What Is Involved in a Tree Assessment?
When you notice unusual cracks, leaning trunks, dead branches, or simply want peace of mind about the trees on your property, a professional tree assessment is the safest and most reliable solution. In Adelaide, tree assessments are essential for identifying hazards, preventing property damage, and ensuring compliance with local council regulations especially if your tree may require pruning or Tree Removal services. But what exactly happens during a tree assessment?
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what a qualified tree arborist in Adelaide examines during the process.
1. Initial Inspection and Consultation
Every assessment begins with a discussion about your concerns whether it’s pests, structural issues, storm damage, or general tree health.
The arborist gathers key information such as:
- Tree species
- Age and history
- Recent weather impacts
- Previous pruning or damage
This step helps determine the type of assessment needed.
2. Health Assessment of the Tree
The arborist evaluates the overall health of the tree by checking:
- Leaf colour, density, and size
- Presence of pests and fungal infections
- Dieback in branches
- Cankers, cracks, and areas of decay
- Root health and visible root issues
A healthy tree shows strong foliage and growth, while discoloration or thinning may indicate disease or nutrient deficiency.
3. Structural Stability Check
One of the most important parts of a tree assessment is checking the structure of the tree. The arborist examines:
- Trunk stability and strength
- Branch unions (forks) for weakness
- Cracks or splits that may cause failure
- Leaning or imbalance
- Evidence of internal decay
These findings help determine whether pruning, cabling, or tree removal in Adelaide may be necessary.
4. Root and Soil Condition Evaluation
Since root systems support the entire tree, arborists inspect the soil and surrounding area for:
- Soil compaction
- Poor drainage
- Exposed or damaged roots
- Root rot or fungal growth
- Underground obstructions
Healthy roots = a stable and safe tree.
5. Risk Assessment (Hazard Analysis)
Arborists assess whether the tree poses a risk to:
- Your home
- Neighbouring properties
- Vehicles and driveways
- Power lines
- Walkways or public areas
This involves evaluating the likelihood of tree failure and potential consequences.
6. Tools and Technology Used
Modern arborists may use tools like:
- Rubber mallets (to detect hollow sections)
- Resistograph drilling (for internal decay)
- Sonic tomography
- Moisture meters
- Binoculars for canopy inspection
These tools help provide accurate, science-based results.
7. Recommendations and Report
Once the inspection is complete, the tree arborist Adelaide specialist will provide:
- A summary of findings
- Identified risks
- Suggested treatments (pruning, pest control, fertilising, mulching)
- Whether removal is required
- Maintenance recommendations for long-term health
If needed, you may receive a formal Arborist Report for council approval for protected or significant trees.
8. When Should You Book a Tree Assessment?
You should schedule an assessment if you notice:
- Leaning or unstable trees
- Dead or falling branches
- Visible rot, fungus, or termites
- Storm damage
- Cracks in the trunk
- Changes in foliage
- Nearby construction affecting roots
Regular assessments help prevent emergencies and keep your property safe.
FAQs
1. What is a tree assessment?
A. A tree assessment is a detailed examination of a tree’s health, structure, and safety conducted by a qualified arborist.
2. How long does a tree assessment take?
A. Most assessments take 30–60 minutes, depending on the number and size of trees.
3. Do I need a tree assessment before removal?
A. Yes. In Adelaide, especially for regulated or significant trees, an arborist must assess and sometimes provide a written report before removal.
4. How much does a tree assessment cost in Adelaide?
A. Costs vary depending on the tree size and reporting requirements.
5. Who should perform a tree assessment?
A. A qualified and insured tree arborist Adelaide professional should always conduct the assessment to ensure safety and accuracy.