Arborist Report Costs Northern Beaches: Complete Guide (2026)

What Is an Arborist Report and Why Might You Need One?

An arborist report is a professional document prepared by a qualified arborist that assesses the health, condition, structural integrity, and risk of one or more trees on a property. On the Northern Beaches, arborist reports are commonly required for council tree removal applications, development applications (DAs), insurance claims, tree disputes between neighbours, and pre-purchase property assessments.

Whether you need to remove a tree in Mona Vale, are planning renovations on your Manly property, or want a professional opinion on a tree that concerns you in Narrabeen, understanding arborist report costs helps you budget effectively and choose the right service for your needs.

This guide covers the different types of arborist reports available on the Northern Beaches, what they cost in 2026, what is included, and how to get the best value from your report.

Types of Arborist Reports and Their Costs

Not all arborist reports are the same. The type of report you need — and its associated cost — depends on why you need it. Here is a breakdown of the main report types and their 2026 pricing on the Northern Beaches.

Basic Tree Assessment Report — $350 to $500

A basic tree assessment is the most common and affordable type of arborist report. It covers a single tree or a small number of trees and provides a professional opinion on the tree's health, structural condition, and any recommended actions.

• What it covers: Species identification, health assessment, structural condition, basic risk evaluation, and management recommendations
• When you need it: Council tree removal applications, general tree health concerns, neighbour disputes about a specific tree
• Turnaround time: 5 to 10 business days
• Number of trees: 1 to 3 trees

This is the report type most Northern Beaches homeowners need when they want to remove or significantly prune a tree and require council approval. See our tree permit guide for details on when council approval is required.

DA Arborist Report (Development Application) — $500 to $800

A DA arborist report is a more detailed document required as part of a development application submitted to Northern Beaches Council. It assesses the impact of proposed development on existing trees and provides recommendations for tree retention, removal, and protection during construction.

• What it covers: Tree survey and mapping, species identification, health and structural assessment, Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) calculations, Structural Root Zone (SRZ) calculations, impact assessment, tree retention recommendations, tree protection specifications for construction
• When you need it: Home renovations, extensions, new builds, pool installations, driveway construction, and any DA where trees are within or adjacent to the development footprint
• Turnaround time: 7 to 14 business days
• Number of trees: Typically all trees on the property and neighbouring trees within influence of the development

Multi-Tree Property Assessment — $800 to $1,200

A multi-tree property assessment is a comprehensive survey of all trees on a property. This type of report is commonly requested by property owners who want a full picture of their tree assets, including health, risk, and maintenance priorities.

• What it covers: Survey of all trees on the property, individual assessment of each tree, risk ratings, maintenance schedule, priority recommendations, and a tree inventory with mapping
• When you need it: Pre-purchase property assessments, strata or body corporate tree management plans, estate planning, insurance risk assessments, and proactive property maintenance
• Turnaround time: 10 to 14 business days
• Number of trees: All trees on the property (typically 10 to 30 trees for a standard residential block)

Specialist Reports (TRAQ, Root Mapping) — $1,000 to $2,000

Specialist arborist reports address specific technical questions that go beyond a standard visual assessment. These are the most expensive type of arborist report and are typically only needed for complex or contentious situations.

• TRAQ assessment (Tree Risk Assessment Qualification): $1,000 to $1,500 — a detailed, internationally recognised risk assessment methodology used for high-value trees or litigation
• Root mapping (ground-penetrating radar or air excavation): $1,200 to $2,000 — used to determine the exact location and extent of root systems, typically for construction planning or infrastructure damage assessment
• Timber assessment (decay detection): $800 to $1,200 — using resistograph or tomography equipment to assess internal wood condition

Specialist reports are most commonly required for trees subject to legal disputes, development on properties with significant trees, or insurance claims involving high-value properties.

When Do You Need an Arborist Report on the Northern Beaches?

Understanding when an arborist report is required — and when it is simply recommended — helps you avoid unnecessary costs while ensuring you meet your obligations.

