When a tree’s condition raises questions, whether due to safety, development, or council regulations, a certified arborist report can provide the clarity needed. These reports are often required by councils, insurance providers, or body corporates before work can begin on or around significant trees. At O’Brien’s Tree Care, we provide accurate, reliable arborist reports backed by formal qualifications and real-world expertise.
A certified arborist report is a detailed written assessment prepared by a qualified arborist. It evaluates the condition, safety, and structural integrity of one or more trees on a property. The purpose of the report is to provide factual, expert documentation that informs decision-making, whether that’s for removing a tree, managing risk, or supporting a development application.
These reports are commonly used by property owners, schools, body corporates, and developers. In most cases, councils will only accept assessments from a certified arborist as part of planning or removal requests.
A quality arborist report includes more than just a tree’s appearance. It provides a comprehensive tree inspection based on industry standards and arboricultural knowledge.
Typical inclusions:
These assessments are objective and evidence-based, supported by photographs and technical observations, not just a visual opinion. This ensures your report stands up to council scrutiny or legal challenge if required.
Only a certified arborist has the training and qualifications to provide reports that are legally valid and technically sound. At O’Brien’s Tree Care, we are fully qualified with a Certificate III in Arboriculture, which is the industry standard for arborist certification in Australia.
This level of certification means we:
Unqualified reports often lead to delays, rejected applications, or decisions based on incorrect assessments. That’s why it’s critical to work with a certified arborist when documentation is required.
Certified arborist reports are necessary in many situations where trees intersect with safety, property, or legal requirements. Below are the most common reasons people request them:
Each of these cases benefits from the authority and credibility of a qualified arborist inspection and report. A reliable report can prevent costly mistakes, speed up approvals, and give peace of mind to property owners and managers alike.
A certified arborist report carries significant value beyond just ticking a compliance box. For property owners, developers, or strata managers, a professionally prepared report provides clarity, legal standing, and peace of mind. Councils and insurers are more likely to accept documentation from a qualified arborist, reducing the chances of delays, rejections, or additional costs.
These reports also serve as valuable planning tools. Whether managing a tree population over time or budgeting for future works, having a clear, evidence-backed report makes decision-making easier. Hazards can be identified early, mitigation strategies proposed, and long-term care mapped out, all based on expert arboricultural assessment.
At O’Brien’s Tree Care, we take a detailed and methodical approach to every arborist report. Here’s what you can expect:
Our goal is to make the process easy, transparent, and fully compliant with council or insurance requirements.
Whether you’re managing a residential block, school grounds, or commercial site, a certified arborist report can give you the clarity and documentation you need. At O’Brien’s Tree Care, our certified team brings experience, integrity, and industry recognition to every report we prepare.
You can talk with a professional arborist by calling 0431 740 088 or clicking here.
Reports typically include tree species, condition, structural stability, risk assessment, and management recommendations, all supported by photos and expert notes.
In most council areas, yes. A certified arborist report is often a required part of the tree removal application process.
Look for a Certificate III in Arboriculture or above. You can also ask whether the arborist’s reports are accepted by your local council.
Absolutely. These reports are commonly used for insurance claims and risk assessments following severe weather events