What Is an Arborist Report?
An arborist report is a professional document prepared by a qualified arborist that assesses the condition, health, and risk profile of one or more trees. Think of it as a medical report for your trees — it gives an objective, expert opinion on what's happening with a tree and what should be done about it.
These reports are used by homeowners, developers, councils, and insurance companies to make informed decisions about tree management. In Brisbane, an arborist report is often required before council will approve tree removal or significant pruning.
A typical arborist report includes the tree species identification, dimensions (height, trunk diameter, canopy spread), health assessment, structural condition, risk rating, and specific recommendations for management.
Types of Arborist Reports (Levels 1 to 5)
Arborist assessments are categorised into levels based on their complexity and the tools used. Understanding these levels helps you request the right type of report for your needs.
Level 1 — Basic Visual Assessment
A ground-level visual inspection of the tree. The arborist assesses overall health, structure, and any obvious defects. This is the most common type of report for homeowners seeking council approval for tree removal.
Typical cost: $300 – $800 | Best for: Single tree removal applications, general health checks
Level 2 — Detailed Assessment
Builds on the Level 1 assessment with the use of diagnostic tools such as resistographs (to measure internal wood decay), sonic tomography, or aerial inspections. Used when a more detailed understanding of internal condition is needed.
Typical cost: $500 – $1,500 | Best for: Trees with suspected internal decay, large or valuable trees
Level 3 — Advanced Assessment
Involves advanced diagnostic techniques and may include root zone investigation, biomechanical analysis, and detailed risk quantification. Used for high-value trees or complex situations.
Typical cost: $1,000 – $3,000 | Best for: Heritage trees, litigation, complex risk scenarios
Level 5 — Consulting Arborist Report
A comprehensive assessment often required for development applications. Covers multiple trees across a property, includes tree protection plans, impact assessments, and retention recommendations. Prepared by a consulting arborist with advanced qualifications.
Typical cost: $2,000 – $5,000+ | Best for: Development applications, subdivision proposals, large-scale projects
For a detailed look at Level 5 reports and when developers need them, see our guide to Level 5 arborist reports.
When Do You Need an Arborist Report?
There are several situations where an arborist report is either required or strongly recommended:
Council Tree Removal Applications
Most Brisbane councils require or strongly recommend an arborist report when you apply to remove a protected tree. It provides the evidence council needs to make a decision. See our council approval guide.
Development Applications
If you are building, renovating, or subdividing, council will almost certainly require a Level 5 arborist report documenting all significant trees on the property and proposing protection or offset measures.
Insurance Claims
After storm damage, your insurer may request an arborist report to confirm the tree was already in poor condition or that the damage warrants a claim. Having a report can streamline the claims process.
Neighbour Disputes
When a tree is causing issues between neighbours — such as root damage, overhanging branches, or shade concerns — an arborist report provides an independent, expert opinion that can help resolve the dispute.
Pre-Purchase Property Assessments
Buying a property with large trees? An arborist report can identify potential risks, upcoming maintenance costs, and any trees that may need removal in the near future.
What Is Included in an Arborist Report?
A professional arborist report typically includes the following:
- Tree identification: Species name, location on property, tag number
- Dimensions: Height, trunk diameter (DBH), canopy spread, and tree protection zone radius
- Health assessment: Vigour, canopy condition, presence of disease or pest damage
- Structural assessment: Trunk and branch stability, root plate condition, lean, co-dominant stems
- Risk rating: Assessment of the likelihood and consequence of tree failure
- Recommendations: Retain, remove, prune, monitor, or further investigate
- Photos and site plan: Visual evidence and mapping of tree locations
What Does an Arborist Report Cost in Brisbane?
Costs vary depending on the report type, number of trees, and complexity of the site. Here is a general guide for Brisbane:
Single tree (Level 1)
$300 – $800
Multiple trees (Level 1)
$500 – $1,500
Detailed assessment (Level 2)
$500 – $2,000
Development report (Level 5)
$2,000 – $5,000+
For a more detailed cost breakdown, visit our arborist report cost guide.