BS5837 Tree Surveys & Reports
Serving Hertfordshire & Devon
At Waterman Tree Co., we specialise in BS5837 tree surveys and reports, ensuring your development project complies with planning regulations while minimising impact on existing trees. Our expert team works closely with architects, developers, and planners to integrate trees into designs effectively, improving your chances of a successful planning application.
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What is a BS5837 Tree Survey?
A BS5837 survey assesses trees on and around a proposed development site to determine their condition, value, and potential impact from construction. This survey is essential for any planning application involving trees and helps local authorities make informed decisions about development proposals.
Why Do You Need a BS5837 Survey?
- Required for planning applications where trees are present
- Identifies tree constraints and opportunities for retention
- Ensures compliance with British Standard BS5837:2012
- Helps avoid costly delays and redesigns due to tree-related issues
- Supports sustainable development by preserving valuable trees
Our BS5837 Survey Process
We follow a structured approach to ensure seamless integration of trees into your project:
Stage 1: Tree Survey & Categorisation
- On-site assessment of all relevant trees, hedgerows, and woodlands
- Recording tree species, size, condition, and root protection areas (RPAs)
- Categorisation of trees based on their retention value (A, B, C, U)
- Providing a detailed tree constraints plan (TCP) to inform design decisions
Stage 2: Collaboration with the Design Team
- Working closely with architects and planners to optimise design while preserving high-value trees
- Advising on construction techniques to minimise root zone disturbance
- Ensuring low to no impact on surrounding trees whenever possible
- Enhancing your planning application success rate by proactively addressing tree-related concerns
Stage 3: Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA)
- Evaluating potential tree loss or damage due to proposed works
- Recommending mitigation strategies such as tree protection fencing or root bridging solutions
- Providing an Arboricultural Impact Assessment report to accompany your planning submission
Stage 4: Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) & Tree Protection Plan (TPP)
- Outlining best practices for tree protection during construction
- Detailing necessary precautions, including protective barriers and ground protection
- Ensuring compliance with local authority tree protection policies
Why Choose Waterman Tree Co.?
- Experienced arboricultural consultants with in-depth knowledge of BS5837 standards
- Dedicated to balancing development needs with tree preservation
- Comprehensive reports tailored to support planning applications
- Practical, solutions-focused approach to tree management
If you’re planning a development and require a BS5837 tree survey, get in touch with Waterman Tree Co. today. Our expert team is ready to guide you through the process and ensure your project progresses smoothly while respecting the natural environment.
Trusted By
Hertfordshire BS5837 Tree Surveys
We’re based in Hitchin and have worked extensively throughout Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and beyond. Our knowledge of trees and the Hertfordshire landscape help us deliver a top-tier service throughout the region.
Based in Hitchin, Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City, or Hertford? Looking for mortgage tree reports? Give us a call at our Hertfordshire office on 01462 262420.
HERTFORDSHIRE
01462 262420
Devon BS5837 Tree Surveys
We’re also based in Totnes and our proud to provide our full range of professional tree services to homes and businesses across Devon. With it’s diverse tree landscape, you need arborists equipped with the right tools and knowledge.
Based in Plymouth, Exeter, or Torquay? Looking for any of our range of tree services? Give us a call at our Devon office on 01626 299420.
DEVON
01626 299420
What our customers say
Frequently Asked Questions About BS5837 Tree Surveys
How long does the BS5837 survey process take from start to finish?
The duration of a BS5837 tree survey can vary, depending on the size of the development site and the number of trees present. Typically, the initial survey and categorization stage can be completed within a few days, but the entire process from initial survey to the final submission of the Arboricultural Method Statement might take several weeks, especially if extensive collaboration with the design team is necessary.
What happens if a high-value tree is found to severely impact the proposed development plan?
If a high-value tree significantly impacts a proposed development, Waterman Tree Co. would work closely with the design team to modify the plan to accommodate the tree. If adjustments are not feasible, they may recommend specialized construction techniques to minimise impact, or in some cases, explore the possibilities of transplanting the tree. Each scenario would involve detailed discussions with the client and planning authorities to find a viable solution
Are there any follow-up services provided by Waterman Tree Co. after the initial BS5837 report submission?
