What is an Arboricultural Assessment Report in NSW?
An arboricultural assessment report is a professional document prepared by a qualified arborist. Also known as an arborist report, it includes an evaluation of tree health, condition, and structural stability.
These reports are essential due to safety and compliance concerns, which are often requested by schools where there is close proximity of trees on the grounds affecting staff and students. An assessment is required when trees could impact the safety of people, as well as the longevity of surrounding structures
What does it include?
A tree assessment report in NSW typically includes a detailed tree condition assessment and tree structure assessment, evaluating the tree’s health, stability and any potential risks. The arborist will assess the canopy health, root stability and trunk to produce a detailed tree health report.
Because arboricultural assessment reports are often required by local councils for development applications (DA), they must be prepared by qualified arborists capable of performing a certified tree assessment.
Our arborist reports follow industry standards and include a thorough inspection, including:
- Key details such as the purpose of the report
- Tree identification and description
- An overview of the health and condition of the tree
- Potential risks to people, structures and the environment
- Professional recommendations on maintenance or removal
- Compliance with local council regulations and legal considerations
- Supporting documents like photographs, site maps and any necessary testing
When do you need a tree assessment report in NSW?
Councils require an arborist report when trees are present on a development site and may be affected by proposed construction. This includes projects such as new driveways, extensions, renovations, knockdown rebuilds and other works that could impact nearby vegetation.
Reports may also be required when property owners apply to prune or remove trees that are protected under local council regulations. Arboricultural assessments are also required when trees pose potential safety risks. For example, if a tree has been impacted by storm damage, appears unstable and/or shows signs of decay, a professional assessment can determine whether the tree is a safety hazard and what actions may be required.
Who requests this report?
Arboricultural assessments are requested for residential, commercial and strata properties, local councils and golf courses when trees need to be evaluated for safety, planning or management purposes.
Commercial and strata property managers will require a report to ensure trees are safe for residents and the community. Councils require arborist reports when reviewing development applications to prune or remove trees, and when construction approval involves trees on the site. Golf course tree management requires a partnership between the certified arborist and superintendent to manage risk, safety and compliance.
Architects and designers may also request a report when planning a building and construction project. Understanding the impact of existing trees on-site is essential for informing site design to ensure compliance with planning requirements. The purpose of these reports is to provide professional advice so property owners can make informed decisions about tree management while complying with council regulations.
Why choose Arbor Pride?
Arbor Pride has been servicing Sydney for 20+ years, building a reputation for our quality service, clear communication and transparent pricing. We take pride in our work and are trusted by residential and commercial clients for our care of trees
Our team consists of qualified Level 2-5 arborists. We are members of leading arboricultural organisations and industry associations such as the Tree Contractors Association Australia (TCAA) and Arboriculture Australia (AA). Fully compliant and highly regulated to industry standards, we carry public liability insurance up to $20 million. Over the years, we have worked across a wide range of sites and projects, providing professional tree management services for projects of all sizes.
