Tree Inspection and Surveys

Managers and land owners have a ‘duty of care’ under the Occupiers Liability Acts 1957 and 1984 i.e. it is their responsibility to ensure that trees situated on their land remain in a safe condition as far as it reasonably practicable. To discharge that duty effectively regular inspections and surveys of the trees are required to assess the risk of should be carried out at appropriate intervals to ensure risk is reduced and harm is not caused where foreseeable.

The frequency and detail of a tree survey can vary from a less detailed "walk through survey" to a highly detailed "individual tree survey". Surveys are individually tailored to meet specific requirements of each client.

Information collected from a tree inspection/survey is correlated and recorded using the latest technology in computerised tree management software, GPS (Global Positioning Systems) and GIS (Geographic Information Systems). This ensures that trees are accurately plotted and the information is systematically recorded for all trees.

The tree data collected includes the following:
Individual identification number
Species
Height
Canopy spread
Maturity
Physiological condition
Structural condition
Comments and additional notes
Preliminary management recommendations
Works priority
Frequency of future inspections

A tree inventory can be created over a number of years, ensuring that any alterations to the physiological or structural conditions of the trees are recorded and the requirements for remedial action are identified.

Following our tree inspections and surveys all clients are provided with a detailed tree schedule, site plan and report, which can be provided electronically in order to reduce use of paper and cost. The tree schedule details all trees and provides information to assist with the completion of remedial management systematically within time and budgetary constraints. Following completion of works a further consultation and signing off inspection is always recommended.

All of our consultants and associates who undertake VTA (Visual Tree Assessment) and inspections hold the Lantra Award Certificate for Professional Tree Inspections. This is an industry recognised certification to ensure inspectors are arboriculturally qualified and competent.

Aerial Tree Inspections

In general our tree inspection work is undertaken from ground level, however, where required, detailed aerial inspections are undertaken either using ladders and MEWPS (Mobile Elevated Work Platforms) or by climbing inspections.

Climbing inspections are required where there are large wounds, cavities or splits associated with trees or following the identification of decay or decay causing organisms, and if thought necessary, would be recommended following the initial ground level survey.

Internal Decay Detection

If internal decay is suspected from the initial visual inspection or decay causing organisms identified, it may be necessary to undertake a further internal examination, in order to assess the extent of decay and provide additional information to ensuring the most appropriate remedial action is prescribed.

Which methods, tools and technologies will be used for this more detailed internal decay detection will depend on the location of the tree, its condition and the cause of the decay. Following quantification and mapping of any internal decay a prognosis will be given based on the findings of up-to-date research and recommendations for action will be made in line with current best-practice in the industry.

Tree Work Contracting

Wharton Arboriculture Ltd does not undertake in-house tree surgery. We believe this allows an impartial and unbiased assessment, with only the best interests of the client and subject trees at the heart of all recommendations.

Following a tree survey, and if requested by our client, we will liaise with the contractor who will be undertaking the remedial work and if appropriate discuss the specifications, get quotations and set up contracts.