Yes, Waterman Tree Co. offers follow-up services after submitting the initial BS5837 report, including ongoing monitoring of the trees during the construction phase and any necessary adjustments to tree protection measures based on actual site conditions. They also provide post-construction assessments to ensure that all mitigation measures were effective and that the trees continue to thrive.
Do you work in both Hertfordshire and Devon?
Yes! We’ve been based in Hertfordshire for over 10 years and have recently opened a new branch in Devon headed up by our founder Ben!
What is included in a BS5837 tree report?
A BS5837 report typically includes a tree survey schedule, a Tree Constraints Plan (TCP), Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA), Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS), and a Tree Protection Plan (TPP). These documents help planners assess how development may affect existing trees and how trees will be protected during and after construction.
When is a BS5837 tree survey required in the planning process?
BS5837 tree surveys are usually required at the pre-application or full planning application stage when trees are present on or near the site. Most local planning authorities will request a BS5837-compliant report to ensure trees are considered early in the design.
Can you liaise directly with our architect or planning consultant?
Yes — we frequently collaborate with architects, developers, ecologists, and planning consultants to streamline the design process, ensure tree retention where possible, and reduce delays from planning objections.
How does a BS5837 survey differ from a regular tree survey?
While a regular tree survey may focus on health and safety or risk, a BS5837 survey is specifically designed to assess trees in the context of development. It includes tree categorisation, spatial constraints, protection measures, and design recommendations required for planning compliance.
Can you help discharge tree-related planning conditions after approval?
Yes — we offer post-approval support such as site monitoring, updated tree protection plans, and compliance reporting to help discharge planning conditions related to arboriculture.
What if our site contains trees with TPOs or in a Conservation Area?
We can assess protected trees as part of your BS5837 survey and advise on necessary permissions or constraints. We can also handle TPO applications or coordinate with the local authority to ensure legal compliance.
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Specialised Arborists & Horticulturists at your Service!
We’re passionate about each and every tree, including your trees and gardens. We want your outdoor areas
to include trees that are in the best health, pruned and shaped – so that you can enjoy them now and
in the years to come
Health and safety is our top priority
We take health and safety extremely seriously, as one would expect. Each job is planned, and all risks assessed; which is why we carry out an on-site risk assessment upon arrival at each site every day.
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All quotes are provided free of charge within a 40 mile radius, so if you just want a small job or a number of trees worked on, please get in touch to find out how we can help you.
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Tree Felling & Tree Removal Specialists at your Service!
to include trees that are in the best health, pruned and shaped – so that you can enjoy them now and
in the years to come. In the event that a tree needs to be felled, we responsibly remove, careful not to damage the surrounding landscape, and recycle all waste.
Health and safety is our top priority
We take health and safety extremely seriously, as one would expect. Each job is planned, and all risks assessed; which is why we carry out an on-site risk assessment upon arrival at each site every day.
We Work With You
Free Local Estimates
All quotes are provided free of charge within a 40 mile radius, so if you just want a small job or a number of trees worked on, please get in touch to find out how we can help you.
Highly recommended - 5* review status
We’re highly recommended in Hitchin and across Hertfordshire, holding a 5-star review status on Google & Facebook You can also view other places that we are mentioned on the WEB.
Jobs Completed
Years Of Experience
Areas Covered
Why choose Waterman Tree Co.?
Health and safety is our top priority
Each job is planned as one would expect and all risks assessed; which is why we carry out an on-site risk assessment upon arrival of each site every day.
Fully qualified staff
All of our staff are fully qualified with NPTC and LANTRA certifications.
Highly recommended - 5* review status
We’re highly recommended in Hitchin and across Hertfordshire, holding a 5-star review status on Google & Facebook
Insurance for peace of mind
Waterman Tree Co. are fully insured and with up to £5 million worth of public liability insurance.
Environmentally responsible
We recycle 100% of all our waste, which is then taken to power stations to generate carbon-neutral electricity.