Certified reports.
Expert advice.
AQF Level 5 arborist reports and consultancy services for development applications, council submissions, insurance claims and compliance requirements across Greater Sydney.
Reports you can rely on
The Tree Guardian produces certified arboricultural reports prepared by AQF Level 5 qualified arborists — the highest standard required by councils and planning authorities across New South Wales. Our reports are clear, compliant and defensible.
Whether you need a report for a development application, a heritage tree assessment, an insurance claim or pre-purchase due diligence, we deliver thorough, impartial assessments that stand up to scrutiny.
Report types we provide
Comprehensive arboricultural reporting for every requirement — from development applications to heritage assessments.
Required for most Development Applications (DAs) across NSW councils, an AIA assesses how proposed works will affect nearby trees. Prepared in accordance with AS 4970-2009, it establishes Tree Protection Zones, evaluates retention feasibility and outlines construction measures to protect trees throughout the build. Without a compliant AIA, your DA is unlikely to be approved.
What's included
- Tree inventory, species ID and condition rating
- Structural Root Zone and Tree Protection Zone calculations
- Impact assessment against proposed works
- Retention and removal recommendations
- Construction methodology to protect retained trees
Using internationally recognised TRAQ methodology, our risk assessments evaluate the likelihood of structural failure and the severity of potential consequences for each tree. This report is critical for councils, body corporates, insurers and commercial property managers managing ongoing tree-related liability. Each tree receives a risk rating with clear, prioritised mitigation actions.
What's included
- Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) of structure and health
- Failure likelihood and consequence ratings
- Overall risk rating per tree (low / moderate / high)
- Recommended mitigation actions and timelines
- Priority management schedule
A systematic census of every tree on a site or precinct, documenting species, dimensions, health and structural condition in a structured format. Used by local councils, government land managers and commercial operators to plan, prioritise and budget for tree maintenance. Deliverable as a spreadsheet, PDF or GIS-compatible dataset depending on your requirements.
What's included
- Full species identification and dimensional measurements
- Health and structural condition ratings per tree
- GPS mapping and photographic documentation
- Maintenance and management recommendations
- Prioritised action schedule with urgency ratings
Specialist assessments for trees of cultural, historical or ecological significance — including trees listed under heritage schedules, Voluntary Planning Agreements or local environmental plans. Our reports are prepared to meet State Heritage Office, National Trust and local council requirements, providing a thorough case for conservation, management or, where necessary, carefully justified removal.
What's included
- Cultural, historical and ecological significance assessment
- Current health, structure and longevity evaluation
- Risk assessment and management options
- Conservation and maintenance recommendations
- Compliance statement against heritage listing conditions
An independent arboricultural due diligence report for property buyers, identifying tree-related risks, maintenance liabilities and council protection orders before you exchange contracts. Many buyers are unaware that a single protected tree can restrict development, generate significant ongoing costs or create serious liability — our pre-purchase report gives you the full picture before it's too late.
What's included
- Tree identification, condition and risk assessment
- Council protection status and permit requirements
- Development restriction implications
- Estimated maintenance liability over time
- Clear summary of risks and recommended actions
A detailed procedural document specifying the exact methodology, protective measures and supervision requirements for construction works near trees. Required by councils and Tier 1 contractors as a condition of development consent, the AMS ensures retained trees are actively protected throughout the construction program — not just noted on a plan.
What's included
- Tree Protection Zone specifications and fencing design
- Root pruning and protection methodology
- Soil compaction prevention measures
- Arborist supervision requirements and hold points
- Post-construction monitoring and recovery plan
From enquiry to delivery
A clear, efficient process so you always know where your report is at.
Contact us with your requirements. We'll confirm the report type needed, scope of works and provide a fee proposal — usually within 24 hours.
An AQF Level 5 arborist visits the site to inspect, measure and assess all relevant trees. We record species, condition, dimensions and any notable defects.
Our arborist compiles the findings into a fully referenced report, including tree schedules, photos, plans and all recommendations required for your submission.
Your completed, certified report is delivered digitally within 10–14 business days of the site inspection. We're available to answer any follow-up questions from your council or solicitor.
⚡ Urgent reports available — contact us to discuss timeframesReports that hold up
Our arborist reports are prepared by AQF Level 5 qualified professionals with years of experience working with Sydney councils, developers and government agencies. We know what planners and assessors look for.
The highest qualification required for complex arboricultural assessments and certifications in NSW.
Reports are formatted and referenced to meet current NSW council and planning authority requirements.
Trusted by NSW government agencies, major developers and Tier 1 contractors across Greater Sydney.
Our assessments are objective, evidence-based and written to withstand scrutiny from councils, solicitors and planners.
Need an arborist report?
Get in touch and we'll confirm the report type and provide a fee proposal within 24 hours.