A Preliminary Roost Assessment is a crucial step in assessing the presence of bats and other wildlife in your property before starting any development or construction work. This assessment helps to ensure that any potential impact on protected species is minimized, adhering to wildlife protection laws and regulations. At Gradwell Ecology, we specialize in providing thorough and accurate preliminary roost assessments for property owners, developers, and construction teams.

In this blog, we will explain the importance of a Preliminary Roost Assessment, the process involved, and how Gradwell Ecology can assist you with this essential service.

What Is a Preliminary Roost Assessment?

A Preliminary Roost Assessment is a survey designed to evaluate the likelihood of bats or other protected species roosting in or around a building or site. This assessment is typically conducted before any planned development, renovation, or demolition work to ensure that no harm comes to protected species and that the necessary permits and licenses are obtained.

The assessment involves a visual inspection of the property, examining areas where bats or other protected wildlife may seek shelter, such as loft spaces, roof voids, cracks in walls, and other potential roosting sites. Depending on the findings, further surveys may be required to identify the specific species and determine the best course of action.

Why is a Preliminary Roost Assessment Important?

1. Legal Compliance

In the UK, bats are a protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and their roosts are protected by law. If bats are found to be roosting in a building, specific licenses may be required before any work can begin. A Preliminary Roost Assessment helps property owners and developers ensure that they are in compliance with these regulations and avoid legal issues.

2. Protecting Wildlife

By carrying out a Preliminary Roost Assessment, you are taking the necessary steps to protect bats and other wildlife. Many bat species are vulnerable or endangered, and their habitats must be preserved. The assessment helps to identify potential risks to these species and ensures that appropriate measures are taken to protect them.

3. Prevent Delays in Development

If a Preliminary Roost Assessment is not conducted early in the planning stages, there may be delays in the development process if bats or other protected species are discovered. Identifying potential roosting sites early on helps to avoid unexpected delays and ensures a smoother development process.

4. Tailored Action Plans

In the event that bats or other protected species are found on site, the results of the Preliminary Roost Assessment can guide the creation of a tailored action plan. This plan may include measures such as the installation of bat boxes, timing restrictions for construction, or relocation strategies to ensure the safety of the animals.

The Process of a Preliminary Roost Assessment

1. Initial Site Visit

The first step in the assessment is an on-site inspection. Our qualified ecologists will conduct a visual survey of the property, focusing on areas that are likely to be used by bats or other wildlife. This includes examining roof spaces, eaves, windows, chimneys, and other potential roosting sites.

2. Bat Signs and Evidence

During the assessment, we will look for signs of bat activity, such as droppings, staining, or scratches around entry points. We also check for the presence of bat droppings (guano) or remains of insects that may indicate bat activity.

3. Risk Evaluation

Based on the findings, we evaluate the potential risk to bats or other protected species. If there is a likelihood that bats are roosting on the property, we may recommend further surveys, such as dusk or dawn surveys, to assess bat activity in more detail.

4. Report and Recommendations

After the assessment, we provide a detailed report outlining our findings and recommendations. If bats or other protected species are found, we will advise on the next steps, including any further surveys required and the development of an appropriate mitigation strategy.

Why Choose Gradwell Ecology for Your Preliminary Roost Assessment?

At Gradwell Ecology, we have a team of experienced ecologists who specialize in bat surveys and wildlife protection. Here’s why you should choose us for your Preliminary Roost Assessment:

1. Expert Team

Our team consists of qualified and experienced ecologists who are well-versed in the legal requirements and ecological surveys related to bats and other protected species.

2. Comprehensive Reports

We provide clear, detailed reports outlining our findings and recommendations, helping you navigate the legal and environmental requirements with ease.

3. Regulatory Compliance

We ensure that our assessments meet all relevant regulations and guidelines, ensuring you are fully compliant with environmental laws.

4. Tailored Solutions

We work with you to develop tailored solutions based on the findings of our assessment, helping to minimize disruption to your project while protecting wildlife.

Get Your Preliminary Roost Assessment Today

If you’re planning a construction or renovation project and need a Preliminary Roost Assessment, don’t hesitate to contact us at Gradwell Ecology. We can help you ensure that your development complies with environmental regulations while protecting vulnerable species.

Visit our website or get in touch with us today to learn more about our services and schedule your assessment.

Protect wildlife and ensure your project complies with environmental regulations with a Preliminary Roost Assessment from Gradwell Ecology.