Bath Tree Surgeon Somerset: An attractive feature of many gardens and properties in Bath, trees add structure, substance and style to what can at times be a boring and two dimensional landscape. However, when trees are neglected or are affected by damaging weather conditions such as high winds or flooding, problems can result. Seeking the advice of an established tree surgeon in Bath, is the safest option when work needs to be done on your trees.
Those who employ a non-qualified operative, or attempt to do tree work for themselves, may cause a risk of damage to the trees, to property or to life. However, tree work isn't a safe vocation, even for professional tree surgeons, who know about all the risks. Within the industry there are a worrying average of 140 serious injuries and three deaths annually, making tree surgery among the most dangerous jobs in the UK.
With falling branches or trees causing around 5 fatalities each year in Britain, a risk to life can even be caused by a damaged or neglected tree. If you bring in somebody to conduct tree work and subsequently property is damaged, or an injury occurs, you may be liable for any compensation to any third-party due to the consequences of your actions. These are merely a few of the reasons why it is imperative to hire an accredited tree surgeon to undertake the work on your trees in Bath. (Figures sourced from HSE).
CHOOSING A TREE SURGEON IN BATH - A competent Bath tree surgeon ought to be a registered member of at least one of the 2 professional trade bodies found in Britain. Both the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and the Arboricultural Association (AA) offers a website where you can check up on the membership and professional standing of any tree surgeon. This webpage permits you to check if any specific tree surgeon has Approved ARB Contractor status, and is a member of either of these two bodies.
You can communicate with these industry organisations for assistance in arbitration and for help and advice, if a problem emerges at any stage during the course of the work, or after it has been finished.
If any tree surgeon who isn't on this directory offers to provide you with a quote, you should graciously decline their offer of work and continue your search for an accredited contractor. When their accreditations and professional memberships have been thoroughly checked, you should try to get at least 3 price quotes from different companies in Bath. You should ask the following questions whilst getting these quotations, making it crystal clear that you need the answers because of the risks involved in the work:
- Can you show documentary proof of your professional membership, qualifications and a NPTC certificate for the use of a chainsaw? Any operative/tree surgeon who uses a chainsaw, must by law have gained NPTC/LANTRA certification. Qualifications can include City & Guilds Diplomas and Certificates in Arboriculture.
- Is It Possible To contact a recent person who you've worked for so that I can assess the quality of your work? Independently checking any recent work is always recommended.
- Precisely what level of insurance cover do you have? Your tree surgeon ought to be able to produce an insurance certificate covering no less than five million pounds public liability, as stated by the AA and ISA.
- Can you give me a written quotation? Only ever accept a quote in writing. NEVER settle for a verbal quote only.
On the written quote that you receive, you will need there to be easy to follow specifics of all the work that is being undertaken. Who's responsible for removing tree branches, stumps and debris should be stated, as should details of any trees which may be protected in law, and the required steps to obtain permission to carry out work on them. You should also make sure that VAT is included on the quotation unless you are a commercial entity. It is vitally important to recognise that you've got a responsibility for employing only capable people to work on your trees and property. This is stated under the "Common law duty of care responsibilities and sometimes liabilities under the Occupier's Liability Acts of 1957 and 1984."
PRIOR TO WORK - Making enquiries into the possibility of any of your trees being protected, your chosen Bath tree surgeon should make certain that any work can get the green light from the relevant local authority department. Discovering that a tree has got protected status does not mean that work can't be carried out, as even protected trees need to be maintained so as to cut back old or damaged wood and ensure the safety of the public.
If your property in Bath is situated in a conservation area then at least six weeks written notice must be given to the Local Planning Authority (LPA) prior to any work being performed. This written notice isn't required if the trunk of the tree is under 7.5 centimetres in diameter when measured at 1.5m above the ground. If the thinning or pruning of a protected tree's branches are required in order to promote and sustain growth, written notice is also not necessary.
After completing a complete assessment of your trees health, your chosen Bath tree surgeon will decide on the required remedial treatment and how best and safely to achieve the required outcome. This will involve doing a risk assessment to include your property, public areas and any parts of neighbouring properties that could be affected by falling branches and debris. At this stage, the level of protection required and the number of operatives needed will also be determined. This is both personal protection equipment together with other safety measures to keep the public and other property safe from damage or harm.
ON THE DAY OF WORK - To keep passers-by and unauthorised persons away from the area of work, cones, safety measures and barriers will be put in place before any tree felling, climbing or cutting of branches begins. If there's any threat of debris falling onto a public highway, traffic may have to be stopped temporarily.
According to the kind of work that's required a tree surgeon will need varying levels of protection. When carrying out basic tree work with a chainsaw, to avoid serious cutting injuries to the torso, hands and legs, they will at the very least be wearing protective clothing. Every worker involved in the operation, must at all times be wearing high-vis clothing, and eye and head protection.
