Trees are a great addition to any property. They provide shade, look amazing, add value to your property and contribute positively to the environment. Having trees on your property comes with important responsibilities such as ensuring they’re taken care of, growing optimally and not causing any safety risks to surrounding properties. In this blog, we will talk about Arborist Reports, what they are, the purpose of Arborist Reports and the circumstances you may need them.
What are Arborist Reports?
Arborist Reports detail the condition of a tree or a group of trees and how they grow in relation to their surroundings. It can include recommendations on preserving trees and keeping them healthy. Arborist Reports are quite detailed. Therefore, they need a higher level of expertise to complete. It is for this reason that only a Certified Arborist with an AQF Level 5 Arboricultural qualification can prepare them.
Creating Arborist Reports typically starts with an AQF Level 5 Arborist conducting a Visual Tree Assessment (VTA), where they evaluate the tree and review the vegetation in the area. They then determine the tree’s vital information, such as species, structure, form, health, vigour and amenity value. The assessment aims to identify any areas of concern and potential issues that can pose safety risks and threats to the tree, other trees, and the community.
What Is The Purpose of Arborist Reports?
Arborist Reports serve many purposes. They are prepared when a formal assessment has been requested or is required. There are a few different types of reports an Arborist provides depending on what information the report will be used for:
- Arborist Report – a general report and assessment of land vegetation
- Vegetation Management Plans (VMP) – suitable for schools, commercial properties and body corporates, which includes details on how to manage large areas of vegetation
- Impact Assessment Report – for development and building projects; usually submitted to the city council as part of a development application
On the Gold Coast, the two most common reasons that Arborist Reports are requested are:
Requirement for Development and Building Projects
As part of any development or building project application, the Gold Coast City Council requires an Impact Assessment Report to identify any protected trees that may be affected during development and determine those that will need preservation during construction works.
Body Corporate and Schools
Body Corporate and Schools may need Vegetation Management Plans (VMPs) that will provide guidance on keeping vegetation in their area at healthy levels and recommendations on tree services necessary, such as tree pruning, removals, and replanting. These services can enhance greenspaces and reduce any risk of tree or branch failure that can harm the property or cause injury to people.
It is important to note that Arborist Reports are seen as recommendations only and are not legally binding or enforceable. However, investing in an Arborist Report highlights any issues or concerns to tree owners, and they can be found negligent if issues have been raised and not acted upon.
Purpose of Arborist Reports: To Provide Guidance On Keep Trees Thriving
Arborist Reports hold valuable information prepared by tree experts. They serve as guides for property owners to keep their trees and area vegetation levels healthy. As people are becoming more aware of the importance of tree health and maintenance, requests for Arborist Reports are also more frequent, and we will be glad to help you if you need one. Please feel free to get in touch with us.
