Tree Surveying and Inspections

Lowther Forestry Group provides nationwide tree surveying and inspection services across multiple sectors to help organisations fulfil their legal duty of care. Our qualified arboricultural consultants deliver detailed assessments using industry-leading tools and methodologies.

Survey Types and Methodology

Our tree surveying and inspection services cover BS5837 surveys, arboricultural impact assessments, tree protection plans, method statements, development watching briefs, Visual Tree Assessments (VTA) and condition and health surveys. Where required, our impact assessments include appropriate methods of tree protection to ensure trees and their rooting environments are safeguarded from damage during and beyond development completion. We also assess fungal infection and internal trunk condition using PiCUS tomography, producing detailed reports for advanced risk evaluation.

All surveys follow the Visual Tree Assessment methodology, an internationally recognised approach to tree inspection and risk evaluation. Our surveyors detect underlying issues that may threaten a tree's health or structural soundness, including detailed assessments of condition, amenity value, signs of fungal disease, trunk integrity and pest infestations. Findings are captured using specialist GPS and CAD recording systems, enabling clients to maintain comprehensive tree records for forward planning and efficient data management.

Our arboricultural consultants work closely with developers, local authorities, landowners and project teams to deliver surveys that meet planning requirements and support informed decision-making. We also carry out aerial bat inspections under the supervision of a ground-based ecologist, assessing habitat features for evidence of use by bats. Where remediation is recommended, our own arboricultural teams can carry out the works on your behalf, providing a streamlined service from initial survey through to completion.

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NHSS 18A, 18B
and 18C Accredited

Approved for arboricultural works on the strategic road network, covering tree surgery, vegetation management and related highway operations.
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Advanced Diagnostic
Assessments

Sonic Tomography, Biomechanical Assessment and Resistograph testing for detailed decay mapping, structural analysis and actionable reporting.
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Specialist
Arboricultural Fleet

Crane-mounted tree shears, whole-tree chippers, timber harvesters, mulchers and MEWPs. Purpose-built plant for safe, large-scale tree operations.

Comprehensive Tree Management, from Survey to Solution

Our arboricultural capability covers the full scope of tree management. Routine tree surgery, stump removal and vegetation clearance are delivered by NPTC-certified surgeons from all five regional offices, supported by a specialist fleet of modern plant and equipment.

For clients requiring survey and assessment services, our dedicated arboricultural surveying team is based at our Penrith head office and travels nationally. Services include BS5837 surveys, impact assessments, arboricultural method statements, development watching briefs and Visual Tree Assessments. Where standard visual inspection is not sufficient, we offer advanced diagnostic assessments including Sonic Tomography, Biomechanical Assessment and IML Resi PD (Resistograph) testing, providing detailed internal data on trunk condition and structural integrity.

This combination of surveying, diagnostics and operational delivery within a single organisation allows us to manage projects from initial assessment through to completed works, reducing the coordination burden for our clients and ensuring consistency at every stage.

Trusted By Main Contractors, Utilities and Public Bodies

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Testimonials

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Great service for firewood - good quality logs.

5 Star Review for Wired by Jessops (Cornwall) icon.

Jim White

Company Name

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Top class people to deal with. Tash in head office is great. Contracts manager Tom is a great lad. Done a lot of business with them over the years, always first class.

5 Star Review for Wired by Jessops (Cornwall) icon.

Steven Reaper

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Nationally recognised accreditations

NHSS 18A, 18B and 18C accredited for arboricultural works on the strategic road network. Certified to ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety).

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Five Offices Across the UK

Our arboricultural surveying team is based at our Penrith head office and travels nationally to deliver BS5837 surveys, advanced assessments and development watching briefs. Tree surgery and operational arboricultural works are delivered from all five offices: Penrith, Castleford, Runcorn, Milton Keynes and the West Midlands.

Common Questions About Tree Surveying

What is a BS5837 survey?
A BS5837 survey assesses trees on or adjacent to a development site and is typically required as part of a planning application. It categorises trees based on their quality and value, identifies root protection areas and provides recommendations on which trees should be retained, removed or protected during construction.
Do you cover the whole of the UK?
Yes. Our surveying team is based at our Penrith head office and travels nationally to deliver tree surveys across all sectors, including residential development, infrastructure, local authority estates and private landholdings.
What does a tree survey report include?
Reports include a full record of each tree surveyed, covering species, condition, size, amenity value and any identified defects. Findings are supported by GPS and CAD mapping data, along with clear recommendations and, where appropriate, proposed remediation measures.
How long does a tree survey take?
The duration depends on the size of the site and the number of trees involved. A small residential site may require only a single day, while larger estates or development sites with significant tree populations may take several days. We provide an estimated timeline at the proposal stage.
Can you carry out the remediation works you recommend?
Yes. Our arboricultural teams can carry out any recommended works, from pruning and crown reduction to full tree removal. This means the organisation that surveys your trees also delivers the remediation, providing continuity and reducing the need to coordinate with multiple contractors.