Arborist Reports Explained: What They Are and When You Need One
An arborist report is a professional assessment of a tree's health, structure, and risk. This guide explains the different types, what they include, when they are required, and how much they cost in Tasmania.
Find an Arborist for a ReportTypes of Arborist Reports
Arborist reports come in several levels of detail and formality. The type you need depends on your situation and what your council or insurer requires:
Basic Assessment (Verbal or Letter)
InformalWhat is included:
- ✓Visual inspection of the tree
- ✓Verbal or brief written advice
- ✓General health and risk assessment
- ✓Recommendation on action needed
When you need it:
Suitable when you need quick advice on a tree's condition or when your council accepts a letter-form assessment for minor works.
Standard Arborist Report
Level 1 - 3What is included:
- ✓Detailed visual tree assessment (VTA)
- ✓Tree species identification and measurements
- ✓Health, structure, and risk evaluation
- ✓Photographic documentation
- ✓Formal written recommendations
- ✓Site plan showing tree location
When you need it:
The most common type for council planning applications. Required by most Tasmanian councils when applying to remove a significant tree. Also useful for insurance claims and property disputes.
Comprehensive Assessment (Level 5)
Level 5What is included:
- ✓Everything in a standard report
- ✓Detailed risk quantification (QTRA or similar)
- ✓Resistance drilling or sonic tomography
- ✓Root zone assessment
- ✓Soil and site analysis
- ✓Comprehensive management plan
- ✓Expert witness suitability
When you need it:
Required for high-value trees, significant planning disputes, legal proceedings, insurance disputes, or when detailed internal decay assessment is needed. Often required for trees on the Significant Tree Register.
When Is an Arborist Report Required?
Council tree removal applications
Most Tasmanian councils require an arborist report as part of a planning application to remove a significant tree. The report justifies the removal and provides the council with professional evidence to assess your application. See our council tree removal guide for details on each council.
Development applications
Building and subdivision applications affecting trees typically need an arborist report detailing which trees will be retained, removed, or impacted by construction. A tree protection plan may also be required.
Insurance claims
If a tree has caused property damage or you need to demonstrate it poses an imminent risk, an arborist report provides the professional documentation your insurer needs. This applies to both your own trees and those on neighbouring properties.
Neighbour and property disputes
When trees cause disputes between neighbours (overhanging branches, root damage, shade), an independent arborist report provides objective evidence that can help resolve the issue without legal action.
Pre-purchase property assessments
Before buying a property with significant trees, an arborist assessment can identify potential issues, liabilities, and future costs. This is particularly important for properties with large eucalyptus trees or those near bushland.
Need an Arborist Report?
We connect you with qualified consulting arborists who can prepare the report you need, from basic assessments to comprehensive Level 5 evaluations.
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