What is a Preliminary Roost Assessment?

A Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA) also known as a bat scoping survey is an ecological survey that aims to identify whether a site provides roosting sites or suitable habitat for bats. It is stage one in the bat surveying process and is often requested by the local planning authorities in the likelihood that the new development will affect bats. Preliminary Roost Assessments can be undertaken during daylight hours and at any time of year.

What Happens Following my Preliminary Roost Assessment?

If no evidence of bats is found and the building or structure is not suitable for bats, then a preliminary roost assessment is all that will be required. However, if evidence of bats is found or if the building or structure is suitable for bats, the next stage is to have a bat emergence survey carried out. Please note, these need to be undertaken between May and September. An emergence survey records the level of bat activity, undertaken at night that allows our surveyors to monitor and record whether or not bats fly out of the building or structure. If no bats are recorded, then that’s all that required. Alternatively, if bats are recorded entering and exiting the building then a further survey will be required to assess whether the bats will be affected by the proposed development. In the event that the development is identified as causing damage or disturb to roosting bats then a bat licence will need to be obtained in order to continue with the works. However, if the development is able to proceed without any damage or disturbance to the areas where bats are roosting, then the development can proceed providing that you follow the recommended precautions.