Dealing With Neighbour Tree Root Damage
Tree root damage is a common issue in neighbourhoods and could lead to conflict without the proper care. Any area with trees is subject to tree root damage, and your home could be suffering the consequences because of a neighbour’s landscape.
When tree roots grow past the boundaries of the garden or landscape, they can cause a range of issues including cracking pavements, damaged pipes or even foundational issues if left unattended. This is why effective treatment is vital for any form of tree root damage, even if it is not your responsibility.
Dealing with neighbourhood tree root damage can be complicated, but it does not have to end badly. At Kneebone Trees, we have a wealth of experience dealing with tree-related issues, including neighbourhood tree root damage, and can guide you through the process. Using our skills and passion for tree care, we can help you ensure the best result for your home and the environment.
The Impact Of Tree Root Damage
Tree roots are essential for the health and growth of trees, but they can also cause damage to their surroundings.
Tree roots typically grow horizontally, looking for water and nutrients to pass through the tree. In this search, tree roots can grow too far and escape the boundaries of the garden or landscape the tree is planted.
This is where tree root damage comes in, and can cause serious issues to your home even if the tree is not in your garden. As tree roots grow out and become denser, they can cause issues such as:
- Cracking in concrete or brick, such as the pavement, walls of your home, or garden surfaces
- Lifting of pavement, stones or other surfaces
- Visible tree roots in the neighbourhood or garden
- Plumbing issues, such as slow-draining sinks and toilets
- Irregular or sinking patches or lawn
If left unattended, neighbourhood tree root damage can lead to foundation issues which can have permanent effects on your home. This is why it is best to act quickly and responsibly when dealing with neighbourhood tree root damage.
What To Do With Neighbour Tree Root Damage
To ensure that neighbourhood tree root damage is dealt with responsibly and quickly, you want to avoid conflict. Communicating with your neighbours, understanding your rights, and knowing where to turn when dealing with this kind of tree damage can go a long way in ensuring successful treatment.
To deal with neighbour tree root damage, consider the following steps:
1) Identify The Problem
Being able to recognise the signs of tree root damage can ensure prompt recovery of your home, garden and neighbourhood. Taking note of the signs, such as cracked pavement or visible roots, can make it easier to point out the issue to your neighbour and begin communication with them about treatment.
You not only need to be able to identify whether you are dealing with tree root damage but also who is responsible for the tree. If you cannot visibly tell who is responsible for the tree or require more evidence, local authorities such as your local council should be able to provide property blueprints which can indicate where the tree is located.
To determine whether you are dealing with tree root damage, a professional tree survey may be required.
2) Openly Communicate With Your Neighbour
Neighbourhood tree root damage is everyone’s problem, so you do not have to deal with it on your own. Once you have confirmed that you are dealing with root damage and it is your neighbour’s responsibility, open a conversation with them.
Approach this diplomatically, as your neighbour may not even be aware of the root damage their tree is causing. You should aim to avoid conflict this early in the process, as it will only complicate matters and make neighbourhood tree root damage more difficult to deal with.
It is a good idea to provide evidence of the neighbourhood tree root damage when explaining the issue to your neighbour, whether this is visual or through official reports. Explain your concerns and work on coming up with a resolution together, such as recommending a reliable local arborist to deal with the issue.
In many cases, the issue can be resolved privately and there is no need for further action.
3) Know Your Rights
Knowing where you stand when it comes to tree root damage and the responsibility for this will make it easier to communicate with your neighbour.
Who is responsible for the tree, which includes the maintenance, pruning and removal if the issues are severe, will vary based on where the tree is planted. Being able to prove that your neighbour is the one responsible for the damaged tree is essential during your open conversation and can prevent things from going further.
Understanding your rights can also make it easier for you to take action independently. Based in the condition and position of the tree, you may be able to trim encroaching roots that are in your garden. Make sure to double-check with local building regulations to avoid legal issues when cutting your neighbour’s tree.
After explaining the situation and your legal responsibility to your neighbour, further action may be required. Knowing your rights means you can set your case off on the right footing and know exactly how to act during proceedings.
How To Treat Tree Root Damage
Based on the severity of the neighbourhood tree root damage, there are some ways you can manage this issue and prevent it from getting worse:
- Trimming or Removing Invasive Roots: As we have mentioned, you may be able to cut the roots that are infringing on your property and causing issues. Check with local building regulations first and make sure clippings can be given back to your neighbour afterwards.
- Installing Root Barriers: Tree root barriers will secure the roots in place and encourage them to grow downwards, so they no longer cause issues across the neighbourhood. These can be purchased and installed independently, or by professional tree surgeons.
- Professional Services And Cost-Sharing: To ensure the best method for neighbourhood tree root damage, hire professional tree surgeons. Discuss this with your neighbour and aim to come to a cost agreement, where you both pay for the service to get the issue resolved.
Maintaining calm, open communication with your neighbour can ensure that tree root damage is treated effectively.
Has It Gone Too Far? When To Involve Authorities
Authorities may be required if your neighbour refuses to take responsibility for their tree root damage, despite the evidence, such as:
- Mediation Services: These professionals will handle the communication and organisation of neighbourhood tree root damage for you. They will communicate with your neighbour, explain the situation and deliver results on your behalf which can be an effective way to avoid conflict. By using an official service, your neighbour may be more likely to respond.
- Local Council: Your council can provide valuable evidence regarding who is responsible for the tree root damage and what needs to be done. They can issue warnings and fines to your neighbour if they do not act at an appropriate time. Your local council can also direct you to additional services if required.
- Legal Proceedings: If your neighbour fails to take proper care of their tree, they could be liable for any damage done. It is recommended to request legal advice if you are struggling to manage neighbourhood tree root damage, as this may need to be taken further.
Conclusion
Tree root damage can cause serious issues to your home and community if not treated properly. Your neighbour is responsible for the trees in their garden and therefore needs to ensure it is safe, well-maintained and not impacting properties around it.
By recognising the signs of tree root damage and understanding your rights, you can ensure this issue goes no further. You can avoid structural damage and costly repairs by communicating with your neighbour. However, in some cases additional support may be needed and the issue could lead to legal proceedings if your neighbour does not comply.
Working with professional arborists like Kneebone Trees can protect your home and neighbourhood. We offer tree surveys and inspections, to determine whether you are dealing with tree root damage, as well as tree surgery and maintenance to keep it safe.
Although you can trim and remove roots yourself in some cases, it is recommended to work with professionals to avoid damaging the tree and your relationship with neighbours.
Contact Us Today
If you are dealing with neighbourhood tree root damage and need support, reach out to the team today. We can help identify who is responsible for the tree, as well as recommend the best treatment
