Bat Surveys are key in the preservation of bats. In the UK, bats are protected by law and, as such, it’s important that before any development begins on land, you should take the necessary steps to ensure their safety.
A Preliminary Roost Assessment is one of two preliminary surveys you can request before any work begins (the other being Preliminary Ecology Appraisal or a ‘PEA’)
What is a Bat Preliminary Roost Assessment?
Preliminary Bat Roost Assessments or ‘PRAs’ are used to evaluate buildings, trees and surrounding habitats to determine their suitability for roosting bats; an assessment for birds, including owls, is also incorporated in this bat survey. Included in a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal if buildings and/or trees are present on site, PRAs are often required for barn conversions to residential use. They can be undertaken throughout the year and recommendations for necessary further bat surveys to support a planning application result from these assessments.
The Preliminary Roost Assessment will also:
– Include a site inspection to establish the presence of droppings, urine stains, prey, entry-exit points
– Rule out the possibility of bats or be followed by a comprehensive emergence/activity survey
– tell you of any recorded presences of bats in the area via a desk-based data survey
How Much Does a Bat Preliminary Roost Assessment Cost?
Preliminary Roost Assessments can vary in cost as there are lots of factors involved. Get in touch with our expert team who would be happy to help you with a full quote.
When is the Best Time for a Bat Preliminary Roost Assessment?
Our Preliminary Roost Assessments can be conducted all year around. This ensures that no matter the time, you can request a survey to identify if there are any bats or potential bats on your site.
How Long is a Bat Preliminary Roost Assessment Survey Valid For?
Each local authority will have their own requirements, so the best way to check is through them directly. However, as a rough guideline, most preliminary surveys should be valid for 12-24 months.
Why Choose Greenlight?
All bat species are protected under UK and EU law, so conducting bat surveys prior to property development is critical. At Greenlight, we use sound analysis software and infrared equipment to identify the number and location of bats on-site.
For more information on our Preliminary Ecology Appraisal surveys get in touch with the team today.
