In some situations, trees require a more detailed inspection to accurately determine their structural integrity, root health, or physiological condition. These advanced investigations go beyond a standard ground-level survey and provide the data needed to make informed, defensible management decisions. They are typically commissioned when visible defects, cavities, fungal fruiting bodies or site changes suggest potential internal or root-related issues.
A detailed inspection is recommended when a standard ground-level survey cannot fully determine a tree’s condition. This often includes cases where defects, cavities, fungal fruiting bodies, storm damage, or site changes suggest there may be hidden structural or root-related issues. These advanced assessments provide the deeper insight needed to make safe, defensible management decisions.
We use a combination of specialist techniques depending on the issue and the tree’s location. These may include aerial (climbing) inspections, drone surveys, sonic tomography, micro-drilling, and air spade root investigations. Each method targets specific concerns—such as internal decay, canopy defects or root disruption—and allows us to build a complete, evidence-based picture of the tree’s condition.
Most methods are non-invasive, such as drone imagery, sonic tomography and air spade root investigations. Where invasive techniques like micro-drilling are used, they are extremely small-scale and carefully targeted to minimise impact. These methods are only recommended when the diagnostic value outweighs the minimal disturbance caused.
You will receive a clear, professionally presented report including mapped tree locations, photographs, diagnostic results, and practical recommendations for management, remedial work or further monitoring. Where advanced instruments are used, you’ll also receive supporting outputs such as 3D tomography models or drilling profiles, giving you clear evidence to support decision-making and planning compliance.
Our works are carried out to modern arboriculture standards and the care of trees is our main priority.
All work is carried out to nationally recognised standards including BS3998:2010 and The European Tree Pruning Guide.
We consider our climbers to be among the best in the South-West and all works are carried out swiftly but safely. We operate in accordance with all current Health & Safety legislation and we are fully insured.
At Devon Tree Services, we are a dedicated team of tree specialists providing tree surgery in Torbay, Plymouth, Exeter and the surrounding areas.
Our company recognises the importance of making a full and lasting commitment to reducing the greenhouse gas emissions from our activities, in support of the wider commitment of the world to limit global temperature increases and the impact on the planet.
At Devon Tree Services, we believe in clear communication, expert advice, and safe, efficient workmanship. Whether you’re a homeowner or managing a large estate, our process is designed to make your experience smooth from first contact to final clean-up. Here’s how we work:
We visit your site, assess the job, and offer expert advice.
You’ll receive a clear, no-obligation quote with full details.
Our team carries out the work safely and efficiently.
We leave the site tidy and dispose of all waste responsibly.
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