Development, planning applications, mortgage and insurance queries and duty-of-care obligations all sometimes require a written assessment of trees. Eastern Tree & Garden Specialists provides tree surveys and reports in Newmarket, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire for homeowners, landlords, developers and businesses.
Surveys and reports we provide
- BS5837:2012 tree surveys for development – tree constraints plans, categorisation of trees to be retained or removed, root protection areas and arboricultural impact assessments to accompany planning applications.
- Tree condition and safety inspections – assessing individual trees or whole sites for defects, decay and risk, with clear recommended actions.
- Mortgage and insurance reports – where a lender or insurer asks about trees near a property.
- Tree Preservation Order and conservation area applications – the supporting information councils need before work is approved.
- Ongoing management plans – for estates, livery yards, schools and businesses that need to show regular, documented tree inspections.
Why a proper survey matters
Councils routinely refuse or delay planning applications that arrive without a compliant BS5837 survey, and owners of trees have a legal duty of care to take reasonable steps to keep them safe. A written, dated inspection by a qualified arborist is the evidence that you have done so. Because we also carry out the tree work itself, our recommendations are practical and costed rather than theoretical.
How it works
Tell us what the survey is for and who has asked for it. We visit the site, assess and plot each tree, and provide a clear written report with plans and photographs in the format the council, lender or insurer expects. Where trees need work, we can quote for it at the same time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a tree survey take?
A single-tree report can usually be turned around within a week of the site visit. Full BS5837 surveys for development depend on the number of trees; we will give you a timescale when we quote.
Do I need a BS5837 survey for an extension?
If there are trees on or next to the site that could be affected by the building work, the planning authority will usually ask for one. Check with us or the council before you submit.
Can you survey trees I do not own?
Yes, where they influence your site – for example neighbouring trees whose roots or canopy extend over a development plot – subject to access to view them.
Need a tree survey or report for a Newmarket property or development? Tell us what you need and we will advise. Call 07783 360552 or request a free quote online.
