Need an Ecology Survey?
Use RenKap
Simply upload your site on the RenKap platform to:
- Reduce your management time by 90%
- Instantly receive a minimum of 3 quotes from our vetted suppliers
- Receive one digital dashboard with survey recommendations
- Quality reports every time guaranteed
Need an Ecology Survey?
Use RenKap
Simply upload your site on the RenKap platform to:
- Reduce your management time by 90%
- Instantly receive a minimum of 3 quotes from our vetted suppliers
- Receive one digital dashboard with survey recommendations
- Quality reports every time guaranteed
The only site investigation checklist you need
Download our site investigation checklist, which covers the 13 site investigation surveys you need to complete on every site. This includes a rundown of why you need each of them and at what stage throughout the project lifecycle.
What is an ecology survey?
An ecological survey (or Preliminary Ecology Appraisal – PEA) is the process whereby a proposed development site is assessed to establish any environmental impact the development may have. The ecology survey considers the site’s immediate environmental impact on existing habitats, and will help developers established the necessary next steps to ensure the development can continue.
Why is a ecology survey important?
An ecological survey is important because it helps developers identify any ecological constraints early on in the development.
Planning with the knowledge of any ecological restrictions will help you minimise any impact on biodiversity as well as identify the BAP (Biodiversity Action Plan) or protected species to help you avoid disturbing their habitat. Without this survey, you are at risk of large fines and even a criminal prosecution.
When is an ecology survey required?
An ecology survey will be required on any development where there is a risk of affecting the existing ecosystems or habitats of protected species. As a general rule, it will be required if any of the following is found on your site:
- Heathlands
- Lakes or bodies of water
- Ponds or ditches
- Woodland, scrub or hedgerows
- Parkland, pasture or meadows
- Complex tree structures, caves or cave like spaces
- Coastal habitats
- Large rural or suburban gardens,
- Derelict and dilapidated buildings
- Existing derelict buildings and farm buildings
How long does an ecology survey take?
The time it takes will depend on the size of the site and the existing biodiversity present. Some ecology surveys can be done in a matter of hours, with a report that usually follows a couple of days after the site visit.
How long is an ecology survey valid for?
An ecologist report is considered valid for 12-24 months depending on the species, site and ecological impact assessment. However, this may change and should be confirmed by a professional ecologist.
What is included in an ecology survey?
The Preliminary Ecology Appraisal (PEA) is an initial site visit to identify the potential presence of any protected species. Additionally the surveyors look out for potential risks such as invasive plants or other.
If the surveyor identifies the potential for protected species present then additional surveys will be required for the specific findings. For example they could recommend a reptile survey, bird survey, otter survey or other. These will each then need to be completed to satisfy planning and UK legislation.
At RenKap we also always recommend that a Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA) is conducted at the same time as the PEA. The PRA will identify the potential for bats on the site. If a risk is highlighted, bat surveys will be required.
It is worth doing the PRA and PEA during the same site visit as it is more cost effective that way.
What are the key pieces of information that suppliers need from a client to complete an ecology survey?
The key pieces of information would include:
- Site location
- Redline boundary (the perimeter of the site boundary)
- Site access instructions
- Access to the lofts for the Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA)
- A scope of survey (i.e. a brief of exactly what they need to include)
- Unencumbered access to the site
What are the key items that would affect the cost of an ecology survey?
The key factors that would affect the cost of the ecology survey would be the size of the site and the accessibility fo the site. For example a large empty field would be easier than a smaller site which is full of shrubs, trees, buildings and other. This all affects the time required to complete the works which increases the price.
How to identify competent ecology suppliers?
As a minimum they should:
- Abide by the construction, Design and Management Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015)
- Abide by the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
- Have an appropriate level of professional indemnity insurance (Ideally more than £5m)
- Have an internal quality assurance procedure
- Have suitably trained and quality staff
The RenKap platform has already pre-vetted the best UK suppliers so you don’t have to.
The only site investigation checklist you need
Download our site investigation checklist, which covers the 13 site investigation surveys you need to complete on every site. This includes a rundown of why you need each of them and at what stage throughout the project lifecycle.