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Planning Requirement

Ecologist Reports for Loft Conversions & Extensions

Many councils now require ecological screening before approving loft conversions and house extensions. Our ecologist partners provide fast, professional assessments to keep your project on track.

5-7 Day Turnaround
Professional Indemnity
Beautiful kitchen extension with large windows

Ecologist Report

Preliminary Ecological Appraisal

£850 + VAT
Site survey by ecologist
Protected species check
Full PEA report
Mitigation recommendations

When Is an Ecologist Report Required?

Planning authorities increasingly require ecological assessments for residential extensions. Here are common situations where you may need one.

Loft Conversions

Roof spaces may provide bat roosting habitat, especially in older properties or rural locations

Extensions Near Trees

Works affecting mature trees may impact nesting birds, bats using tree holes, or root protection areas

Properties with Ponds

Great crested newts are protected and may use ponds within 500m of your development site

Demolishing Outbuildings

Old sheds, garages, and outbuildings can house bats, nesting birds, or other protected species

Not Sure If You Need One?

If your planning application is rejected or delayed due to missing ecological information, it can add weeks to your project timeline. We offer a free initial assessment to determine whether your project is likely to require an ecological report.

How Our Ecologist Report Service Works

A simple, straightforward process to get your ecological assessment completed efficiently.

1

Initial Assessment

We review your site and project to determine if an ecological report is likely required by your local planning authority.

2

Site Survey

Our ecologist partner visits your property to assess habitats, potential for protected species, and site features.

3

Report Preparation

A comprehensive Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) is prepared, detailing findings and any mitigation measures.

4

Planning Submission

We include the report with your planning application, ensuring all ecological requirements are addressed.

Why Choose Hampshire Build?

We coordinate ecological surveys alongside your planning application, saving you time and hassle.

Complete Service

Ecological report coordinated with your planning application - no need to find separate providers.

Fast Turnaround

Reports completed within 5-7 working days from survey, keeping your project on schedule.

98% Planning Success Rate

We know exactly what Hampshire councils require for ecological compliance.

Professional Ecologists

All surveys conducted by experienced ecological consultants with professional indemnity insurance.

Protected Species in Hampshire

Disturbing protected species or their habitats without proper surveys can result in prosecution and project delays.

🦇Bats

All UK bat species are protected. They commonly roost in roof spaces, making them a key consideration for loft conversions. Signs include droppings, staining around entry points, or seeing bats at dusk.

Survey season: May - September

🦎Great Crested Newts

Protected and found near ponds. If there's a pond within 500m of your site, newt surveys may be required. They spend most of the year on land, not in water.

Survey season: March - June

🐦Nesting Birds

All nesting birds are protected. Works affecting hedgerows, trees, or buildings with nesting potential should be timed outside breeding season or checked first.

Nesting season: March - August

🦡Badgers

Badgers and their setts are protected. If there are badger setts near your property, buffer zones and timing restrictions may apply to your construction work.

Survey: Year-round possible

Areas We Cover

We provide ecological survey services across Hampshire and surrounding areas.

Winchester
Basingstoke
Southampton
Eastleigh
Fareham
Andover
Romsey
Salisbury
Petersfield
New Forest

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ecological reports for residential extensions.

Need an Ecologist Report for Your Project?

Don't let ecological requirements delay your extension. Book a complimentary consultation to discuss your project and find out if you need an ecological assessment.