Need a bat survey?
We’ll help keep your project moving.
Clear advice on what you need, when you need it and what happens next.
- Expert advice from day one
- Clear timescales
- Advice tailored to your project
- Support through planning
It depends on your site.
Bats can use buildings, trees and other structures. A bat survey may be appropriate where development could affect suitable habitat or potential roosting features.
The right starting point depends on the site and proposed works. An early conversation can help establish whether ecological assessment is relevant without assuming every project needs the same survey.
- Existing buildings
- Trees with potential features
- Woodland / hedgerows
- Near water or good bat habitat
- Known or suspected bat activity
- Demolition / conversion work
Not sure? Use Can I Build Here? for an initial indication.
Can I build here?
Clear advice.
Practical steps.
A straightforward process.
From the first conversation to practical project support, each step responds to the evidence rather than applying a one-size-fits-all survey package.
- 01
Initial discussion
We understand the site, proposed works and planning position.
- 02
Initial assessment
An ecologist reviews the building, tree or site to understand its potential for bats and determine appropriate next steps.
- 03
Further survey if appropriate
Where further work is justified, we explain what is involved and when it can be undertaken.
- 04
Clear reporting
You receive practical findings and recommendations appropriate to the project.
- 05
Ongoing support
Where necessary, we can support mitigation, licensing, planning information or ecological supervision.
What type of bat survey might be involved?
Not every project requires every stage. The appropriate approach depends on the structure, habitat, proposed works and findings at each point.
Preliminary Roost Assessment
An initial inspection of a building, structure or tree to assess potential suitability for roosting bats and look for evidence.
Emergence / Re-entry Surveys
Where appropriate, surveyors observe potential roost features during suitable conditions to understand whether bats are using them.
Activity Surveys
Used in appropriate circumstances to understand how bats use a site or landscape.
Tree Assessment
Assessment of trees for potential bat-roosting features where they may be affected by proposed works.
Hibernation Assessment
Relevant in particular circumstances where structures or habitats could support hibernating bats.
Licensing & Mitigation Support
Where protected bat roosts are affected, further ecological advice, mitigation and potentially licensing may be necessary.
Timing matters.
Some bat survey work is seasonally constrained. Understanding this early can help avoid unnecessary project delays.
The calendar is a planning aid, not definitive survey guidance.
Indicative only. Survey timing depends on the type of assessment, site circumstances, weather, current guidance and the ecological question being addressed. Final windows must be confirmed by a suitably qualified ecologist.
What if bats are found?
Finding bats does not automatically mean a project cannot proceed. The important thing is understanding the situation early enough to plan appropriately.
Depending on the circumstances, the project may require:
- Changes to design or timing
- Mitigation
- Protection of a roost
- Replacement or enhanced roosting opportunities
- Ecological supervision
- Licensing where applicable
Will bats affect planning?
Ecological information can be relevant to planning decisions where protected species may be affected. The appropriate approach depends on the site, proposal and ecological evidence.
Early assessment gives the project team more opportunity to understand potential issues and respond appropriately.
How long does a bat survey take?
There is no universal answer. Timing can depend on the site, initial findings, whether further surveys are appropriate, seasonal constraints, weather, project complexity and reporting requirements.
Contacting an ecologist early gives you more options.
How much does a bat survey cost?
Cost depends on site complexity, the number of structures or trees, assessment type, survey visits, location, reporting and any additional support.
Tell us about the project and we’ll provide a clear proposal for the work we believe is appropriate.
Not sure whether bats are even relevant to your project?
Answer a few questions about your site and we’ll highlight some of the ecological considerations worth thinking about.
Questions about bat surveys.
Clear answers. No ecology-speak.
The wider ecological picture.
Book a bat survey.
Get clear advice on the appropriate next step for your project.