What is a tree consultant?

A tree consultant (also known as an arboricultural consultant) is a specialist who provides independent professional advice about trees, rather than carrying out physical tree work.

RC 13
RC 13

What is a tree consultant?

A tree consultant (also known as an arboricultural consultant) is a specialist who provides independent professional advice about trees, rather than carrying out physical tree work.

They help people understand tree condition, risks, legal constraints, and how development or management proposals may affect trees.

An Arboricultural consultant is someone who has gained recognised qualifications and expertise in the care and management of trees – particularly trees in landscape and amenity features, in gardens and parks or other populated settings where they are for the enjoyment and benefit of the public.

What does a tree consultant do?

A tree consultant may:

  • Inspect and assess tree condition and safety
  • Identify pests, diseases, or defects
  • Advise on tree protection during development
  • Prepare arboricultural reports for planning applications
  • Provide expert opinions for disputes or insurance cases. Serving as an expert witness in court cases.

How is this different from a tree surgeon?

  • Tree consultants mainly advise and report
  • Tree surgeons (arboricultural contractors) mainly carry out physical tree work

Some organisations provide both services, but consultants offer impartial advice

When should I use a tree consultant?

You may need a consultant if:

  • You are planning building work near trees
  • You are concerned about tree safety
  • A tree is protected
  • There is a dispute involving trees
RC 19

Arboricultural Association Registered Consultants

Arboricultural Association Registered Consultant is an accreditation for professionals who have attained a recognised standard of knowledge and experience, and have demonstrated the ability to practise as an arboricultural consultant in the most complex and demanding situations.

The aim of the scheme is to recognise excellence in the field of tree consultancy, and it is promoted by the Arboricultural Association as establishing the highest level of attainment available within the UK. 
It features a rigorous assessment process and clients can be confident they will receive expert and objective advice from consultants bound by a stringent code of ethics and professional conduct, enforced by a fully documented complaints procedure.

Find a Registered Consultant

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