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a house surrounded by trees which is for sale

Mortgage Tree Surveys

a small village with trees

You are looking to buy a new house, you've spent months whittling down the options and you've finally found the one that is just perfect for you. Now to get the mortgage sorted...

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"The mortgage company are asking for a tree survey, they won't lend us the money without it!"

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Mortgage lenders ask for a mortgage tree survey because they want to make sure that any trees on the property are in a healthy condition. They want to know their potential risk, the implications posed by the trees and reassurance that the property is insurable before investing.

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You need to be aware that just because a tree is blocking sun light from coming into your living room, doesn't mean that it is acceptable to remove the tree. You need to be sure that you can live in harmony with trees because they've been there longer than you have!

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We offer a survey that not only complies with your lender's requirements but also a detailed assessment of the tree's health and safety, giving you peace of mind.​

Buying a property with trees?

Trees can add significant value and character to a property, but they can also create concerns for mortgage lenders, particularly where large trees are located close to buildings, walls, drains or other structures.

If your mortgage lender, surveyor or solicitor has requested a tree survey, Wood's Tree Consultancy can provide an independent arboricultural assessment of the trees and their potential relationship with the property.

Why might a mortgage lender require a tree survey?

Mortgage lenders need to understand potential risks that could affect the condition or value of a property.

Trees located close to buildings and other structures can sometimes be associated with concerns such as:

  • Falling branches or tree failure;

  • Damage to walls, paving or other structures;

  • Damage to drains or underground services;

  • Physical interference from branches or roots;

  • Excessive shading;

  • Poor tree condition;

  • Tree instability;

  • The need for significant tree management.

A tree survey can help identify whether the trees present any significant arboricultural concerns and whether further investigation or management may be appropriate.

What does a mortgage tree survey involve?

We inspect the relevant trees and assess their condition, structure, location and relationship with the property.

Depending on the circumstances, our assessment can consider:

  • Tree species;

  • Tree height and dimensions;

  • Tree condition;

  • Structural condition;

  • Crown characteristics;

  • Rooting environment;

  • Proximity to buildings;

  • Nearby walls, roads and other structures;

  • Potential physical conflicts;

  • Signs of previous or current damage;

  • Recommended tree works;

  • The need for further investigation.

We then provide a clear report setting out our findings and recommendations.

Do trees need to be removed?

Not necessarily.

A tree being close to a building or other structure does not automatically mean that removal is required.

Where appropriate, we consider whether potential concerns can be managed through proportionate arboricultural measures rather than recommending unnecessary tree removal.

Depending on the circumstances, this may include:

  • Appropriate pruning;

  • Deadwood removal;

  • Regular monitoring;

  • Further arboricultural investigation;

  • Root investigation where appropriate;

  • Tree protection measures;

  • Retention with suitable management.

Our objective is to provide an independent assessment based on the condition, structure and circumstances of the trees.

What if the survey identifies a problem?

If we identify a significant arboricultural concern, we will explain what the issue is and what further action may be appropriate.

This could involve recommending:

  • Tree surgery;

  • Further arboricultural investigation;

  • Air Spade root investigation;

  • Root mapping;

  • Ongoing tree monitoring;

  • Specialist investigation by another suitably qualified professional.

Where further investigation is required, we can clearly explain what information is needed and why.

A clear report for your mortgage lender

Our reports are written in clear, straightforward language and are designed to provide the information needed to understand the arboricultural issues affecting the property.

We can identify the trees of relevance, explain their condition and potential risks, and set out recommendations for further action where necessary.

If your lender has provided specific requirements for the tree survey, we can take these into account when preparing the report.

Buying a property with large trees?

If you're purchasing a property with mature trees, particularly where trees are close to the house, it can be worthwhile obtaining professional arboricultural advice before completing your purchase.

Early investigation can help identify potential tree-related issues and give you a clearer understanding of the trees you will be responsible for managing.

A mortgage tree survey can provide useful information about the trees and help you understand whether further investigation or management may be required.

Who can benefit from a mortgage tree survey?

Our mortgage tree surveys can be useful for:

  • Home buyers;

  • Property owners;

  • Mortgage applicants;

  • Mortgage brokers;

  • Solicitors;

  • Surveyors;

  • Property developers;

  • Estate managers.

We can also work alongside building surveyors and other professionals where a wider property assessment is required.

Need a mortgage tree survey?

If your lender, surveyor or solicitor has requested a tree survey, or you're concerned about trees close to a property you're planning to buy, contact Wood's Tree Consultancy.

We can assess the relevant trees, identify potential arboricultural concerns and provide a clear professional report to help you and your lender understand the situation.

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