A bat survey is an ecological assessment used to identify whether bats are present in a building, tree, or structure, and if so, how they are using the site. These surveys help determine the species involved, the level of activity, and whether roosting or habitat use is occurring. Bat surveys are essential for meeting UK planning and legal requirements when development may impact protected bat habitats.

You may need a bat survey if your development involves work that could disturb buildings, trees, or structures where bats may be present. This includes renovations, roof work, demolitions, and tree felling. Identifying the need for a bat survey early in the planning process helps avoid delays and ensures compliance with UK wildlife protection laws.

At mybatsurvey.co.uk, we specialise in three essential survey types. A Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA) is a visual inspection used to assess whether bats are likely to be present in a structure or tree. A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) provides a broader overview of the site’s ecological value, identifying protected habitats and species beyond just bats. When signs of bat presence are detected, we conduct Non-Invasive Dusk Surveys, which involve observing and recording bat activity at dusk to confirm whether bats are using the site—without causing disruption.

Not necessarily. Finding bats on your site doesn’t automatically block planning approval. However, mitigation measures may be required, such as avoiding work during breeding season or incorporating bat-friendly features. Early surveys help you plan appropriately and avoid costly delays.

Bat surveys are seasonal and can typically only be conducted between May and September, when bats are active. Some assessments, like PRAs, can be done year-round, but dusk activity surveys must be timed carefully to produce valid results.

Yes. All bat surveys must follow strict protocols set by the Bat Conservation Trust and be conducted by licensed ecologists. We adhere to all national standards, ensuring that your report is compliant, reliable, and valid for planning applications.

The validity of a bat survey depends on the type of assessment and the stage of your planning application. Based on guidance from the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) and our own professional experience, we recommend that surveys undertaken during the feasibility stage (RIBA stage 0–1) be carried out as early as possible. Preliminary Roost Assessments (PRAs) should generally be no older than 12 to 24 months at the time of submitting a full planning application. Bat Emergence and Re-Entry Surveys (BERS) are more sensitive to timing and are typically considered valid for only 6 to 12 months. If you’re applying for a European Protected Species Mitigation Licence, the survey must be from the same active bat season. For bat mitigation class licences (also known as low impact licences), surveys should be no older than three months. Using outdated survey data can lead to planning delays or the need for repeat assessments, so it’s important to ensure your survey is current.

We are a team of licensed, experienced ecologists providing fast and reliable bat surveys across the UK. Our reports are designed to meet all planning application requirements, and we use the latest technology to deliver accurate results. With clear communication, fixed pricing, and a commitment to ecological responsibility, we make the survey process smooth and stress-free from start to finish.