Mortgage Tree Survey vs Arboricultural Report
- Connor Wild
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
If you've been asked to obtain a Mortgage Tree Survey or an Arboricultural Report, you may be wondering whether they're the same thing.
While both involve the assessment of trees, they are designed for very different purposes. Understanding the difference can help you avoid unnecessary costs, delays, and confusion—particularly when buying a property or preparing a planning application.
In this guide, we'll explain the key differences between a Mortgage Tree Survey vs Arboricultural Report, when each is required, and how to determine which one is right for your situation.
What Is a Mortgage Tree Survey?
A Mortgage Tree Survey is typically requested by a mortgage lender, insurer, surveyor, or property buyer when there are concerns that nearby trees could affect a property's structural integrity.
The purpose of the survey is to assess whether trees on or near the property pose a risk through:
Subsidence
Root damage
Foundation movement
Drainage interference
Falling branches or tree failure
The survey provides an independent assessment of the tree's condition, species, size, location, and potential impact on the property.
At Elite Ecology, Mortgage Tree Surveys start from £350 and provide clear recommendations that can be shared with lenders, insurers, and surveyors.
What Is an Arboricultural Report?
An Arboricultural Report, often referred to as an Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA), is typically required as part of the planning process.
Rather than focusing on property risk, it assesses how a proposed development may affect existing trees and how those trees should be protected during construction.
An Arboricultural Report may include:
Tree categorisation
Root Protection Areas (RPAs)
Tree constraints analysis
Development impact assessments
Tree protection recommendations
Mitigation measures
These reports are commonly requested by Local Planning Authorities to support planning applications where trees may be affected by proposed works.
Mortgage Tree Survey vs Arboricultural Report: What's the Difference?
Purpose
A Mortgage Tree Survey focuses on the relationship between trees and a property, helping lenders and buyers understand potential risks.
An Arboricultural Report focuses on the relationship between trees and a proposed development, helping planners understand how trees will be protected or managed.
Who Requests It?
A Mortgage Tree Survey is usually requested by:
Mortgage lenders
Property buyers
Building surveyors
Insurance companies
An Arboricultural Report is usually requested by:
Local Planning Authorities
Developers
Architects
Planning consultants
When Is It Required?
A Mortgage Tree Survey is typically needed during a property purchase or remortgage.
An Arboricultural Report is usually required when submitting a planning application for:
New housing developments
Commercial developments
Extensions
Infrastructure projects
Site redevelopment
How Do I Know Which Survey I Need?
You May Need a Mortgage Tree Survey If:
Your lender has requested one.
Trees are located close to the property.
There are concerns about subsidence.
A building survey highlighted potential tree-related risks.
You're buying a property and want peace of mind.
You May Need an Arboricultural Report If:
You're submitting a planning application.
Trees are present on or near a development site.
The Local Planning Authority has requested a tree assessment.
Development works may impact existing trees.
Can You Need Both?
Yes.
It's not uncommon for a property owner or developer to require both reports at different stages.
For example:
A developer purchasing land may initially commission a Mortgage Tree Survey to satisfy a lender. Later, when seeking planning permission, they may require a BS5837 Tree Survey and an Arboricultural Impact Assessment to support their planning application.
Although the reports assess the same trees, they answer different questions and serve different audiences.
Why Professional Arboricultural Advice Matters
Trees can significantly affect planning applications, property transactions, and long-term site management. Choosing the correct survey ensures you receive the information required by lenders, planners, and insurers while avoiding unnecessary costs and delays.
At Elite Ecology, we provide:
Mortgage Tree Surveys
Arboricultural Impact Assessments
Arboricultural Method Statements
Tree Surgery Services
Our experienced arboricultural consultants deliver clear, practical advice tailored to your property, planning application, or development project.
Need a Mortgage Tree Survey or Arboricultural Report?
Whether you're buying a property, applying for planning permission, or assessing development constraints, Elite Ecology can help.
Mortgage Tree Surveys start from £350, with quick turnaround times and expert guidance throughout the process.
Call us on 01782 308418 or email admin@eliteecology.co.uk to request a free quote.
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