Ecology & Trees
Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA)
The ecology desk study and habitat walkover.
At a glance
- Accepted by planning authorities UK-wide
- Fixed fee, quoted up front
- Fast, reliable turnaround
- One accountable point of contact
What it is
A PEA combines a desk study and habitat survey to identify ecological features and constraints, and whether further species surveys are needed.
When you need it
Needed on most sites with any habitat, trees or buildings that could support wildlife.
What you get
What's included
Desk study (designated sites, species records)
Extended Phase 1 habitat survey
Constraints and opportunities
Recommendations for further surveys / mitigation
Not sure whether you need a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal?
Send us your site postcode and a brief description of your proposed development, and we'll tell you whether a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal is likely to be required and what level of assessment your site may need — usually within a day, at no cost.
How it works
From quote to consent
Share your site
Send the postcode, plans and any council correspondence — we confirm scope and fee up front.
We assess & value-engineer
Our specialists prepare your Preliminary Ecological Appraisal, finding the most cost-effective route that still satisfies the regulator.
Consent-ready report
A clear report the authority will accept, with us on hand for any queries or conditions.
FAQs
Frequently asked
Is a PEA the same as an ecology survey?
It's the first-stage ecology report; it may recommend targeted species surveys.
When can it be done?
Year-round, though some follow-on species surveys are seasonal.
Related services
More in Ecology & Trees
Tell us about your site
Send us your location and plans for a fast, fixed-fee quote — and honest advice on exactly which reports you do and don't need.