Additional personnel will generally be required to assist in the removal of high branches and sections of tree trunk, especially if working at height is involved, and where safety climbing equipment and ladders are being deployed. For the removal of waste, access to the site will be needed. So, it's a good idea to inform your next door neighbours, since a skip or pick up truck will need to be parked as close to the work area as possible while the work proceeds.
AFTER COMPLETION OF WORK - The site can be cleared of any debris, and all the waste can be taken away, as soon as all of the tree work has been finished. Your tree surgeon should then prepare and sign off a certificate of work, a copy of which will be handed to you. This is particularly important where trees covered by a protection order are concerned. If any public spaces required safety measures, this can be removed and paths and roads will be re-opened to the public.
If you've got any complaints about or issues with the work, you should get them rectified straight away by first of all taking them up with your tree surgeon. If there is any further dispute, and your tree surgeon is a registered member of a trade association, you can get advice and guidance from the Arboricultural Association or the International Society of Arboriculture in order to reach an acceptable conclusion.
Local Bath tree surgery services will most likely have the telephone dialling code 01225 and the postcode BA1. They will operate in Bath itself, as well as nearby areas like Limpley Stoke, Keynsham, Batheaston, Widcombe, Bathford, South Stoke, Combe Down, Bathwick, Corston, Englishcombe, Neston, Larkhall, Twerton, Weston, Southdown, Bradford on Avon, and these postcodes: BA1 0TL, BA1 0PJ, BA1 0JQ, BA1 0JL, BA1 0TE, BA1 0NQ, BA1 0BR, BA1 0SF, BA1 0JR, BA1 0PZ.
For this type of assistance it is certainly wise to hire a reputable local tree surgeon. Bath property owners can benefit from the expertise and knowledge that a fully trained professional can offer.
Protecting Shrubs & Trees in the Wintertime
Protecting your trees and shrubs in winter is maybe a measure that you've not thought that much about, possibly presuming that the winter weather conditions in Bath are not harsh enough to justify this. In fact, even shrubs, trees and plants that we usually think of as hardy, can benefit from a bit of added protection in the colder winter season.
Obviously where trees are involved it is high winds that can be the biggest problem and although the majority of trees will have shed their leaves come winter, they might still be a risk of damage in windy weather. If a tree in your garden is swaying precariously in the wind, or has been damaged by stormy weather, a local tree surgeon must be contacted to carry out an inspection. Heavy snowfall can also cause branches to snap, so keep an eye out when this sort of weather is expected. Some trees and shrubs, in particular recently planted ones, might require a little protection from frost and ice, and a substantial layer of mulch will help to keep the soil frost-free around their bases.
Woodland Clearance Bath
The clearance of woodlands in the Bath area is a delicate process that can be impacted by various restrictions and regulations. A professional tree surgeon in Bath can provide a full end to end service that will observe all laws and covenants on the land, and also complete the project an eco-friendly way.
An extensive habitat survey will be carried out by the tree surgeon who'll also communicate with woodland authorities and organisations to make sure that your clearance is undertaken safely and legally. Mitigation strategies might have to be used if there is protected animals or plant species on the site; this could involve replanting of trees and relocation of animals, such as reptiles or bats to a different protected site.
It will be much more cost effective to call on a certified Bath tree care company to undertake your clearance work, because the mulching, chipping and felling equipment that is needed is very expensive.
Dutch Elm Disease
While Dutch Elm Disease (Ophiostoma novo-ulmi) isn't quite the issue that is was previously, over the past five decades or so it has wiped out millions of elm trees right through the British Isles. Accidentally imported into the UK from North America (Canada) in the nineteen sixties, Dutch Elm Disease (DED) is spread by the elm bark beetle (especially the Scolytus genus) and caused by the Ophiostoma novo-ulmi fungus.
Its rapid spread was ascribed mainly to elm products such as bark mulch, crates, saplings, and logs with the bark still attached, being transported throughout the United Kingdom. Dutch Elm Disease didn't only affect the British Isles, but also devastated elm stocks in continental Europe and North America, it is thought to have originated in Asia (possibly Japan).
The first symptoms of DED are:
- Clusters of leaves turning yellow, wilting and falling.
- Twigs with spots or rings in cross-section.
- Twigs that turn into a "shepherd's crook" shape.
- New shoots that die back from the tips.
It typically starts to show up in early summer.
Since there are now very few large elms in the UK countryside, the elm bark beetle's habitat has been pretty much removed, which has resulted in a slowing of the disease. New saplings have also been successfully propagated from elms that have so far proved to be resistant.
