Bat Surveys
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Clear, proportionate advice for anyone navigating planning and bats
Whether you're planning a home extension, converting a barn, or working on a larger development, encountering bats can quickly add complexity to your project. All UK bat species are legally protected, and in many cases, local authorities won’t validate a planning application until bat survey requirements are met.
At Burton Reid, we offer straightforward, proportionate advice - helping you understand what’s needed and why, and guiding you through the process with clarity and care.
When Is a Bat Survey Required?
Bat surveys are typically triggered when:
Even small-scale projects can require bat surveys, especially where a structure has roosting potential. Most planning authorities will not validate an application until an initial bat survey, usually a Preliminary Roost Assessment, has been completed.
Our Bat Survey Services
We carry out all required bat surveys in line with Bat Conservation Trust (BCT) 2023 guidance, including:
Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA)
A licensed ecologist inspects your building or structure (both inside and out) for signs of bats or features that could support roosts. This is usually the first step in the process.
Presence/Likely Absence Surveys
If we can’t rule out bats during the PRA, we carry out dusk/dawn surveys (May–August) to assess whether bats are present, and how they’re using the structure. These involve multiple visits and may require night vision aids.
Roost Characterisation Surveys
Where bats are confirmed, further surveys may be required to understand how and when a roost is used. This information is essential for licence applications and mitigation planning.
What Happens if Bats Are Found?
If a roost is confirmed and your project cannot avoid affecting it, you will likely need a Bat Mitigation Licence (also known as a European Protected Species licence). This adds time and cost, but we’re here to help you through it.
We’ll provide:
Why choose Burton Reid?
Need help with bats and planning?
Get in touch and we’ll guide you through your next steps with confidence.
Videos
Bat Roost Tour
Bats of the UK
Relevance of Bats
