Lally Tree Management Now Qualified as a ‘VALID’ App User – What Does That Mean?

At Lally Tree Management, we are committed to using the most advanced and scientifically rigorous methods to assess tree risk. That’s why we are now officially qualified as a VALID (Visual Assessment of Likelihood of Impact & Damage) App user, a system designed to provide a straightforward and scientifically backed approach to tree risk assessment.

The VALID system is a risk-benefit management tool that allows us to make clear, evidence-based decisions about tree risks using an intuitive Tree Risk App. To become a qualified user, I have undergone extensive training, ensuring that I can apply the system accurately and effectively in real-world tree assessments.

What Makes VALID a Trusted Tree Risk System?

VALID was developed in collaboration with Willy Aspinall, an Emeritus Cabot Professor in Natural Hazards & Risk Science at Bristol University. The system has undergone rigorous stress testing to ensure its accuracy and reliability. As Professor Aspinall states:

“We have stress-tested VALID and didn’t find any gross, critical sensitivities. In short, the mathematical basis of your approach is sufficiently robust and dependable for any practical purpose.”

This validation underscores the scientific integrity and dependability of the system, making it a valuable tool for ensuring trees are both safe and beneficial to their environment.

How Does the VALID System Work?

Using the VALID system, I can assess tree risk by entering key data collected during an inspection. This includes:
✔ Likelihood of Occupancy – How often people or property are present near the tree.
✔ Likelihood of Failure – The probability of structural failure due to defects, decay, or external stress.
✔ Consequences – The potential damage or harm that could result if failure occurs.

Once this data is entered, the VALID app algorithm calculates a precise risk score, helping guide decisions about whether action is needed and what the best course of action might be.

Why Is Tree Risk Assessment Important?

While trees enhance landscapes, provide habitats for wildlife, and improve air quality, they can also pose significant risks if they lose structural integrity due to disease, age, or external damage. Falling branches or tree failures can result in serious injuries or damage, making proactive assessment and management essential.

By using the VALID system, I can help clients make informed, defensible decisions about tree safety while balancing conservation and risk management. The system follows globally recognized standards, including ISO31000 Risk Management Standards and the Tolerability of Risk Framework (ToR), ensuring a transparent, structured, and responsible approach to tree management.

If you have concerns about a tree on your property and want a clear, professional risk assessment, feel free to contact Lally Tree Management today. With the VALID system, we offer trusted, expert-led tree risk assessments that provide peace of mind while preserving the natural beauty of your landscape.