What Is a Tree Protection Contractor?

A Tree Protection Contractor — often an Arborist or Tree Protection Specialist — is a qualified professional who ensures that trees on or near your site are protected during construction in accordance with council requirements and environmental regulations.



If your site includes significant trees or falls within a Tree Protection Zone (TPZ), engaging one of these specialists is typically a mandatory part of your approval or permit conditions.

What Does a Tree Protection Contractor Do?

Your Tree Protection Contractor will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a Tree Protection Contractor will:

  • Review your site and identify trees requiring protection
  • Install protective barriers (e.g. tree fencing or trunk guards)
  • Monitor and maintain protection measures during construction
  • Provide reports or documentation to your certifier or council
  • Respond to any Requests for Information (RFIs) relating to tree management
  • Remove or adjust protection measures when the project permits


They play a vital role in preventing damage to roots, trunks, and canopy areas of protected trees during excavation and construction works.

Tip: Keep Your Tree Protection Plan Visible On-Site

Make sure any Tree Protection Plan or site diagram is printed and displayed clearly near your site entrance. This helps trades and inspectors understand tree locations and protection zones — reducing the risk of accidental damage that could delay your approvals or result in council fines.

What Makes a Good Tree Protection Contractor?

A good Tree Protection Contractor will:

  • Be qualified as a Level 5 Arborist or similar recognised certification
  • Understand and comply with your local council’s tree preservation requirements
  • Provide clear documentation and tree protection plans
  • Be responsive to RFIs and proactive in communication
  • Offer transparent pricing with clear inclusions
  • Understand construction timeframes and be flexible with site scheduling


Look for someone who has experience working with owner builders and who can explain their process in plain language.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To request quotes from Tree Protection Contractors, you’ll need:

  • A copy of your approved DA or CDC showing any tree conditions
  • Site plan highlighting the location of protected trees
  • Any council-issued Tree Management Plans or arborist reports
  • Details of excavation areas or works near the Tree Protection Zone
  • Your intended construction timeline

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 3–5 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need to protect trees that are outside my property boundary?

    Possibly. If your work may impact trees on neighbouring land or council property (like street trees), your local authority may require protection measures for them too.

  • Can I install tree protection myself?

    Usually not. Councils and certifiers typically require this to be done — and documented — by a qualified Arborist or Tree Protection Specialist.

  • What happens if I damage a protected tree?

    You may face fines, compliance notices, or even have your Building Approval revoked. It’s essential to follow the Tree Protection Plan closely and maintain all safeguards throughout construction.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.