What Is an Arborist Report and Do You Need One?

 There are various occasions when a tree report is necessary. A homeowner calls a tree surgeon because they’re concerned about the risks posed by a specific tree in their garden. The tree surgeon will make their report and help the homeowners use the area the best (for stooping new building projects, for example). If you are in such situation you’re probably wondering what to do.

A tree surgeon report is a good way to start.  These professionals will help you the potential dangers of trees to the public and members of staff

Arborist reports are legal documents that, if required, can hold up in court. There are different types of arborist reports; they are specific to the site and timeline of any project. Let’s check some important details you need to know before you ask for this service.

What is an Arborist Report?

A tree surgeon report or arborist report provides information about the cause of issues such as pest or disease threats, site conditions, or mechanical injury. If there are recommendations actions, make sure to note them. It may include site remediation, increasing vigour through fertilization or injections, pest control, air spading to examine and treatment of root issues, pruning and even removal if it’s necessary.

Arborist reports are also needed in your municipality since one of the documents will be required to get permission to remove the specific tree.

Do You Need an Arborist Report?

The best way to check if you need this report is to check the website of your community (municipality, town or city). There you’ll get the needed information on whether arborist reports are needed in your community. Communities differ in their requirements for tree protection. Make sure to contact your city website, to get farther information about your requirements.

A tree survey records are crucial information about a tree so the owners or site supervisors can make a decision on what action to take in the future to keep people and property safe. The report will record the species of the tree, the tree’s vital statistics such as height and diameter, its age and its health. This report will show proof of injuries caused by pest infestations, disease, or any areas of damage. The report will also consider life expectancy and will recommend the owners what steps should they take to ensure the tree will remain healthy in the future.

Some mortgage companies will require a tree report before they agree to a loan. This is because in rare cases, tree roots can create serious damage to the foundations of the property which may end in basic movement and subsidence. Don’t be surprised if an insurance company also asks for a tree survey to determine cover and liability.

As a landowner, you have responsibility for the trees on your property.  You have the duty of care to make sure your trees are safe. An insurance company will not accept liability and won't pay a damage settlement to an injured person as a result of a fallen tree if you as a homeowner didn’t ask professional advice on the potential risks from the tree. This is why you should take reasonable steps to solve potential problems. You as a homeowner may even be held personally accountable if such an incident happens; you may end up with private litigation.

A tree report is a practical way of keeping a regular record of a tree’s health and often includes photographs for evidential purposes. The record could also include a tree safety policy to limit liability for homeowners and private businesses. By following the recommended advice, you're complying with your responsibility to safeguard the public and property from hazardous trees.

Why It’s Important?

Arborist reports are essential to provide information about the health and state of specific trees. In such reports you’ll find the cause of the problem, and what actions may be taken to solve the problem. Arborist reports are also crucial to city foresters; it helps determine which trees should be taken down without damage to the community.

Let’s say that a rare tree is in a good state. Since this is a rare kind, it will require protection. On the other hand, a dead tree may be taken down and new trees will be replanted on its place. This way there will be enough trees, and the beauty and environmental benefits will be kept; no one will be at risk of injuries of the dead tree. This is how everyone will benefit. 

Who Can Do Arborist Reports?

Arborist reports are only prepared by professionals in arboriculture. These people have an excellent experience with tree assessment. You should seek arborists who perform arborist reports and tree protection plans.

Tree reports can be requested by any person who has a legal responsibility, duty of care and interest in the health safety and management of trees. This includes homeowners, health boards, local authorities, planners, developers, housing associations, architects, estate managers and solicitors.

Keeping your yard in a good state is great not only for the aesthetics but for the wellbeing of the entire community. If you notice that any tree on your property might be in a bad state (pest infestation, or other damage) make sure you seek help from a tree surgeon. Get the report so things will be clear. This way you’re protecting yourself from potential lawsuits. If it happens that the damaged tree falls and injures another person or causes damage to another person’s property, you will be held responsible, especially if there isn’t an arborist report. 

Rare types of trees are also on the list of such reports. The city foresters will make sure to maintain and keep the tree in good health.

If you’re seeking insurance policy for your property, the company might seek arborist report (for potential damages). The same goes for mortgages.

We hope that we helped you expand your knowledge about this topic. Always be sure to take care of the trees on your properties and keep the well-being of your local community’s nature.