurance company knows this. Your local authority knows this. Your safety regulator knows this, too.
When something goes wrong—a branch falls and injures someone, or damages property—the first question is always “Did you have a recent survey?” If you can’t show one, you’re in trouble. You’ll struggle to claim insurance. You might face legal action. You could face fines or enforcement action.
When you can produce a professional survey report, you show that you took tree safety seriously. You show you did your homework. You show that you acted responsibly. This matters legally and financially.
It’s not just schools that need this. Offices need it. Care homes need it. Retail parks need it. Industrial estates need it. Any property where the public or employees are present needs it.
Think of it like your fire safety checks or electrical inspections. You wouldn’t skip those. Tree surveys deserve the same attention.
Why Standards Matter
BS 3998 and BS 5837 aren’t random letters. They’re official British Standards for proper tree work.
BS 3998 covers how tree surgery should be done safely. It protects workers and people around them.
BS 5837 is about trees in planning and construction. It’s used for planning applications. A report following this standard satisfies any council.
Our team holds NPTC qualifications. We’ve been trained and tested to the highest level.
The Different Types of Tree Surveys
Not all surveys are the same. The type you need depends on your situation.
A basic health and safety survey covers the general condition of the trees. You’ll get clear advice on risks and timescales.
A detailed condition survey goes deeper. We examine each tree thoroughly. We assess safety and long-term health. We give advice on pruning, treatment, or removal options.
A pre-development survey is for building work. We identify which trees need protecting during construction. We recommend fencing locations and flagging trees for removal.
An emergency assessment handles urgent situations. Storm damage, dangerous lean, sudden changes. We come quickly and tell you what needs doing now.
What Happens When You Book With Us
We’ll arrange a visit that suits your schedule. We examine each tree carefully. We ask questions about your concerns. We photograph everything and make detailed notes.
Back at the office, we create a comprehensive report. Clear language explaining what we found. Practical advice on next steps. Costs for any needed work.
No jargon. Just straight answers.
Why Experience Matters
We’ve worked with schools, care homes, offices, and local authorities, managing hundreds of trees. Each situation is different. But everyone needs proper care and attention.
Our experience means we spot problems others miss. We know what minor issues become major headaches. We understand what your insurer needs. We know what planning authorities will accept.
Getting Your Trees Assessed Today
You don’t need to wait for a problem to happen. Most property managers we work with arrange surveys every few years as part of their risk assessment cycle. Many add annual checks to stay on top of things.
The frequency matters. If you manage property with high footfall—where lots of people gather—annual surveys make sense. They show you’re taking the risk seriously. They keep everything documented and current.
If trees overhang buildings or parking areas, you need regular checks. If you’ve got trees in a conservation area or with Tree Preservation Orders, regular surveys are essential for compliance.
The cost of a survey is tiny compared to dealing with a tree emergency. It’s also tiny compared to the liability risk of not having one. You’ll struggle to explain to your board or insurer why you skipped it.
We’ll give you a clear price before we start. No hidden extras. No surprises. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying and why.
We serve the entire Midlands area. We’re fully insured with £2 million public liability cover. We’re available for emergencies 24/7. We also offer regular maintenance contracts if you want us to keep checking on your trees as part of your ongoing risk management.
Some Final Thoughts
The Bottom Line
Trees are valuable assets. They deserve proper care and attention. A professional tree survey is the first step to managing them properly. It keeps people safe. It keeps your property safe. It protects your investment.
If you’re managing any type of property with trees, don’t guess about their health. Get a professional opinion. Get the facts in writing. Get peace of mind knowing you’ve done the right thing.
That’s what we do. That’s what we’re good at. And that’s why tree surveys matter.
Frequently Asked Questions: Tree Survey Services
Understanding Tree Surveys
Q: Why do I need a tree survey if my trees look fine?
A: Trees that appear healthy can have hidden problems. Decay inside the trunk, unstable root systems, or diseased branches don’t always show obvious signs. A professional survey catches these issues before they become emergencies. Early detection saves money and prevents accidents.
Q: Is a tree survey the same as tree maintenance?
A: No. A tree survey is an assessment and inspection. Maintenance is the work done afterwards. A survey tells you what needs doing. Maintenance is actually doing the work (pruning, treating disease, removing branches). You need a survey first to know what maintenance is required.
Q: How often should we have a tree survey?
A: Most property managers arrange surveys every 2-3 years. Properties with high footfall (schools, care homes, commercial spaces) benefit from annual surveys. Trees in conservation areas or with Tree Preservation Orders should be checked regularly. After severe weather, always get an emergency assessment.
