A BS5837 tree survey sorts every tree on your site into one of four categories. The categories describe tree quality and retention value; they do not decide which trees must be removed.
- Category U: Unsuitable for retention
- Trees assessed as unsuitable for retention because of their condition and limited remaining contribution. Category U is a condition and retention classification, not a felling permission. Any proposed work still depends on the approved scheme, applicable consent and the work specification.
- Category A: High quality and value
- High quality and high value trees, normally given priority for retention and protection. The agreed layout and protection measures determine what happens on the site.
- Category B: Moderate quality and value
- Moderate quality and value trees that may be retained where practicable. The project team considers them alongside the layout, constraints and other evidence.
- Category C: Low quality and value
- Lower quality and value trees. They may be retained, pruned or proposed for removal, depending on the scheme and the work specification.
A tree survey for planning informs the design. Categories assess the trees, not whether they fit a proposed building footprint. The project team then considers retention, protection and any proposed work alongside planning requirements.
Got a tree that needs work?
We review the situation. We give you a fixed quote. No hidden costs. What we quote, you pay.