Trees can often become a source of conflict, whether it’s between neighbours or property owners and councils. It could be overhanging branches, you may want to have a protected tree removed, there could be a dangerous looking tree that’s close to a home or roots that are damaging a driveway for example. Because of this, tree disputes are surprisingly common and Arborists are called upon to help come to an amicable resolution.

Let’s take a closer look at exactly what role Arborists play when it comes to tree disputes and what you need to know if you find yourself in this situation.

Arborists And Tree Disputes

When it comes to tree disputes, Arborists play a key role in getting to a resolution. An Arborist serves as an independent, impartial expert who by using their professional experience, knowledge and skill is tasked with assessing both current and potential risk, identifying current and potential damage and providing advice on appropriate management solutions or interventions required.

Their professional knowledge and objectivity is invaluable and their findings considered the one ‘source of truth’ that helps to find a fair and safe outcome for all parties in an often highly charged situation where an agreement has not been able to be reached and there are differing opinions.

What Is An Arborist Report?

Once the Arborist has finalised their assessment of the tree or group of trees, they will provide comprehensive evidence of their findings for a council’s or tribunal’s (depending on the particular circumstances) consideration in the form of a document called a tree report.  

Tree reports carry significant weight when it comes to tree disputes and can be used as evidence in legal proceedings. Tree reports must only be done by a qualified, Level 5 Arborist or they are not admissible and will not be considered.

Tree reports can be used in a range of circumstances, for instance where this is a dispute between neighbours or where a property developer or homeowner wants to remove a protected tree for example.

How To Choose The Right Arborist

When choosing an Arborist to provide a tree report, it’s essential that you make a carefully considered decision. As mentioned previously, they must be a qualified, Level 5 AQF (Australian Qualifications Framework) professional who should be able to provide you with evidence of this. You want to hire someone who has had significant experience in writing detailed tree reports and ask if they have done assessments and reports in similar circumstances to yours.

Always ask for a quote before any work is carried out, as prices will vary between Arborists and will be dependent on how complex the case is.

Work With Aussie Tree Solutions In Brisbane

For all your professional consulting arborist, tree care and maintenance needs, speak to the team at Aussie Tree Solutions today. We have been looking after South-East Queensland homeowners, schools, businesses and councils for over forty years, so whatever your tree issue, we’ll get to the root of it safely and efficiently, for your total peace of mind. We provide a full range of services from expert tree pruning and tree removals to consulting Arborist services and everything in between.