Dormouse surveys typically involve the deployment of nest tubes and/or nest boxes at 20-meter intervals within suitable habitat. These artificial nest sites are then monitored monthly for evidence of dormice, including nests and live animals.

In addition, autumn surveys often include nut searches to identify and record feeding remains left by dormice.

Hazel dormouse surveys can be completed between April and November.

Dormouse surveys typically involve the deployment of at least 50 nest tubes. Each month within the survey period is assigned a "value" indicating the likelihood of detecting dormice during that month. These values are used to calculate a "survey effort score," which provides an indication of the thoroughness of the survey. A minimum score of 20 is generally considered necessary to ensure sufficient survey effort to detect dormice if present.