Tree Condition Surveys: Protecting Trees and Managing Risks 

At Down to Earth Trees Ltd, we specialise in tree condition surveys that provide essential insights into tree health, structural integrity, and potential risks. Our surveys not only support your duty of care obligations but also help ensure trees are managed responsibly, sustainably, and with a balance between safety and environmental benefits.

 

Why Tree Condition Surveys Matter

Trees are living, dynamic organisms that contribute significantly to the environment, aesthetics, and biodiversity. However, trees can develop structural weaknesses or succumb to pests and diseases, posing risks to people and property.

A tree condition survey is a vital tool for:

  • Identifying risks: Detecting potential hazards before they lead to damage or injury.

  • Assessing vitality: Evaluating a tree’s overall health and its ability to thrive in its environment.

  • Informing management decisions: Providing practical recommendations for tree care, maintenance, or removal.

Duty of Care and Legal Obligations

Under UK law, landowners have a duty of care to manage risks from trees on their property. Key legislation includes:

  • Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957 & 1984: Landowners must ensure that trees do not pose foreseeable risks to visitors or trespassers.

  • Health and Safety at Work Act 1974: Employers must manage risks posed by trees in the workplace or on sites they control. Failure to take reasonable precautions can result in liability for damage or injury caused by falling trees or branches.

Our Common-Sense Approach to Tree Risk Management

  Balancing Risk and Benefits

At Down to Earth Trees Ltd, we adopt a common-sense, proportionate approach to tree risk management, grounded in industry best practices and guidelines such as the National Tree Safety Group (NTSG) framework.

Our approach involves:

  1. Balancing Risk vs. Tree Benefits

We carefully weigh the potential risks posed by trees against the considerable benefits they provide—environmental, social, and aesthetic. This ensures that trees are not needlessly felled and that sensible management practices are implemented to protect both trees and public safety.

  1. Evidence-Based Decisions

Balancing retention and risk reduction to achieve an acceptable level of safety (ALARP – As Low As Reasonably Practicable) without unnecessary interventions.

  1. Complete Solutions

Where mitigation is required, our team of skilled tree surgeons can carry out any necessary tree works, including pruning, crown reductions, and removals. This ensures a seamless process from survey to implementation.

  1. Clear Recommendations

Providing practical, actionable advice tailored to the needs of your site and objectives.  

What Sets Our Tree Condition Surveys Apart?

Balanced Management: Our approach ensures risks are managed proportionately while preserving the benefits that trees bring to your environment.

  • Complete Solution: We provide end-to-end support, from surveys to any necessary tree works identified during the process, ensuring your site remains safe and compliant.

  • Professional Presentation: Our reports include photos, maps, and diagrams for easy understanding of the condition and location of each tree.

  • Digital Integration: Clickable Google Map links help you locate and manage trees efficiently.

  • Qualified Consultants: Our team holds advanced arboricultural qualifications and has extensive field experience.

 

Book Your Tree Condition Survey Today

Take a proactive approach to tree management with our expert, common-sense risk assessments. Ensure the health, safety, and longevity of your trees with a professional survey. Contact us today to schedule your assessment!

Our interactive tree schedule presents clear and concise tree condition data with user-friendly features, including clickable Google Map links for precise locations and embedded photographs for visual reference. Designed for clarity and efficiency, this structured format ensures easy navigation and informed decision-making in tree management.

 
 
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Areas we cover

We cover most of the South East including Kent, Surrey, Sussex, London and Essex.

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