If you suspect that you may have elm trees on your property in Bath, that might be infected with Dutch Elm Disease, you can ask for a diagnosis from the Tree Health Diagnostic & Advisory Service, or get in touch with your local tree surgeon for guidance.
Stump Grinding
If you wish to get some stump grinding carried out, it is best to call in a company with the proper equipment and knowhow. Competent tree surgeons will be able to clear away every remnant of any size stump to twelve inches or more below ground level. Possessing the proper machinery means they will be able to remove roots and stumps within a few millimetres of buildings and walls while avoiding damage. The purpose built machinery can also eliminate tree stumps in narrow alleys and passageways. It can take a herculean effort to clear out the stumps of big trees, where the stump and main roots grow down to a significant depth, rendering the job even more problematic if you do not have the correct gear. (Tags: Stump Grinding Bath, Stump Removal Bath, Tree Stump Removal Bath)
The ISA - International Society of Arboriculture
Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, United States, the International Society of Arboriculture, normally referred to as simply the ISA is a non-profit, international organisation that fosters the awareness and benefits of trees. Providing qualifications for tree care specialists all around the globe, the ISA is a membership association that supports the professional practice of arboriculture.
With its focus firmly on education, research and technology, the ISA endorses best tree care practice by way of educational events, publications and services, allowing those who work in the tree care industry to develop their skills, knowledge and arboricultural expertise.
The AA (Arboricultural Association) was accepted as an associate organisation of the International Society of Arboriculture after signing a mid-2016 agreement with them. This substantially strengthened the relationship between the 2 and provided further opportunities for ISA members in Great Britain and Ireland. UK tree care professionals with AA or ISA membership are now able to reap the wide and varied benefits of being an integral part of a worldwide network. The International Society of Arboriculture has now got over 22000 members worldwide with professional affiliates and associate organisations in EXTRAremoval of storm damaged trees, site clearance Bath, fruit tree pruning, tree topping Bath, tree pest management, decompaction, tree felling, formative pruning, landscaping, damaged tree removal Bath, tree cutting, root flare exposure in Bath, tree removal, waste removal, tree maintenance, tree planning, tree lopping, dead wooding, tree transplanting, soil terraventing, tree reduction, root pruning Bath, coppicing, eco plug treatments, staking Bath, root grinding, cut sealing in Bath, crown removal, hedge reduction Bath, woodchipping in BathTEN, and the United Kingdom.
Conservation Areas & Tree Preservation Orders Bath
Before you do any serious work on your trees in Bath, you need to make certain there is not a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) on any of them. You local authority is the place to head to check whether there are any Tree Preservation Orders on your property's trees. A Tree Preservation Order prohibits the topping, uprooting, lopping, wilful destruction, cutting down, wilful damage or removal of any tree which is protected. Speak to your tree surgeon if you're anxious about this - they'll be able to check all this out for you.
If your home is within a conservation area in Bath, and want to conduct any work on a tree with a diameter of seventy five millimetres or more (1.5m from ground level), you have to give at least 6 wks notice in writing to your local council.
Invasive Tree Roots Bath
When they're growing too close to your home in Bath, some large trees have particularly intrusive root systems, and can cause issues. Lifting patios, blocked drains and damaged foundations, are some of the most widespread problems that you might run into. Some tree species that have very aggressive roots include willows, elms, maples and sycamores.
Keeping any new trees that you plant in your garden, as far as possible away from patios, your home, paths and your drainage system, is recommended to avoid future problems. You must speak to a tree surgeon in Bath, to see what can be done to rectify the situation, if pre-existing trees are growing too close to your home and are causing one or more of these problems.
This isn't really the kind of task you should attempt to do by yourself, and simply hacking off the problematic roots could kill the tree or significantly threaten it's health in the future. So that the damage is minimised, and the tree can still get ample water and food to survive and thrive, an experienced arborist in Bath will know which roots should be left in place, and which roots can be cut back.
Subterranean drainage systems are very attractive to tree and shrub roots, as they provide a continuous source of moisture and nutrients, and they can regularly suffer cracks and structural damage. Tiny roots can easily grow into a drainage system's joints, and when established grow into sizeable root balls which can lead to joint failure and blockages. Specialised root removal solutions will be provided by some Bath tree surgeons, who will use either high pressure water jetting, electro-mechanical equipment or manual rodding to remove the troublesome roots.
Essential Skills for Tree Surgeons in Bath
- Decent customer skills.
- The capacity to work efficiently with other folks.
- Have the ability to repair, maintain and use equipment and tools.
- Be aware of the dangers and complexities involved in all aspects of the work.
- To be able to complete common tasks on a hand-held device or computer.
- Good knowledge of public safety.
- Be patient and have the ability to remain focused in times of stress.
- Have the ability to work with your hands.
