An arborist report is a written assessment of one or more trees by a qualified consulting arborist. Councils and certifiers use it to make decisions, and owners use it to understand risk. Here's when you'll need one.
Common reasons for a report
- Council has asked for one to support a tree removal or pruning application
- You're lodging a development application or CDC and there are trees on or near the site
- You need a tree protection plan for construction
- An insurer, strata committee or property manager wants an independent opinion on risk
- You're in a dispute with a neighbour over a tree
Who can write one
Central Coast Council and Hornsby Shire Council both expect reports from an arborist with at least an AQF Level 5 qualification. Marcus Nicholson holds AQF Level 5, is a registered QTRA user (#6912) and is a VALID Tree Risk-Benefit Assessor.
What goes in a report
A good report identifies each tree, records its size, health and structure, assesses risk where that's relevant and makes clear recommendations. Development reports also look at how construction will affect roots and canopy, and set out protection measures.
What affects the cost
The fee depends on the number of trees, the type of report, how much measuring and mapping is involved and whether site supervision is needed during construction. A single-tree report for a removal application is at the lower end. An impact assessment for a multi-lot development is at the upper end. We quote a fixed fee before we start.
Turnaround
Most reports are delivered within a few working days of the site visit. Tell us if you have a deadline from council or your certifier.
Ask about a report or call 0422 204 063.