Tree Health/Safety Surveys for Landowners and
Homeowners
According to the Forestry Commission:
“Where a tree shows external evidence of decay or structural weakness the
owner of the land on which it stands is normally liable for any damage it causes
by breaking or falling. The courts expect owners to inspect their trees regularly
and obtain specialist guidance on interpretation of symptoms and assessment of
tree safety. Before having any work carried out to trees always check with the
local planning authority to see if any planning restrictions (eg Tree Preservation
Order or Conservation Area) are in force on the trees.”
Forestry Commission leaflet: ‘The Recognition of Hazardous Trees’
There are signs, however, that landowners and homeowners themselves are becoming
more aware of these responsibilities, as evidenced by an increasing number of
requests for general safety surveys of trees in mature gardens.
It is advisable to have trees inspected annually by a qualified arboriculturist.
A Tree Safety Report by JCA will include all the necessary information for
a prudent tree owner to manage his/her trees effectively.
Recognising Hazard Trees |
