Month: January 2026

At About Trees Ltd, we regularly work with developers, planning consultants and architects throughout Kent to provide accurate, compliant tree surveys that help move projects forward.

Whether you’re planning a housing development in Ashford, a new-build estate in Canterbury, or a commercial unit in Maidstone, one thing is consistent, trees on or near your site can have a big impact on your planning process. That’s where a professional tree survey becomes essential.

Why Kent Developers need Tree Surveys?

Most planning authorities in Kent require a BS5837 compliant tree surveys for developers in Kent when trees are present on or close to a development site. These surveys provide essential information such as which trees are of high value and should be retained, tree root protection areas (RPAs), potential constraints on layout and design and recommendations for protection or removal.

Failing to submit a proper tree survey can lead to planning delays, rejected applications, or enforcement action—especially where Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) are involved.

What Is A BS5837 Tree Survey?

BS5837 is the British Standard for trees in relation to design, demolition and construction. A typical survey from About Trees includes a full site visit by a qualified arborist, identification and categorisation of all trees, a Tree Constraints Plan (TCP) showing RPAs, guidance on which trees can be retained or removed and Recommendations for protective fencing or working zones.

We also advise on mitigation planting where required and can liaise with planning officers as part of the process.

When Should A Survey Be Commissioned?

We recommend carrying out the tree survey as early as possible, ideally before finalising your site layout or submitting your planning application. This avoids the risk of having to rework plans or make costly changes.

We’ve supported development projects in Folkestone, Herne Bay, Faversham, and many more Kent locations. Our approach is proactive, accurate and tailored to your project timeline.

We’ve worked with schools throughout Kent to carry out professional tree safety inspections for schools in Kent including recent projects like Swalecliffe Community Primary School tree safety project, where we assessed and mitigated risk across the school grounds.

Why Choose About Trees For Your Tree Survey?

At About Trees Ltd, we are qualified and fully insured arborists with extensive experience supporting commercial projects across Kent.

We offer a fast turnaround on tree surveys, flexible site visit scheduling and clear, practical reporting including CAD outputs where required.

Trusted by developers, architects and planning consultants throughout Kent, we provide reliable, professional insight to keep your project moving. If you’re working on a site and need a tree survey, get in touch today. We’re here to help you build with confidence.

Get in touch with About Trees Ltd today for expert tree surgery services tailored to your requirements.

We’re fully qualified, fully insured, and committed to keeping your outdoor spaces safe and well maintained.

About Trees Ltd is a professional tree surgeon based in Kent, providing reliable commercial tree services across the county. From safety inspections for schools to large scale site work for developers and housing associations, we support organisations with safe, efficient and fully insured tree surgery. Whether you’re in Canterbury, Maidstone, Ashford or beyond, our qualified team is here to help.

At About Trees Ltd, we work with schools throughout Kent to carry out professional tree safety inspections. These inspections are designed to identify any potential hazards before they become a problem, helping to keep pupils, staff, and visitors safe.

As we move towards the end of winter, many schools across Kent are beginning to look ahead to the warmer months. It’s a key time to consider outdoor maintenance and one area that should never be overlooked is tree safety inspections.

Why Are Tree Safety Inspections for Schools in Kent Important?

Trees may appear healthy on the surface but could be hiding serious structural weaknesses, decay, or disease. In school environments, where outdoor spaces are used daily and often by children, it’s especially important to ensure that trees are regularly inspected by a qualified arborist.

Reasons schools in Kent should prioritise tree safety inspections include:

Duty of Care: Schools have a legal responsibility to maintain safe grounds. Tree inspections are a vital part of fulfilling that duty.

Preventative Maintenance: Spotting issues early can prevent costly emergency callouts or property damage down the line.

Peace of Mind: Parents, governors, and staff feel reassured knowing the outdoor environment is professionally maintained.

When Should Schools in Kent Book a Tree Safety Inspection?

Ideally, we recommend a formal tree inspection at least once per year, preferably before spring when growth begins. However, inspections may also be necessary following high winds, heavy snow, or visible changes to a tree’s condition.

What Does a School Tree Inspection Involve?

At About Trees Ltd, our inspections are carried out by qualified tree surgeons with years of experience working in school settings. Each tree is visually assessed for signs of fungal infections or decay, structural defects, root plate movement, deadwood or broken limbs and proximity to buildings or play areas

We provide a detailed written report with findings, including photographic evidence where appropriate and clear recommendations for next steps.

We’ve worked with schools throughout Kent to carry out professional tree safety inspections for schools in Kent including recent projects like Swalecliffe Community Primary School tree safety project, where we assessed and mitigated risk across the school grounds.

Specialist Experience in Educational Settings

Working with schools requires more than just technical skill. We understand the importance of minimising disruption to the school day, ensuring safeguarding and site security procedures are followed all whilst providing clear communication with site managers or premises staff

We have successfully completed tree inspections and remedial work for schools in Whitstable, Swalecliffe, Canterbury, Ashford and across East Kent.

Booking a Tree Survey with About Trees

If you’re a site manager, facilities team member or school business leader in Kent, now is the ideal time to book your annual inspection. Whether you need a one-off survey or ongoing maintenance support, we offer flexible and cost-effective solutions for schools of all sizes.

Get in touch with About Trees Ltd today for expert tree surgery services tailored to your school.

We’re fully qualified, fully insured, and committed to keeping your outdoor spaces safe and well maintained.

About Trees Ltd is a professional tree surgeon based in Kent, providing reliable commercial tree services across the county. From safety inspections for schools to large scale site work for developers and housing associations, we support organisations with safe, efficient and fully insured tree surgery. Whether you’re in Canterbury, Maidstone, Ashford or beyond, our qualified team is here to help.