Tree Surveys
Professional tree surveys for planning applications, tree condition assessment and evaluation of root damage potential. Our expert arboriculturists deliver full BS 5837 reports tailored to your project needs.
Get a free quote- BS 5837 tree surveys
- Arboricultural impact assessments
- Tree constraints plans
- Root protection areas
- Tree preservation order advice
- Method statements
- Tree condition reports
- Veteran tree assessments
Expert Arboricultural Assessment
Our skilled arboriculturists work with architects, planners, developers, landscape architects and property owners, delivering full tree surveys tailored to their needs. Whether for planning applications or ongoing site management, our services ensure informed decision-making and effective tree preservation.
Tree surveys are essential for planning and development, particularly when trees are protected by statutory controls such as Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or are located within Conservation Areas. If you intend to develop land near protected trees, a full tree survey will almost certainly be required.
What Our Surveys Include
Our surveys assess tree quality and categorise trees based on their condition:
- Trees of poor quality, including those that are dead or structurally compromised, are recommended for removal
- Remaining trees are evaluated and assigned a retention category (A for high, B for moderate, C for low quality)
- Each retained tree is plotted on a Tree Constraints Plan (TCP)
- The rooting area is plotted to highlight the Root Protection Area (RPA) that must be left undisturbed
- An Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) determines how construction will affect retained trees
Supporting Your Planning Application
Local authorities require tree surveys to assess whether construction activity is likely to have an unacceptable impact on nearby trees. Our reports provide the evidence needed to demonstrate that your development can proceed while protecting trees of value.
We produce all documentation to BS 5837:2012 standards, including Tree Survey Schedules, Tree Constraints Plans, Arboricultural Impact Assessments and Arboricultural Method Statements. All plans are produced in CAD format for integration with your site layout drawings.
Survey Components
Arboricultural assessment
BS 5837 Classification
Trees categorised as A (high), B (moderate) or C (low) quality based on condition assessment.
Tree Constraints Plan
CAD drawing showing tree positions, canopy spreads and root protection areas.
Root Protection Areas
Calculated zones around each tree that must remain undisturbed during construction.
Impact Assessment
Analysis of how proposed development will affect retained trees, with mitigation recommendations.
How We Deliver Your Survey
Consultation
We review your requirements, assess the site and provide a detailed quotation.
Site Survey
Our qualified surveyors visit the site with the latest equipment to capture accurate data.
Data Processing
Raw data is processed, quality-checked and prepared in your required format.
Delivery
Completed survey data delivered on time, with full support for any follow-up queries.
The Red Box Advantage
Calibrated Equipment
Professional-grade instruments maintained and calibrated for accurate, defensible results.
Expert Surveyors
90+ years combined experience. CSCS certified, fully insured and professionally qualified.
Fast Turnaround
Most surveys completed and delivered within 5-10 working days. Rush options available.
Fixed Pricing
Clear quotes upfront with no hidden fees. You know exactly what you pay before we start.
Fully Accredited
SSIP, CHAS, CSCS certified. Members of The Survey Association with full professional insurance.
UK-Wide Coverage
Nationwide service from our head office in Cheshire with satellite offices across the UK.
Why Choose Red Box Surveys
90+ Years Combined Experience
Our senior management team brings over 90 years of surveying experience, ensuring every project meets the highest standards.
Nationwide Coverage
With satellite offices across the UK, we deliver efficient, cost-effective services wherever your project is located.
Latest Technology
We use advanced 3D laser scanning, GPS and GPR equipment to deliver precise, reliable data every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
For planning applications where trees are present on or near the development site, particularly when trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders or within Conservation Areas. Many local authorities require BS 5837 tree surveys as a condition of planning.
A BS 5837 survey categorises trees by quality (A, B or C), maps them on a Tree Constraints Plan, calculates Root Protection Areas, and provides an Arboricultural Impact Assessment showing how development will affect retained trees.
The RPA is a circular area around a tree, calculated from its stem diameter, which represents the minimum area needed to protect the root system during construction. It defines the zone where excavation, material storage and vehicle movements should be avoided.
Yes. In addition to planning-related surveys, we provide tree condition assessments that evaluate the health, structural integrity and safety of individual trees. These are used for ongoing tree management and risk assessment.
Yes. We can advise on the implications of Tree Preservation Orders, prepare applications for works to protected trees, and produce reports to support applications to the local authority.
Get a free quote
Ready to discuss your project? Fill in the form and our team will get back to you with a detailed quotation, typically within 24 hours.