DAMAGE
 

 Damage to trees can occur in various ways, though the main types are:

• Direct -  Car, Digger impact damage , breaking of branches, vandal damage, Incorrect pruning techniques, Herbicide treatments.      Damage to built structures.

• Indirect - Alteration of site, removal of soil/ adding of soil. Compaction of soil. Water/ Hydrology changes.

The following is a brief outline of the more common areas that we get involved in -

Mortgage & Insurance Reports

At property purchase, it is often a condition of the homebuyer’s survey, for the purchaser to commission a report upon the implications of vegetation in close proximity of the property. This is generally with a view of forecasting the potential for property damage through the action of vegetation upon foundations, drains etc but may also be a response to visible cracking. We have trained  surveyors who have attended specific courses for 'Tree and Buildings' .

As so often a new experience for most people, determining the level of report required is extremely difficult with little guidance available from those requesting the report.

1.     Preliminary (Pre-purchase) Assessment

This service is aimed at identifying the potential for risk to properties from trees and allows and informed decision upon the appropriate level of survey required to satisfy the lender. In many cases, this preliminary assessment is adequate in terms of precautionary action as it may identify where trees are inappropriate to the site regardless of the risk of indirect damage (through root action on shrinkable soils) or identify factors which require more in depth investigation. This report also includes a brief health & risk assessment to identify potential direct threats of injury or damage from defective trees.

This approach is generally cost effective as it ensures that the purchaser is providing their lender with the correct information therefore avoiding excessive spending where it is unnecessary. Similarly, a brief assessment can be instrumental in identifying where future risk may be beyond reasonable limits and therefore allowing the purchaser an opportunity to withdraw or negotiate.

2.     Post (Property) Damage Investigation

Where damage has occurred, determination of cause can be a difficult and lengthy process that may involve several professionals. These situations are often managed by a loss adjuster who will employ the various professionals as and when required in order to gain the necessary information to prescribe a suitable remedy.

Soil type and foundation information may be provided by a structural engineer, who will often monitor the situation to establish the involvement of vegetation. Arboricultural information is invaluable throughout the investigation process to ensure that species specifics are accurately considered.

As arborists can provide soil sampling, root analysis, DNA sampling to determine which trees may be involved and prescribe a suitable course of action.

Tree Valuation

In insurance claims where trees have become damaged, or where trees are removed without consent, it is essential to determine their value in order to base a claim against. Several methods of tree evaluation are available.

See our section on Tree Law for more information. 

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