Tree Consultancy Knowledge Hub
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Articles
Explore expert insights and tips on tree surveys, health, and management in our informative articles.
Navigating Legal Boundaries: The Role of Tree Consultancy in Resolving Property Disputes
Guest post by UK Land Registry Plans When it comes to owning or buying property, the presence of trees on or near a boundary can quickly lead to complicated legal issues. Property disputes involving trees are far more common than many people realise. Whether it is...
How to Protect Trees During Construction
Let’s be honest—construction sites aren’t exactly tree-friendly. Diggers, heavy machinery, and piles of building materials can wreak havoc on roots faster than you can say “Tree Preservation Order.” But protecting trees during development isn’t just about ticking a...
Health Risks Associated with Oak Processionary Moths
Understanding the health risks posed by Oak Processionary Moths (OPM) is essential for everyone, especially during the peak months when these pests are most active. In this article, we'll explore the potential health risks from OPM, share insights from recent...
Common Signs of Oak Processionary Moth Infestation
Identifying the signs of Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) infestation early can help protect the health of your trees and the safety of your community. This article will guide you through the visual signs of OPM, the symptoms in trees, the health warnings for humans and...
Understanding Oak Processionary Moths (OPM)
Oak Processionary Moths (OPM) are a significant concern for tree health and public safety. Understanding these pests is crucial for maintaining the health of our trees and protecting our communities. This article will introduce OPM, explain their life cycle, discuss...
How Much Can You Cut Off a Tree with a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) are legal protections placed on trees that have significant value to the environment, landscape, or community. If you have a tree with a TPO on your property, you might wonder how much you can legally cut without breaching the order....
Common Tree Diseases and How to Spot Them
Trees are vital components of our environment, providing numerous benefits such as air purification, shade, and habitat for wildlife. However, trees are susceptible to various diseases that can affect their health and longevity. This article provides an overview of...
How Often Should a Tree Survey Be Completed?
Tree surveys are essential for maintaining the health and safety of trees in both urban and rural settings. Understanding how often a tree survey should be completed can help prevent hazards, ensure compliance with legal requirements, and promote the well-being of...
What Happens If You Cut Down a Tree with a Preservation Order?
In the UK, Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) serve as vital legal protections for trees that contribute significantly to local environments and heritage. Instituted primarily by local councils, TPOs safeguard trees that enhance public spaces, provide ecological...
How to Determine if a Tree is Protected – in Essex or anywhere in the UK
This article contains an audio version. Listen along as you read. Understanding Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) A Tree Preservation Order, or TPO, is a crucial legal safeguard for trees. It prevents actions like cutting down, topping, lopping, or uprooting trees...
How much should a tree survey cost in the uk?
Last UPDATED: 1st May 2026 Tree surveys are really important for managing properties, planning cities, and protecting the environment because they help us understand if trees are healthy, safe, and how much they are worth. The cost of doing these surveys depends on...
Questions Answered
Get clear answers to common queries about tree surveys, regulations, and care from our experts.
What is the penalty for cutting down a tree with a preservation order?
In the UK, cutting down a tree with a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) without proper permission can result in severe penalties. The specific consequences can vary, but generally include Fines: If found guilty of unlawfully removing, damaging, or destroying a tree...
What is BS 3936 1992 nursery stock specification for trees and shrubs?
BS 3936-1992 is a set of standards for nursery stock, focusing on the quality and sizes of trees and shrubs for planting. It ensures that plants meet certain health, size, and form criteria before sale, aiming to provide buyers with reliably graded nursery products....
What is the British Standard timber Code?
The British Standard timber Code, specifically BS 5268, sets guidelines for the structural use of timber in construction. It covers everything from the selection of timber, design, and construction methods, to ensure safety and durability in wooden structures. This...
What are Category B trees?
Category B trees are those identified in a tree survey as having moderate quality. These trees aren't the top specimens but still contribute significantly to the landscape's character and biodiversity. They may not be as vital as Category A trees, which are of high...
How often should trees be inspected?
Trees should ideally be inspected at least once a year by a qualified arborist. However, the frequency of inspections may vary depending on factors such as tree age, health, location, and proximity to structures or people. Regular inspections help identify any...
Is a tree survey a legal requirement?
A tree survey isn't always required by law, but it may be needed for certain situations like applying for planning permission or complying with local regulations. It helps ensure that trees are properly considered in construction projects, preventing legal issues and...
What is the code for tree surveys?
The code for tree surveys, often referred to as the industry standard, is BS5837. This code outlines guidelines and procedures for assessing trees on development sites in the UK. It covers aspects such as tree species identification, measurement of tree dimensions,...
What does a tree survey include?
A tree survey includes a detailed inventory of trees within a specific area. It notes each tree's species, size, health, and life expectancy. The survey also assesses the condition of the trees, checking for disease or damage, and measures their distance from...
What is a BS5837 tree survey?
A BS5837 tree survey is basically a detailed check-up for trees where construction is planned. Experts follow a set UK rulebook (BS5837) to record what trees are there, what condition they're in, and how big they are. This helps make sure that the trees are considered...
Useful Links
Access valuable resources, guides, and external links related to tree consultancy and surveying.
- The Arboricultural Association – Provides resources for tree care professionals, including best practices and standards for tree surveying and preservation.
- Forestry Commission England – Offers guidance on tree preservation orders and laws related to tree protection in England.
- Ancient Tree Forum – Focuses on the preservation of ancient trees and offers advice on how to survey and manage old trees.
- The Tree Council – A charity that works towards promoting the importance of trees within the urban and rural landscape. Provides resources for tree wardens and tree preservation enthusiasts.
- Woodland Trust – Focuses on the creation, protection, and restoration of native woodland heritage. A great resource for understanding the ecological impact of trees.
- Trees and Design Action Group – Offers guidelines on integrating trees into urban design to promote sustainable cities.
- International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) – Provides educational programs, publications, and the latest research findings on arboriculture. While it’s an international organization, it has region-specific resources.
- British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) – Offers resources on landscape and tree management, including guidelines for tree surveying as part of landscape design.
- Royal Forestry Society – Provides education and knowledge on all aspects of trees, woods, and forestry.