- To be meticulous and pay close attention to detail.
- Physical skills like movement and co-ordination.
- Be professional and able to complete tasks within a given time frame.
Emergency Call-Outs Bath
There may be occasions when you need to contact a tree surgeon in an emergency, if you have large trees growing in your garden in Bath. Tree surgeons in Bath generally expect to receive a huge spike in emergency calls when there are strong winds and storms, which is why most of them offer a 24/7 service for this eventuality. Although the odds of a whole tree falling down are low, there is more likelihood of branches snapping off and tumbling to the ground below, when the weather is windy. Prevention is certainly preferable to having to handle the consequences, and typical problems that can result from falling branches and tree limbs include splintered sheds, damaged fences, cracked greenhouses and busted garden furniture.
When large branches break of and crash onto public paths, roads and railway tracks, the local authorities in the Bath area will also sometimes need emergency tree surgery services.
Even when the emergency work has been done, a tree that has lost branches may need to be "re-balanced", and this may be done for aesthetic reasons or because the tree now appears lopsided, with the weight unevenly distributed, quite possibly resulting in additional concerns. A local Bath tree surgeon who provides emergency services should be brought in to handle all of these issues, and you shouldn't attempt to sort them out on your own. (Tags: Emergency Call-Outs Bath, Emergency Tree Care Bath, Emergency Tree Surgery Bath, Emergency Tree Services Bath).
Management of Vegetation
Whilst most householders in Bath will assume that tree surgeons only focus on the removal and care of trees, that is really not the case, since the majority of tree surgeons are also happy to deal with overgrown gardens and land that is clogged up with proliferating plant growth. Often tree care experts will be happy to cut down bushes, shrubs, overgrown vegetation and weeds which may be taking hold close to garages, sheds, buildings, drives or paths, and generally creating a nuisance. If you are to maintain your precious garden properly then all this excessive growth ought to be eradicated frequently, and if you have the inclination and time then this is something that you might tackle yourself if you're reasonably fit, or you can ask a tree surgeon to come annually to keep it under control. Vegetation control is a must if you are going to have safe and easy entry to every area of your property and if this isn't done the vegetation and plants can very quickly become a menace and take away the enjoyment of your garden. Apart from anything else the garden will also look a lot better when maintained properly.
Tree Surgery Tasks Bath
Bath tree surgeons will likely help you with removal of storm damaged trees, site clearance Bath, fruit tree pruning, tree topping Bath, tree pest management, decompaction, tree felling, formative pruning, landscaping, damaged tree removal Bath, tree cutting, root flare exposure in Bath, tree removal, waste removal, tree maintenance, tree planning, tree lopping, dead wooding, tree transplanting, soil terraventing, tree reduction, root pruning Bath, coppicing, eco plug treatments, staking Bath, root grinding, cut sealing in Bath, crown removal, hedge reduction Bath, woodchipping in Bath and other tree surgeon services in Bath, Somerset. Listed are just some of the duties that are handled by a local tree surgeon. Bath professionals will let you know their full range of services.
Tree Surgeons Nearby
Also find: Bathford tree surgeon, Bathwick tree surgeon, Englishcombe tree surgeon, Bradford on Avon tree surgeon, South Stoke tree surgeon, Twerton tree surgeon, Widcombe tree surgeon, Limpley Stoke tree surgeon, Batheaston tree surgeon, Corston tree surgeon, Southdown tree surgeon, Combe Down tree surgeon, Weston tree surgeon and more. All of these places are serviced by tree care companies. Home and property owners in these localities can get price quotes for tree surgery by clicking here.
Tree Care Services Bath
- Bath Tree Shaping
- Bath Tree Planning
- Bath Tree Transplanting
- Bath Air-Spading
- Bath Tree Lopping
- Bath Tree Replanting
- Bath Crown Raising
- Bath Woodchipping
- Bath Crown Cleaning
- Bath Crown Thinning
- Bath Tree Inspections
- Bath Woodland Management
- Bath Arboriculture
- Bath Crown Reduction
More Bath Trades: Needless to say, whenever you are having tree surgery done in Bath, Somerset, you'll likely be in need of other garden related services, and together with a tree surgeon in Bath, Somerset, you could additionally need grass cutting services in Bath, garden shed installation in Bath, garden clearance in Bath, garden pond builders in Bath, fence fitters in Bath, local SKIP HIRE in Bath, soil irrigation in Bath, garden planning and design in Bath, weeding in Bath, topiary in Bath, waste removal in Bath, driveways in Bath, patio installation in Bath, hard landscaping in Bath, decking fitters in Bath, artificial grass installers in Bath, and other different Bath tradespeople.
To obtain local information regarding Bath, Somerset look here
Tree Surgery BA1 area, (dialling code 01225).
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