What actually is a Bat Survey – Good Question?
A bat survey is simply an ecological / environmental assessment carried out to determine if there are actually any bats or bat roosts present on a property, specific area, location or site.
These surveys are often required before starting any building or development project to comply with wildlife conservation laws which as we all know are very strict in the UK! They vital to ensure you do not enter into any legal problems either over the short term or perhaps more importantly over the long term.
2. Why do I need a Bat Survey?
Bat surveys are essential to ensure that your project complies with UK and EU wildlife laws, which protect bats and their habitats (other species of animals are also protected and we can assist with other surveys as well if need be). If bats are found on your site, mitigation or licensing may be required to proceed with development safely so its always crucial to ensure a full bat survey is carried out by a professional.
3. When do I need a Bat Survey?
You may need a bat survey for a number of reasons, here are some of the most common
- You’re planning new development, construction, or renovation work (builder, developer or homeowner for example)
- You’re applying for planning permission and the site is near bat habitats (this obviously needs to be thoroughly checked)
- You’re working with buildings over 100 years old, barns, or older trees. It’s recommended to do the survey early to avoid project delays, especially in areas where wildlife is known to thrive, often rural and urban areas.
4. What types of Bat Surveys do you offer?
We offer a range of bat surveys depending on your specific project needs, of which we can discuss over the phone or email. The most common bat surveys in the UK are
- Preliminary Roost Assessments (PRA): A visual survey to assess if bats may be roosting in a building or structure.
- Emergence & Re-entry Surveys: These involve observing bats as they emerge from or return to their roost at dusk or dawn.
- Bat Activity Surveys: Monitoring bat activity in and around a site using bat detectors to record their presence and other tech gadgets
- Bat Mitigation Plans & Licensing Support: Helping you develop a plan to protect bats and get the necessary licenses if you need to proceed with development.
5. How long do Bat Surveys take?
The length of a bat survey depends on the type of survey being conducted.
A Preliminary Roost Assessment can take a few hours, while emergence and re-entry surveys can take a full night or early morning. Results are typically provided within 7-10 days after the survey so you can carry on with your project stress free.
6. Are Bat Surveys required by law?
Yes, as we know living in the UK has strict enforceable laws unlike other EU countries, Bats and their roosts are protected by law under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. It’s illegal to disturb or harm bats, and a bat survey ensures your project complies with these regulations – perhaps not something everyone is actually aware of, did you know about bat surveys until now?
7. What happens if Bats are found on my property?
If bats are found, you may need to implement mitigation measures such as creating bat-friendly roosts or altering the development plan to avoid disturbing the bats. We will assist you with obtaining the necessary bat mitigation licenses from the authorities and discuss every option available to you. It does not mean your project can not go ahead although we will do our best to help you move forward, protect the bats and abide by the law – our experienced surveyors can assist with every scenario.
8. How do I know if my building is suitable for Bats?
Certain factors make a building more likely to house bats, such as:
- Age of the building (over 100 years old) giving time for bats to become used to certain locations
- Presence of lofts, roof spaces, barns, or old timber frames providing good areas to habitat especially if they are quiet
- Proximity to known bat habitats like woodlands, rivers, or fields A Preliminary Roost Assessment will give you an indication of the potential for bat roosting.
9. How much does a Bat Survey cost?
The cost of a bat survey obviously will depend on several factors and will vary depending on the size of the site, type of survey needed, and location. We can assist with free consultations & quotes and will provide you with an accurate, transparent quote based on your specific needs. Please contact us to get the full breakdown, remember you may only need 1 roost assesement.
10. Can I carry out the Bat Survey myself?
No, bat surveys should be carried out by a licensed and experienced ecologist due to the specialized knowledge and equipment required. A professional will ensure that all legal and safety requirements are met to ensure your project will be fully compliant!
11. How do I book a Bat Survey?
To book a survey, simply contact us via our online form or give us a call. We’ll discuss your project details, assess the requirements, and schedule a survey at a time that works for you. We have access to nationwide ecologist covering from Lands End to John O’Groats.
12. Can Bat Surveys be done year-round?
Bat surveys can be carried out throughout the year, but summer months (May to September) are ideal for most surveys, especially for emergence and re-entry surveys when bats are most active. In winter, bat activity is lower, but we can still carry out assessments if needed. If you are looking to get working before the end of summer we strongly recommend getting in contact as soon as possible to ensure your survey CAN be done in season!
13. How will a Bat Survey affect my project timeline?
We totally understand the importance of keeping your project on schedule as delays means money. We aim to complete surveys quickly and efficiently, with results provided promptly, usually within 14 days of the assessment (sometimes sooner).
14. Do I need a Bat Survey for my residential property?
If you’re planning to do significant renovations, demolitions, or extensions to an older property (especially if it’s more than 100 years old), a bat survey may be required. It’s always best to check with your local planning authority or council to makes sure your covered. As mentioned above we can assist with multiple eco surveys so please do get in touch today for a friendly, no obligation informative call. Our aim is to help you get the survey done as quickly and efficiently as possible and our experienced ecologist are waiting for your call.