Q: What's the difference between a visual tree assessment and a detailed inspection?
A: A visual tree assessment (VTA) is what we use, a systematic external examination following professional standards. It covers everything you can see from outside the tree. A detailed inspection might include additional tools like resistograph testing (checking internal decay). For most properties, VTA is sufficient. We recommend a detailed inspection if we find concerning signs.
Risk Assessment and Duty of Care
Q: Why is a tree survey part of my risk assessment duties?
A: If you’re responsible for a property where people spend time, you have a legal duty of care. This covers all hazards, including trees. Insurance companies, local authorities, and safety regulators all expect you to assess tree risks. A professional survey documents that you’ve done this properly.
Q: What happens if a tree falls and I don't have a survey?
A: You face serious problems. Insurance companies will ask if you have had a recent professional assessment. Without one, you may struggle to claim. You could face legal action from injured parties. Regulators might investigate. You may face fines or enforcement action. Having a survey protects you legally and financially.
Q: Does my insurance company actually need a tree survey?
A: Many do. This is especially important if you manage commercial property, care homes, or schools. Your insurance policy probably includes a requirement to maintain safe premises. Insurance companies see tree surveys as evidence that you take this seriously. When something goes wrong, they’ll almost certainly ask to see your survey report.
Q: Is a tree survey required by law?
A: There’s no universal legal requirement to have a tree survey. However, your duty of care requires you to manage known risks. Once you know trees are a risk, you must assess them properly. So effectively, yes, you need to do it. Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and Conservation Area trees do have specific legal protections requiring careful management.
Q: Which types of properties actually need tree surveys?
A: Any property where the public or employees are present. This includes: schools, care homes, offices, retail spaces, car parks, industrial estates, hotels, pubs, restaurants, leisure facilities, sports grounds, community centres, and residential estates. If people gather under or near your trees, you need a survey.
The Survey Process
Q: What happens during a tree survey?
A: We arrange a visit at your convenience. Our team examines each tree systematically, looking for dead branches, disease, pest damage, decay, stability issues, and hazards. We check what’s around each tree, overhanging branches, root damage, spacing. We take photographs from different angles, note measurements, and document everything. Back at the office, we compile a comprehensive report with findings and recommendations.
Q: How long does a tree survey take?
A: It depends on how many trees you have and the property size. Small properties might take 1-2 hours. Larger estates or complex situations take longer. We won’t rush. We examine each tree carefully and ask questions about your specific concerns.
Q: What should I do to prepare for a tree survey?
A: Not much. Make sure our team can access all areas where trees grow. Point out any specific concerns you have, trees that worry you, areas where people gather, branches that overhang buildings. Tell us about any previous problems or damage. This background helps us focus our assessment.
Q: Can you survey trees in winter?
A: Yes, absolutely. Winter surveys have advantages. Leaf coverage won’t hide branch defects. We can see the tree structure clearly. Winter is actually an ideal time for surveys. Trees can be assessed any time of year, but we work around the weather; we won’t assess trees during high winds or heavy rain for safety reasons.
Reports and Standards
Q: What will I get in my survey report?
A: A comprehensive written report including: detailed findings about each tree’s condition, photographs, measurements, hazard identification, risk assessment, maintenance recommendations, costs for any needed work, and professional advice. Reports follow British Standards (BS 5837 or BS 3998, depending on type). Language is clear, no confusing jargon.
Q: What are BS 3998 and BS 5837?
A: These are official British Standards. BS 3998 covers how tree work should be carried out safely, protecting workers and people around them. BS 5837 addresses trees in relation to planning and construction; it’s used for planning applications and development projects. Reports following these standards satisfy councils, planning authorities, and insurance companies. Our team is trained to these standards.
Q: Do I need a BS 5837 report?
A: You need one if you’re making a planning application involving trees or if your council requires it for Tree Preservation Orders. If you’re just getting a general health and safety assessment for your property, a standard survey report is fine. We’ll advise which type you need.
Q: Can I use your survey report for planning purposes?
A: Yes, if it’s prepared to BS 5837 standards. These reports specifically meet council and planning authority requirements. When you book, let us know if it’s for a planning application so we can prepare the report to the right standard.
Q: How long is a survey report valid for?
A: Typically, a report is considered current for 2-3 years. After that, conditions may have changed. Insurance companies often ask for reports no older than 2-3 years. If significant time has passed, we recommend an updated survey.
Q: Will you include recommendations for tree removal?
