Download a blank repeat-visit record
Confirm the tree before comparing it
Use the existing tree ID, location, photographs and available site references to identify the tree being revisited. If its identity is uncertain, record that uncertainty and resolve it before treating the new observation as a continuation of the earlier record. Keep the site reference where IDs may repeat between properties.
Keep each visit dated
Retain the earlier inspection and create a dated record of the new visit. Include the recorder, purpose and scope. Distinguish a full repeat assessment from a visit that only checks a specified item. A reader should be able to see what was considered on each occasion rather than assume that every field was reassessed.
Record what changed and what was not checked
- Earlier visit or report reference.
- Current visit date, recorder and agreed scope.
- Current observations and supporting photo references.
- Any observed change, with the evidence used for comparison.
- Items not checked or inaccessible during this visit.
- Advice, follow-up or further review agreed for this visit.
Example of a repeat-visit note
Illustrative record: “T009, north garden. Repeat visit to document the previously noted feature. Current photographs R1 and R2 are linked to the visit date. The comparison references image P3 from the earlier report. The visit did not include reassessment of all other trees on the site.” The professional interpretation and any recommendation are recorded separately.
Make photograph comparisons understandable
Describe the view and feature being compared. Differences in lighting, season, distance or angle can affect the appearance of a photograph. Keep both dated images and explain limitations in the comparison rather than presenting visual differences alone as proof of a particular cause.
Use the template as a review aid
The CSV contains headings for the tree, visit, observations, evidence and follow-up. Adapt it to the agreed scope in a spreadsheet. It does not set inspection intervals, calculate risk or import automatically into Canopy. Agree any future inspection or action with the responsible practitioner and property contact.
See stable tree numbering, photo records and Canopy tree management workflows.
Prepared by Canopy.