A mortgage lender may request a pre-purchase tree assessment to make sure that the properties concerned are not only structurally sound but also safe and secure for the occupants. One potential hazard that is often overlooked is trees. Trees can add beauty and value to a property, but they can also be a liability if they are not properly managed or are in poor health. That's where a pre-purchase tree survey comes in.

A pre-purchase tree survey is an inspection of the trees on a property to assess their health, stability, and potential risks. It is recommended that such a survey be carried out by a qualified arborist or tree consultant. The survey should cover all trees on the property, including those on the boundary, neighbouring trees, and any nearby trees that could pose a risk.

The survey report will typically include the following information:

Tree species identification: The surveyor will identify each tree on the property and record its species, age, size, and condition.
Tree health assessment: The surveyor will assess the health of each tree, looking for signs of disease, decay, or damage.
Tree stability assessment: The surveyor will assess the stability of each tree, looking for signs of leaning, root damage, or structural weakness.
Risk assessment: The surveyor will assess the potential risk posed by each tree, considering factors such as its location, size, and health.

Based on the survey report, the mortgage lender can make an informed decision about whether the trees on the property pose a risk that could affect the value of the property or the safety of the occupants. If the survey identifies any significant risks, the mortgage lender may require the property owner to take action to mitigate the risk, such as pruning or removing trees.

In conclusion, a pre-purchase tree survey is a valuable tool for mortgage lenders to identify potential risks and liabilities associated with the trees on a property. It is recommended that mortgage lenders engage a qualified tree consultant to carry out such a survey to ensure that they have the most accurate and reliable information to make an informed decision.