A tree survey, or arboricultural assessment, is a professional evaluation of trees on a property performed by a certified arborist. This inspection assesses the physiological and structural condition of the trees, identifying species, age, health, and potential risks they may pose to people or property. The resulting report is frequently necessary for obtaining building permits, managing property risks, or securing financing. The cost for a tree survey is highly variable and depends on the scope and complexity of the required work.
Typical Cost Ranges Based on Survey Scope
The price of a tree survey directly correlates with the depth of analysis and the reporting requirements, falling into three general tiers of complexity. The simplest and least expensive option is a Basic Risk Assessment, which typically focuses on one to three trees for immediate hazard identification. This single-tree inspection generally costs between $150 and $450, providing a quick visual assessment of structural integrity and overall health.
A mid-range service is the Standard Inventory or Residential Site Survey, required when evaluating numerous trees on small properties. This inventory often covers up to 20 trees and includes species identification, measurements, and a basic health check for each specimen. For a typical residential lot, this service usually falls in the range of $300 to $900, depending on the property size and the number of trees involved.
The most extensive type is the Detailed Development Survey, known as an Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA). This survey is mandatory for most planning applications near existing trees. It requires detailed mapping, calculation of Root Protection Areas (RPA), and extensive reporting to comply with local development regulations. An AIA can range from $450 to over $2,000 for standard projects, though large commercial developments may see costs climb significantly higher.
Factors That Increase or Decrease the Survey Price
Several logistical and site-specific factors modify the base price of a survey, even if the scope of the final report is similar. The number of trees is the most immediate factor, where pricing often shifts from a flat fee to a per-tree rate, sometimes around $20 to $25 for each additional tree beyond a set limit. Trees showing signs of decay or disease require more focused time and potentially specialized diagnostic tools, such as a Resistograph, increasing the labor cost.
Site accessibility also plays a significant role in determining the final price. Dense undergrowth, steep slopes, or remote locations increase the time and difficulty for the arborist to perform a thorough inspection. Furthermore, the geographic location of the property influences labor rates, with urban areas commanding higher fees than rural settings. Expedited service requests for quick turnaround times will incur premium fees.
The required credentials of the arborist can also affect the overall price, as specialized expertise demands higher rates. A survey requiring a consulting arborist with advanced certifications, such as for expert witness testimony or complex ecological sites, will cost more than a standard health and safety check. These experts often have a deeper understanding of local ordinances and specific methodologies, which adds value to the final documentation.
What the Survey Price Includes (Deliverables)
The most tangible deliverable is the formal Written Report, a document prepared by the arborist detailing the methodology, findings, and specific recommendations for each tree. This report includes standardized risk ratings and health scores, often classifying trees based on their condition, structural integrity, and predicted life expectancy.
A comprehensive Site Plan or Mapping is a standard inclusion, especially for development-related surveys. This usually consists of a drawing that accurately plots the location of each surveyed tree relative to existing structures and property boundaries, noting the species and physical measurements. For construction projects, the report includes calculations for the Root Protection Area (RPA), which is the minimum zone around a tree that must remain undisturbed to ensure its survival.
When development is planned, the survey price frequently includes an Arboricultural Method Statement and a Tree Protection Plan. These documents outline the specific measures, such as protective fencing and ground protection, that must be implemented during construction to safeguard viable trees. The quoted price generally covers a brief follow-up consultation with the arborist to discuss the findings and ensure the client understands the implications of the report.