Professional tree surveys from qualified and experienced tree surveyors
A tree survey provides clear, professional information about the condition, safety and management requirements of trees. Whether required for planning, mortgage purposes, subsidence investigations or long-term tree management, a properly conducted tree survey removes uncertainty and supports informed decision-making. Our tree surveyors carry out detailed tree surveys using recognised standards and professional judgement.
Understanding what a tree survey involves and what it provides
A tree survey is a professional assessment of one or more trees to evaluate their condition, structural integrity and management needs. It identifies defects, assesses risk and provides practical recommendations based on the tree’s condition and its relationship with surrounding buildings, land use and future plans.
Surveys range from simple condition assessments for homeowners to detailed BS5837 reports for planning and development. In all cases, they provide written evidence that trees have been inspected by a competent tree surveyor using recognised methods.
"We have used Jason to carry out tree surveys for some of our clients and have to say the service is always exceptional. Jason is very knowledgeable and a pleasure to deal with!"
Situations where a tree survey is essential
A tree survey may be required in a wide range of situations, particularly where trees could affect safety, property or development decisions. You may need a tree survey if:
Trees are located close to buildings or structures
A planning application or development is proposed
A mortgage lender requests a tree report
Subsidence, heave or structural movement is suspected
Tree condition or safety is uncertain
Trees are managed as part of an estate, school or commercial site
Clear information that supports safe, informed decisions
A professional tree survey provides valuable insights into tree health and structure. Expert evaluation enables informed decisions about maintenance and care, protecting your investment and ensuring safety.
Reduced risk and uncertainty
Identifies defects, decay and structural weaknesses that may not be visible without professional assessment.
Planning and development support
Provides reliable information required for planning submissions, including BS5837 tree surveys where applicable.
Evidence for lenders and insurers
Mortgage tree reports and subsidence surveys provide documented reassurance for third parties.
Long-term tree management
Clear recommendations help prioritise work and plan maintenance budgets with confidence.
Independent assessment based on experience and recognised standards
Every tree survey begins with a clear understanding of its purpose and how the information will be used. Our approach focuses on delivering accurate, proportionate advice based on the condition of the trees, the site context and the client’s objectives.
Surveys are carried out by qualified tree surveyors with professional training in inspection, risk assessment and reporting. Where more specialist input is required, this is supported by Tree Surveys North West, a dedicated practice focused on detailed surveying, inspection and professional reporting.
A structured survey process that delivers clear, usable reports
Tree surveys are carried out using a structured and methodical process to ensure information is accurate, consistent and relevant to its intended purpose. Each stage of the survey builds a clear picture of tree condition, risk and management requirements, allowing findings to be presented in a practical, easy-to-use format.
Site inspection and tree identification
Each survey begins with an on-site inspection of the trees, during which individual trees are identified, measured and recorded. Information such as species, size, age and proximity to structures is noted to establish an accurate baseline for assessment.
Assessing tree condition and defects
Trees are assessed for structural integrity, defects, decay, disease and physiological condition. Consideration is given to how defects may affect stability and how trees interact with surrounding targets such as buildings, roads or footpaths.
Survey type and reporting standard
The level of detail recorded depends on the purpose of the survey. This may include a general tree condition survey, a mortgage tree report, a subsidence tree survey or a BS5837 tree survey for planning and development, using appropriate survey formats and terminology.
Written report and recommendations
Findings are presented in a clear written report, often supported by schedules or plans. The report outlines tree condition, risk considerations and practical recommendations, allowing clients, planners or engineers to make informed decisions.
Professional tree surgery carried out with safety, planning and compliance at the core
Tree surgery is high-risk work that requires proper training, planning and control. At Roots and Shoots, safety and compliance underpin every job we carry out, ensuring risks to people, property and the wider environment are properly managed in line with recognised industry standards.
Risk assessment & planning
Every job begins with an assessment of the tree, site conditions, access, nearby structures and public safety. This allows the safest working method to be planned before any work starts.
Training, competence & first aid
All tree work is carried out by trained, competent operatives holding relevant industry qualifications. Team members are trained in first aid, including trauma response, so they are prepared to deal with emergencies.
Equipment, PPE & safe systems
Professional-grade equipment is used and maintained for the work being undertaken. Appropriate personal protective equipment is worn at all times, and safe systems of work are followed for cutting, climbing and lowering operations.
Emergency & rescue planning
Rescue procedures are considered and planned in advance where working at height or in complex situations. This ensures a rapid and controlled response should an incident occur.
Compliance with industry guidance
All work is carried out in line with current health and safety legislation and recognised guidance from organisations such as the Health and Safety Executive and professional arboricultural bodies.
Professional-only tree work
Tree surgery is inherently hazardous and should not be attempted without the correct training and equipment. Working at height, using chainsaws and handling heavy timber all carry significant risks that require professional control.
"Roots and Shoots always do a brilliant job. They are very helpful, knowledgeable, informative and very good value for money. We have gone to them for all our tree work, including advice, for the past few years and have been very happy every time."
Tree surgery carried out by qualified, thoughtful tree surgeons
Roots and Shoots is a family-owned and run tree surgery business based in Charlesworth, on the outskirts of Manchester. Our reputation has been built through recommendations and repeat work by providing reliable, professional tree care carried out to recognised industry standards. From routine domestic work to complex commercial projects, we apply the same level of planning, training and care to every job, ensuring trees are managed safely, sites are left tidy, and clients receive clear, informed advice.
Family-owned, local & trusted
Roots and Shoots is a family-owned and run tree surgery business based in Charlesworth, on the outskirts of Manchester. We have built a trusted reputation through recommendations and repeat work by consistently delivering professional tree care and aiming for complete customer satisfaction on every job.
Qualified, skilled tree surgeons
Our professional tree surgeons carry out both domestic and commercial tree surgery in a skilled and courteous manner. No job is too big or too small — from large mature trees to small garden work — and every project is completed to a high standard using the correct tools and equipment, with all areas left clean and tidy.
Industry-recognised training & development
All tree surgeons are trained through recognised providers, including Myerscough College, with qualifications accredited by bodies such as NPTC and LANTRA. Training covers chainsaw maintenance, small tree felling, climbing, aerial rescue and advanced tree work, ensuring competence at every stage of development.
Safety-first, professional standards
Safety comes first on every job. Our team undertakes trauma first aid training and works to established safe systems of work, with careful planning and risk awareness built into all operations. This ensures the safety of our team, clients, the public and surrounding property at all times.
Professionally approved & fully insured
Roots and Shoots hold some of the highest professional accreditations available to tree surgeons. This recognises our competence, working practices and safety systems. We are fully insured, providing reassurance for homeowners, businesses and organisations alike.
Informed advice, surveys & long-term planning
Our experience extends beyond tree surgery into professional tree inspection and surveying, with qualifications accredited by LANTRA. We provide clear assessments, reports, site plans and prioritised recommendations, helping clients such as schools, estates and commercial sites manage trees safely and plan work with confidence.
Speak to a trusted professional tree surgeon about your trees
Whether you need advice, ongoing maintenance or professional tree work, we offer a free, no-obligation site visit to assess your trees and discuss the best course of action.