When a visual inspection raises further questions, a technical assessment provides the additional investigation needed to better understand a tree's condition, structural integrity or management requirements.
Our independent assessments combine professional judgement with recognised arboricultural principles to help clients make informed decisions based on evidence rather than assumption.
Most tree inspections can be completed through a detailed visual assessment. However, some trees present features that cannot be fully understood from ground level alone.
Extensive decay, structural defects, storm damage, suspected root issues or unusual growth characteristics may require more detailed investigation before appropriate management decisions can be made.
Rather than recommending unnecessary work or relying on precaution alone, technical assessments allow us to gather additional information where it is genuinely justified. This enables clients to better understand both the condition of the tree and the significance of any identified defects.
Every recommendation is proportionate to the tree, the site and the level of risk identified.
Technical assessments are only recommended where a visual inspection indicates that further investigation is likely to improve understanding of a tree's condition or assist with management decisions.
The appropriate method will depend on the individual circumstances of each tree and the questions that need answering. Where specialist equipment or additional expertise is required, we explain why it is appropriate and how the findings will contribute to the overall assessment.
Our role is to interpret the available evidence objectively and provide practical recommendations that balance public safety, tree longevity, biodiversity and the objectives of the client.
Detailed investigations where a routine visual inspection identifies features that require closer examination. These assessments provide a greater understanding of a tree's condition and support proportionate management decisions.
Assessment of cavities, fungal decay, included bark, weak unions, adaptive growth and other structural characteristics to better understand their significance and likely influence on future tree management.
Advice where rooting environments, construction activity, excavation or suspected root damage may be affecting tree health, stability or future development.
Where appropriate, recommendations may include further investigation using suitable non destructive techniques.
Where important features cannot be adequately assessed from ground level, aerial inspections may be recommended to obtain closer visual access to defects, cavities, branch unions or other areas of concern.
Where a more detailed evaluation of risk is required, we undertake structured assessments using recognised arboricultural methodologies appropriate to the circumstances of the tree and site.
This may include approaches such as VALID Tree Risk Benefit Assessment or Quantified Tree Risk Assessment (QTRA), where these are considered appropriate to support balanced, evidence based decision making.
Independent advice where trees are suspected of contributing to subsidence or structural movement, helping clients understand the arboricultural factors involved alongside any additional specialist investigations that may be required.
Technical assessments following branch or whole tree failures to help understand the contributing factors and support future management decisions.
Preparation of independent technical reports to support insurance claims, legal proceedings or professional advice where detailed arboricultural evidence is required.
A technical assessment may be recommended where:
Not every tree requires a technical assessment. Additional investigation is only recommended where it is likely to improve understanding of the tree's condition or assist with proportionate management decisions.
The exact deliverables will depend on the scope of the assessment, however they may include the items opposite.
Reports are written in clear, balanced language that explains both the findings and the reasoning behind any recommendations, making them suitable for both technical and non technical audiences.
Technical assessments are commissioned by a wide range of clients, including:
Every assessment is undertaken independently and tailored to the specific circumstances of the instruction.
Independent inspections that assess the condition, health and ongoing management requirements of individual trees or larger tree populations.
Explore Tree Surveys & Health Assessments →Arboricultural consultancy supporting planning applications, development proposals and the protection of trees during construction.
Explore Planning & Development →Professional advice relating to Tree Preservation Orders, Conservation Areas, statutory notifications and wider legal responsibilities affecting trees.
Explore Tree Protection & Legislation →Where a routine inspection identifies uncertainty, a technical assessment provides the additional evidence needed to support confident, proportionate tree management decisions.
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