A pre-purchase tree survey, also known as a Home Buyers Tree Survey or pre-purchase tree report, evaluates the risk of property damage from nearby trees and their roots. This survey is often required when buying or re-mortgaging a home with trees on the property. Sometimes referred to as a Subsidence Risk Assessment tree survey, we provide these arboricultural reports for lenders, insurers, homeowners, and buyers. This cost-effective service helps prospective home buyers identify any tree-related issues quickly.

Our pre-purchase/home buyers’ tree survey includes three key services:

Underground Risk Assessment

This assessment, suitable for lenders and insurers, covers all trees potentially affecting the property and offers vegetation management advice to mitigate root-related damage risks. Our consultant will evaluate factors such as tree species, NHBC water demand classification, tree height, and canopy size. You will receive management recommendations to alleviate any identified risks.

Above Ground Risk Assessment

This assessment covers all trees within the property boundary, recommending measures to reduce the risk of structural failure in trees and branches. Our consultant will inspect each tree’s physiological and structural condition, including the trunk, stem base, scaffold branches, and branch junctions, for defects, disease, or decay symptoms that might compromise the tree structurally. This ensures compliance with the Occupiers Liability Act 1984 by minimizing risks posed by trees to the public.

Tree Protection Status Query

Upon request, we will liaise with the local authority to determine the protection status of any trees on the property and whether it is within a conservation area. This aids in management recommendations if needed. If a tree is protected, you must apply to the local authority for permission before any pruning or tree work. Unauthorized work on a protected tree can result in substantial fines.

For trees within a conservation area, a notice of intent must be submitted before undertaking any work.