Council Tree Removal and Pruning

Northern Beaches Council does not always require an arborist report for tree removal applications, but having one significantly increases your chances of approval. An arborist report is particularly valuable when:

• The tree appears healthy and the reason for removal is not immediately obvious
• The tree is a significant native species
• The tree is in a heritage conservation area
• You have been previously refused and are reapplying
• The tree is subject to a Tree Preservation Order

For full details on council permit requirements, see our Northern Beaches tree permit guide.

Development Applications

If your proposed development (renovation, extension, pool, driveway, or new build) is within or near existing trees, Northern Beaches Council will almost certainly require a DA arborist report as part of your application. This is a mandatory requirement, not optional.

Tree Disputes Between Neighbours

Tree disputes are common on the Northern Beaches, particularly regarding overhanging branches, root damage, and views. An arborist report provides an independent, professional opinion that can help resolve disputes before they escalate to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT).

Insurance Claims

If a tree on your property has caused damage — or you believe a tree is likely to cause damage — your insurance company may request an arborist report. This is particularly common after storm events in coastal suburbs. The report provides professional evidence of the tree's condition and the cause of any damage.

Pre-Purchase Property Assessments

Buying a property on the Northern Beaches? A pre-purchase arborist assessment can identify potential tree-related issues before you commit. This includes trees that may need costly removal, trees with root systems that could damage foundations, and trees that may restrict future development plans. Given the cost of tree removal on the Northern Beaches, identifying these issues before purchase can save thousands of dollars.

What Is Included in an Arborist Report?

A professional arborist report should contain several standard elements, regardless of the report type. Here is what to expect.

Species Identification

Accurate identification of the tree species using both common and botanical names. This is important because different species have different growth characteristics, risk profiles, and levels of protection under Northern Beaches Council regulations.

Health Assessment

A thorough evaluation of the tree's health, including:

• Canopy density and vigour
• Leaf colour, size, and condition
• Presence of disease, pests, or decay
• Root plate condition and stability
• Trunk integrity (wounds, cavities, cracks)

Risk Rating and Structural Assessment

An assessment of the tree's structural integrity and the risk it poses to people and property. This includes evaluation of:

• Lean and weight distribution
• Branch attachment strength
• Deadwood extent
• Target assessment (what would be impacted if the tree or a branch failed)
• Overall risk rating (typically low, moderate, high, or extreme)

Recommendations

Professional recommendations for tree management, which may include:

• Retention with ongoing monitoring
• Specific pruning works (crown thinning, deadwood removal, crown reduction)
• Remedial treatment (pest or disease management)
• Removal with justification
• Replacement planting recommendations

Supporting Documentation

A quality report should also include:

• Photographic evidence of key observations
• Site plan showing tree locations
• The arborist's qualifications and insurance details
• Methodology and assessment standards referenced
• Date of inspection and report preparation

Northern Beaches Council Requirements for Arborist Reports

Northern Beaches Council has specific requirements for arborist reports submitted with applications. Meeting these requirements is essential to avoid delays or rejections.

Arborist Qualifications

Council requires reports to be prepared by arborists with appropriate qualifications:

• Tree removal applications: Minimum AQF Level 5 (Diploma of Arboriculture) preferred
• DA arborist reports: AQF Level 5 (Diploma of Arboriculture) mandatory
• Specialist assessments: Relevant specialist qualifications (e.g., TRAQ certification)

Reports from arborists without the required qualifications may be rejected or given less weight, potentially delaying your application by weeks.

Report Standards

Council expects reports to follow recognised industry standards, including:

• AS 4970-2009 Protection of Trees on Development Sites (for DA reports)
• Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) methodology
• Current best practice guidelines from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)

How to Get the Best Value from Your Arborist Report

Arborist reports represent a significant investment, so it makes sense to maximise the value you receive. Here are practical tips for Northern Beaches property owners.