A: Only if it’s genuinely necessary for safety reasons. We prioritise tree preservation. Trees are valuable assets. If a tree can be saved through good management, we’ll recommend that. If removal is truly needed, we’ll explain why and provide clear advice.
Services and Specialists
Q: What different types of surveys do you offer?
A: Four main types. The Health and Safety Survey covers general conditions and immediate risks. Detailed Condition Survey goes deeper into safety and long-term health. Pre-Development Survey is for building work, identifying trees for protection and removal. Emergency Assessment handles urgent situations like storm damage or a dangerous lean.
Q: What qualifications do your surveyors have?
A: All our staff hold NPTC qualifications. NPTC means National Proficiency Tests Council—they’re trained and tested to the highest level. We also follow BS 3998 and BS 5837 standards. Every team member knows these standards inside out. We provide regular refresher training to stay current with modern techniques.
Q: Are you insured for this work?
A: Yes, fully. We carry £2 million public liability cover. This protects you and us if anything goes wrong during the survey.
Q: Can you advise on Tree Preservation Orders?
A: Absolutely. Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) mean you need permission before removing or seriously cutting back a tree. These are legal protections. Our reports help you understand what you can and can’t do with protected trees. We can advise on what work is permitted and help with any applications needed.
Q: Do you offer emergency tree assessments?
A: Yes, 24/7. If a storm brings down branches, a tree is leaning dangerously, or something suddenly looks wrong, we can quickly assess the situation. We have a rapid response team for urgent safety issues across the Midlands.
Practical Concerns
Q: How much does a tree survey cost?
A: Costs vary depending on property size, number of trees, and complexity. We give clear prices before we start, no hidden extras or surprises. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying and why. Contact us for a quote based on your specific situation.
Q: Can you provide a rough quote over the phone?
A: We can give guidance, but an accurate quote requires understanding your property. We’ll discuss your situation and let you know what to expect. Once we visit and see what we’re dealing with, we give you a final, detailed price.
Q: Do you offer free consultations?
A: Yes. We’re happy to discuss your situation and answer questions. If you’re unsure whether you need a survey or what type, get in touch. We can help you understand your options.
Q: What areas do you cover?
A: We serve the entire Midlands region. If you’re in the Midlands and need tree surveying, we can help.
Q: How quickly can you arrange a survey?
A: It depends on the current workload and urgency. For routine surveys, we typically arrange visits within 1-2 weeks. For emergency assessments, we respond much faster, often same-day. Contact us with your needs and we’ll tell you what we can arrange.
After the Survey
Q: What do I do with the survey report?
A: Keep it safe. You’ll need it for insurance purposes, regulatory compliance, and planning applications. If tree work is recommended, use the report to get quotes from contractors. Share it with your team so everyone understands the findings.
Q: Can you carry out the work recommended in your survey?
A: Yes, we offer a complete range of tree work services, including crown lifting, thinning, dead wooding, felling, stump grinding, and more. If you need work done after your survey, we can help. Or you can use the report to get quotes from other contractors.
Q: What if I disagree with your findings?
A: We’re happy to discuss our assessment. We can explain our reasoning in detail. If you want a second opinion, that’s your choice. Our findings are based on professional standards and our 30+ years of experience. We’re confident in our assessments, but we understand you may want confirmation.
Q: How should I store the survey report?
A: Keep it somewhere safe and accessible. Digital copies are fine, but also keep printed copies. You may need to show it to insurance companies, regulators, or planning authorities. Store it somewhere you can find it quickly if needed.
About 4 Seasons
Q: How long has 4 Seasons been doing tree surveys?
A: Over 30 years. We’ve assessed hundreds of trees across the Midlands for schools, care homes, commercial properties, and local authorities. This experience means we spot problems others miss.
Q: Why choose 4 Seasons for your tree survey?
A: NPTC qualified staff, 30+ years experience, full insurance cover, BS 5837 standards compliance, understanding of duty of care requirements, clear communication, practical advice, and local knowledge of the Midlands. We treat every survey with the same level of care and attention.
Q: Do you work with schools specifically?
A: Yes, schools are one of our regular clients. We understand the specific concerns schools have, including duty of care, insurance requirements, student safety, and staff responsibilities. Many schools have us do annual surveys as part of their risk management.
Q: Do you work with care homes?
A: Yes. Care homes have elderly or vulnerable residents. Tree safety is an important part of their duty of care. We’re experienced with care home requirements and concerns.
Q: Can you work with our existing maintenance contractor?
A: Absolutely. We’re happy to coordinate with your facilities team or maintenance contractors. Communication between services ensures nothing falls through the cracks.