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Why Every Development Needs a BS5837 Tree Survey, and How It Protects Your Project

  • Writer: Andrew Davies
    Andrew Davies
  • Oct 30
  • 2 min read

When planning any development, from housing projects to commercial builds, one crucial step that often gets overlooked is the BS5837 Tree Survey. Yet, it’s one of the most important reports you’ll need before breaking ground.


At North West Tree Management, we carry out BS5837 Tree Surveys across North Wales, the North West, and the wider North of England, helping developers, architects, and planning consultants stay compliant, avoid costly delays, and protect valuable trees on and around development sites.


What is a BS5837 Tree Survey?


A BS5837 Tree Survey (short for British Standard 5837:2012 – Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction) is an essential survey required during the planning and design stage of any development project where trees are present.


The survey identifies:

  • The species, condition, and value of each tree

  • Their root protection areas (RPA)

  • Which trees should be retained, removed, or protected

  • How construction can safely take place around them

This report is required by local planning authorities to support your planning application. Without it, your development could face refusal or significant delays.


Why Businesses Need a BS5837 Tree Survey


  • Planning Permission Compliance: Councils across North Wales and the North West require a BS5837 survey as part of planning applications. Submitting a detailed, compliant report shows your commitment to responsible development and helps your project move forward smoothly.

  • Avoiding Costly Delays or Fines: Failing to identify and protect trees can lead to fines or stop notices, particularly if the trees are protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or located within a conservation area. Early surveys prevent these issues before they arise.

  • Sustainable and Responsible Development Protecting existing trees enhances the environmental value of your site and supports biodiversity. A good arboricultural consultant ensures your design balances progress with sustainability, something that’s increasingly valued by councils and communities alike.

  • Supporting Design and Risk Management: The data from the BS5837 report informs your architects and engineers about tree constraints, helping shape safe, practical site layouts and reducing future risks such as root damage or structural impact.


How We Help Businesses Across the North West and North Wales


At North West Tree Management, our qualified arboricultural consultants provide:

  • Full BS5837:2012 compliant Tree Surveys

  • Arboricultural Impact Assessments (AIA)

  • Tree Protection Plans (TPP) and Method Statements (AMS)

We work with businesses, architects, developers, and councils throughout Chester, Liverpool, Manchester, Wrexham, Mold, and across North Wales, Yorkshire, the North West of England and the whole of the UK. Our reports are detailed, easy to interpret, and designed to meet local authority requirements the first time, keeping your project on track.


Why Choose North West Tree Management?


  • Over 10 years of professional arboricultural experience

  • Fully qualified (Tech Arbor A, Professional Tree Inspection certified, QTRA registered)

  • Fast turnaround times and clear communication

  • Covering the whole of the UK, with a focus on North Wales, North West, and North England


Ready to Book Your BS5837 Tree Survey?


Whether you’re a property developer, architect, or local business planning a new build, we can provide everything you need to satisfy planning requirements and keep your project compliant.


📞 Call Andy today on 07538 338 204



 
 
 

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