SML Laboratories
Botanical DNA testing laboratory

Does a subsidence claim rest on which tree is to blame? Get answers with botanical testing

SML is a subcontract botanical DNA testing laboratory that gives your claim a defensible answer. We deliver tree root identification in 5 working days as standard, with a premium service up to 24 hours on request.

Call 01323 302280
Quote request SAME-DAY REPLY

    5 working days standard 24h on request DNA barcoding

    No obligation. An expert replies with your quote the same working day.

    How we help▊

    Here is how SML Laboratories gives your claim a defensible answer

    SML Laboratories is a subcontract testing laboratory in Eastbourne, working for the insurers, loss adjusters, engineers and consultancies who handle the claim or investigation. We handle your botanical DNA analysis in house and return results you can rely on, on time.

    Inside the SML Laboratories facility in Eastbourne
    COMMERCIAL DNA ANALYSIS · EASTBOURNE
    DNA analysis handled at our in-house lab

    Direct access to key staff

    Talk to the people running your analysis, not a ticket queue.

    Dependable turnaround

    5 working days standard, 24 hours on request when it counts.

    Nationwide collection

    Courier collection plus our own lab driver to get samples in.

    One-off or high-volume

    Both one-off investigations and high-volume routine testing.

    The process▊

    From sample to identification in 5 working days

    DAY 0

    Request a quote

    Send sample details and deadline. Priced the same working day.

    →
    COLLECTION

    Samples collected

    Nationwide courier collection, plus our own lab driver.

    →
    ON ARRIVAL

    Booked in and prepped

    Logged, tracked and prepared for DNA extraction on receipt.

    →
    IN THE LAB

    DNA barcoding

    Identified to genus and, in many cases, species level.

    →
    BY DAY 5

    Results reported

    A clear, defensible identification, reported on time.

    Need it sooner?▊
    A premium service up to 24 hours is available on request. Tell us your deadline when you request a quote.
    Diagonal subsidence crack in a brick wall beside a mature tree
    The problem▊

    Do you have a subsidence claim resting on identifying a specific tree?

    When a property cracks and subsidence is suspected, the insurer needs to know which tree is responsible before a claim can move forward or a felling decision can be justified.

    DNA identification gives a clear, defensible answer naming the species involved, so the right party is held accountable and the claim rests on evidence rather than assumption.

    With the responsible species confirmed, arboricultural recommendations and any remedial works can be justified on solid ground, and the file stands up if the claim is later questioned.

    To genus and species

    Identifies material to genus and, in many cases, species level.

    Outperforms microscopy

    More reliable than traditional microscopic assessment.

    Closely related species

    Effective on poplars, willows and similar look-alikes.

    Fine and juvenile roots

    Works on fine roots and samples lacking bark or diagnostic features.

    DNA tree root identification▊

    How we can help identify your tree root sample

    Using DNA barcoding, our tree root analysis laboratory identifies root material to genus and, in many cases, to species level, giving your claim a defensible answer. This tree root DNA analysis outperforms traditional microscopic assessment where it matters most.

    It is particularly effective on closely related species such as poplars and willows, on fine juvenile roots, and on samples that lack bark or other diagnostic features.

    Claim resting on a root sample?

    Send us the sample details and deadline. We will confirm turnaround and price the same working day.

    Beyond roots▊

    We identify more than just tree roots

    Our botanical DNA testing extends across a range of biological materials, from plant DNA testing to plant identification by DNA, with bespoke testing programmes available on request.

    Plant material

    Leaves, twigs and other plant material for identification.

    Fungi and moulds

    Identification of fungal and mould samples.

    Selected materials

    Selected materials such as feathers.

    Bespoke programmes

    One-off investigations and high-volume routine testing alike.

    “
    Client feedback▊

    What our clients say

    ★★★★★
    We rely on SML Laboratories for high-volume geotechnical testing and root identification, and they supported us exceptionally well during the busy 2025 surge. Having both services under one roof provides a real benefit
    C Constructive EvaluationConstruction Site Investigation Company
    ★★★★★
    SML is a reliable one-stop laboratory partner for all our testing needs, consistently delivering quality results alongside a friendly and personal service. The team are approachable, responsive and easy to work with.
    L Land ScienceGround Investigation Company

    Ready to send us your samples?

    Request a quote and we will arrange collection anywhere in the country.

    Request a quote▊

    Get your identification moving

    Send us the essentials and a member of our team will come back to you the same working day with turnaround and pricing.

    ☎Call us01323 302280 ✉Email uscs@sml-laboratories.co.uk

      5 working days standard 24h on request DNA barcoding

      No obligation. An expert replies with your quote the same working day.

      FAQ▊

      Frequently asked questions

      Everything you need to know about sending botanical samples to our DNA lab. Cannot see your question? Talk to us directly.

      01323 302280
      What is your standard turnaround?+
      Routine tree root identification is returned in 5 working days as standard from our root identification laboratory, with a premium service of up to 24 hours available on request.
      How does DNA barcoding compare to microscopy?+
      DNA barcoding identifies material to genus and, in many cases, species level, and outperforms traditional microscopic assessment. It is particularly effective on closely related species such as poplars and willows, on fine juvenile roots, and on samples lacking bark or other diagnostic features.
      What else can you identify?+
      Alongside tree roots we identify leaves, twigs and other plant material, fungi and moulds, and selected materials such as feathers. Bespoke testing programmes are available.
      Do you offer DNA fingerprinting or wider DNA sequencing?+
      DNA fingerprinting to match roots to parent plants and an extended range of commercial DNA sequencing services, including environmental DNA testing and eDNA analysis, are currently in development and not yet launched. Contact us if you would like to be kept informed.
      Can you handle both one-off and high-volume work?+
      Yes. We handle both one-off investigations and high-volume routine testing, and arrange nationwide sample collection by courier plus our own lab driver.