1. Choose the Right Report Type

Do not pay for a specialist report when a basic assessment will suffice. Conversely, do not try to save money with a basic report when your DA requires a comprehensive tree survey. Ask your arborist what level of report is appropriate for your specific situation.

2. Bundle the Report with Tree Work

Many arborists offer a discount on the report fee if you also engage them for the recommended tree work. At Affordable Tree Services Northern Beaches, we can provide both the arborist report and the subsequent tree removal or pruning work, streamlining the process and often reducing overall costs.

3. Provide Clear Information Upfront

Help your arborist work efficiently by providing:

• The specific reason you need the report
• Any council correspondence or previous applications
• Development plans if applicable
• Clear access to all trees that need assessment
• Any known history of the trees (planting dates, previous works)

4. Plan Ahead for Standard Turnaround

Express or urgent turnaround (2 to 3 business days) typically adds 30 to 50% to the standard report fee. If your project timeline allows, opting for standard turnaround (7 to 14 business days) saves a significant amount. Plan your application timeline accordingly to avoid paying for expedited service.

5. Verify Qualifications Before Commissioning

Before paying for a report, confirm that the arborist holds the qualifications required by council. An AQF Level 3 report submitted where council requires AQF Level 5 means you will need to pay for a second report — doubling your cost.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arborist Report Costs

How much does an arborist report cost on the Northern Beaches?

Arborist report costs on the Northern Beaches range from $350 to $2,000 depending on the type of report. A basic tree assessment costs $350 to $500, a DA arborist report costs $500 to $800, a multi-tree property assessment costs $800 to $1,200, and specialist reports (TRAQ, root mapping) cost $1,000 to $2,000. Visit our arborist reports page for more information.

Do I always need an arborist report to remove a tree?

Not always, but it is strongly recommended for any tree that requires council approval. Northern Beaches Council does not mandate an arborist report for every tree removal application, but applications supported by a professional report have a significantly higher approval rate. For exempt species (like Cocos Palms) or dead trees with clear evidence, you may not need a report at all.

Do I need a specific type of report for my DA?

Yes. Development applications require a DA arborist report that includes tree survey, TPZ and SRZ calculations, impact assessment, and tree protection specifications. This is a more detailed (and more expensive) report than a basic tree assessment. The report must be prepared by an AQF Level 5 qualified arborist.

How long does it take to get an arborist report?

Standard turnaround for most arborist reports is 7 to 14 business days from the date of the on-site inspection. Express turnaround (2 to 3 business days) is available from most arborists but costs 30 to 50% more. The inspection itself typically takes 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the number of trees and report type.

How do I choose the right arborist for my report?

Look for an arborist with AQF Level 5 qualifications (Diploma of Arboriculture), current public liability insurance, experience preparing reports for Northern Beaches Council, and a good track record of successful applications. Ask for sample reports to assess the quality and thoroughness of their work. Experience with your local council is particularly valuable, as different councils have different expectations.

How long is an arborist report valid?

Most councils, including Northern Beaches Council, consider arborist reports valid for approximately 12 months from the date of the on-site inspection. After that, the tree's condition may have changed sufficiently to require a new assessment. If your project timeline extends beyond 12 months, you may need an updated report. Some DA conditions require updated reports at specific project milestones.

Get a Professional Arborist Report Today

A well-prepared arborist report is an investment that pays for itself through smoother council applications, better-informed property decisions, and professional documentation of tree conditions. On the Northern Beaches, where council regulations are comprehensive and tree-related costs can be significant, having the right report from a qualified professional is essential.

At Affordable Tree Services Northern Beaches, our AQF Level 5 qualified arborists have extensive experience preparing reports for Northern Beaches Council. We understand what council assessors look for and prepare thorough, professional reports that give your application the best chance of approval. We service all Northern Beaches suburbs including Mona Vale, Manly, Narrabeen, Dee Why, Frenchs Forest, and all surrounding areas.

Contact us today or call 0425 350 004 to discuss your arborist report needs. We can advise on the right report type for your situation and provide a clear quote before any work begins.