When Might a Bat Survey Be Required?
A bat survey is often required when carrying out building works that could affect bats or their roosts. This is commonly the case for extensions, loft conversions, re-roofing, barn conversions, chimney repairs, dormers, outbuildings and demolition.
Bats and their roosts are legally protected, and most planning authorities require evidence that bats have been considered as part of a planning application.
Which Bat Survey Do I Need?
In most cases, the first step is a Preliminary Bat Roost Assessment (PBRA), commonly known as a PRA. This involves a thorough inspection of the building to look for evidence of bats and to assess it's suitability to support roosting bats.
Following the assessment, we provide a clear report with our findings and recommendations. In many cases, no further surveys are required. If the building has features with potential for bats, further surveys, such as dusk emergence surveys, may be recommended.
The Bat Survey Process
A straightforward process from initial enquiry to clear, practical advice.
What Happens if Further Surveys Are Required?
If the initial assessment identifies features that could be used by roosting bats, further surveys may be recommended to determine whether bats are using the building and, where necessary, how they are using it.
These are normally dusk emergence surveys carried out during the appropriate survey season. The number of surveys required will depend on the findings of the initial assessment and the suitability of the building for roosting bats.
If further surveys are needed, we'll explain exactly what is required and the next steps for your project.
If Bats Are Found
Finding bats does not necessarily prevent your project from going ahead. The survey findings are used to understand how bats are using the building and what needs to be considered as part of the proposed works.
Depending on the type of roost and the works proposed, this may involve changes to the timing or method of works, measures to retain or replace roosting opportunities, and in some cases a Natural England licence.
We'll explain the findings clearly and provide practical advice on the appropriate way forward.
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