Arborist Reports Explained: What You Need to Know

A comprehensive guide to arborist reports in Adelaide \u2014 when you need one, what types are available, what they include, and how much they cost.

What Is an Arborist Report?

An arborist report is a professional assessment of one or more trees prepared by a qualified arborist. The report documents the tree's species, size, health, structural condition and any risks it poses. It also provides professional recommendations for management, such as pruning, monitoring or removal.

Arborist reports serve as the primary evidence base for council development applications involving significant trees in South Australia. They are also used for insurance claims, property due diligence, construction planning and dispute resolution between neighbours.

When Do You Need an Arborist Report?

Common situations that require or benefit from an arborist report:

Significant tree removal: Required for any development application to remove a tree with a trunk circumference of 2m+ at 1m above ground.
Property development: Councils often require tree assessments when development applications may affect existing trees on or near the site.
Insurance claims: Documenting storm damage, tree failure or property damage caused by trees.
Pre-purchase property assessment: Identifying potential tree-related issues before buying a property.
Neighbour disputes: Providing independent professional assessment when trees are causing conflict between neighbours.
Tree health concerns: Assessing whether a tree is diseased, structurally compromised or poses a safety risk.

Types of Arborist Reports

Basic Visual Assessment (Level 1-2)

A ground-level visual inspection documenting tree species, approximate size, general health and any obvious defects. Suitable for routine tree management decisions and minor council enquiries. Cost: $150\u2013$300 per tree.

Standard Arborist Report (Level 2-3)

A detailed assessment with formal written report suitable for council development applications. Includes species identification, precise measurements, health and structural assessment, risk evaluation and management recommendations. This is the type most commonly required for significant tree removal applications. Cost: $300\u2013$800.

Comprehensive Assessment (Level 5)

An advanced assessment using specialised diagnostic tools such as resistograph (drill resistance) testing, sonic tomography, or aerial inspection. Used for high-value trees, complex risk assessments or when internal decay is suspected. Includes quantified risk analysis. Cost: $800\u2013$2,000+.

What Does an Arborist Report Include?

A standard arborist report for a council application typically includes:

Tree species identification (common and botanical name)
Trunk circumference, height and canopy spread measurements
Health assessment (foliage density, dieback, disease symptoms)
Structural assessment (trunk integrity, branch attachments, lean)
Root zone assessment (visible root damage, soil conditions)
Risk rating and target assessment (what could be damaged if the tree fails)
Useful life expectancy estimate
Whether the tree qualifies as significant under SA legislation
Professional recommendation (retain, prune, monitor or remove)
Photographs and site plan
Arborist qualifications and professional memberships

Arborist Report Costs in Adelaide

Arborist report pricing in Adelaide depends on the type of assessment and number of trees:

Basic Assessment

$150\u2013$300

per tree

Standard Report

$300\u2013$800

most common

Level 5 Advanced

$800\u2013$2,000+

complex cases

For a detailed cost breakdown, see our arborist report cost guide.

How to Get an Arborist Report

Find a qualified arborist. Use our free arborist finder tool to connect with qualified arborists in your area.
Explain the purpose. Tell the arborist why you need the report (council application, insurance, etc.) so they include the right information.
Get a quote. Most arborists will provide a quote over the phone or after a brief site visit. Compare quotes from 2-3 arborists.
Schedule the inspection. The arborist will visit your property to inspect the tree(s) and gather measurements and observations.
Receive the report. The written report is typically delivered as a PDF within 3\u201310 business days.

Arborist Report Services→Arborist Report Cost Guide→Council Approval Guide→Find a Tree Remover→Tree Removal Services→Tree Preservation Orders→

Frequently Asked Questions

Arborist report costs in Adelaide vary based on the type and complexity. A basic visual tree assessment ranges from $150 to $300 per tree. A standard arborist report suitable for council development applications costs $300 to $800. A comprehensive Level 5 (advanced) assessment with detailed risk quantification can cost $800 to $2,000+. Most residential tree removal applications need a standard report.

Most arborists can complete a site inspection within 1 to 2 weeks of booking. The written report is typically delivered 3 to 10 business days after the inspection, depending on complexity and the arborist’s workload. For urgent matters (storm damage, imminent hazard), many arborists offer expedited assessments. Allow at least 2 to 3 weeks total from booking to receiving the final report.

For council development applications in South Australia, the arborist should hold a minimum of a Certificate III in Arboriculture (AHC30820), though councils prefer arborists with a Diploma of Arboriculture (AHC50520) or higher for complex assessments. The arborist should also be a member of a professional body such as Arboriculture Australia. Check with your council for their specific qualification requirements.

The levels refer to the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) system. A Level 1 is a limited visual assessment (walk-by). Level 2 is a basic visual assessment from the ground. Level 3 is a detailed visual assessment. Level 4 involves advanced assessment techniques (such as resistograph testing). Level 5 is a comprehensive assessment with detailed risk analysis. Most residential applications require Level 2 or 3.

Standard maintenance pruning of a significant tree (up to 30% canopy removal, following AS 4373) does not require development approval or an arborist report. However, if the pruning is more extensive or you are unsure whether it would damage the tree, an arborist assessment is recommended. Heavy pruning that could kill or seriously damage a significant tree requires development approval.

Potentially, but the requirements differ. Council reports focus on tree significance, amenity value and planning provisions. Insurance reports focus on damage causation, risk and liability. A thorough arborist report may address both, but you should inform your arborist upfront about all intended uses so they can include the relevant information in a single comprehensive report.

Need an Arborist Report in Adelaide?

Get free quotes from qualified arborists who can prepare professional reports for council applications, insurance claims and property assessments.

Find a Local Arborist Arborist Report Services