What is an arboricultural consultant?

An arboricultural consultant is a certified tree care professional who specializes in the health, safety, and management of trees. They combine technical knowledge with practical experience to advise property owners, developers, and local authorities on tree-related matters. Whether you’re planning construction near trees, dealing with diseased or hazardous trees, or aiming to improve your landscape, an arboricultural consultant provides expert guidance that ensures trees are protected and managed according to best practices.

Roles and Responsibilities of an Arboricultural Consultant

What does an arboricultural consultant do?

Arboricultural consultants assess trees for health, structure, and risk. Their work may include:

• Conducting tree surveys to identify species, size, and condition
• Producing reports for planning applications or construction projects
• Recommending pruning, cabling, or removal for safety
• Advising on tree protection during development or landscaping
• Suggesting woodland or urban tree management plans

They serve as an objective expert, often bridging the gap between property owners, local councils, and construction teams.

How is this different from a regular arborist?

While both arborists and consultants work with trees, the main difference is focus:

• Arborists perform physical tree work like pruning, removal, or pest management
• Arboricultural consultants provide assessments, reports, and recommendations, often without doing the physical work themselves

Some professionals combine both roles, but for legal or planning purposes, certified consultancy ensures independent, expert advice.

When should I hire an arboricultural consultant?

Consider hiring a consultant if you notice:

• Trees that may be affected by construction or excavation
• Large or historic trees needing long-term management plans
• Potentially hazardous trees near homes, roads, or utilities
• Legal requirements for planning permission, tree protection, or woodland management

Early consultation can prevent costly mistakes and preserve tree health while meeting safety standards.

What qualifications do arboricultural consultants have?

Most consultants are certified by recognized bodies such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or hold a degree in arboriculture or forestry. They often have:

• Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) certification
• Experience in producing tree reports for planning and construction
• Knowledge of local regulations and industry best practices

These credentials ensure their advice is scientifically grounded and legally defensible.

Practical Guidance for Property Owners

Can an arboricultural consultant help me save trees?

Yes. Consultants can develop strategies like:

• Crown reduction or structural pruning to reduce risk without removing the tree
• Cabling or bracing to support weak branches
• Soil and root protection plans during nearby construction

Even trees that appear unhealthy can sometimes be preserved safely with proper care.

How do tree surveys and reports work?

A typical survey involves:

• Inspecting each tree for species, size, health, and structural integrity
• Noting any defects such as cracks, decay, or fungal growth
• Producing a detailed report with recommendations for work, protection, or monitoring
• Including drawings or maps if needed for planning applications

Reports follow industry standards like BS5837: Trees in relation to design, demolition, and construction.

How often should I consult an arboricultural expert?

• High-risk trees or properties near construction: annually or after storms
• Established landscapes with healthy trees: every 2–3 years for monitoring
• Developing woodland or urban sites: as part of project planning

Regular consultation ensures issues are caught early, reducing risks and long-term costs.

Can they work with my regular arborist?

Absolutely. Consultants often collaborate with arborists or tree surgeons to implement recommendations. For example, a consultant may recommend structural pruning, and a licensed arborist carries out the work safely and efficiently.

This approach ensures trees are both safe and healthy, property owners meet legal obligations, and costly mistakes are avoided during development or landscaping projects.