Protected trees and house insurance

spaggy

The new build house we are hoping to buy has 2 protected trees which cross through our boundary. We are negotiating with the builder and there is a possibility that we can have the boundary moved so as not to include these trees

My question is if this does not happen and we end up 'sharing' these trees does it affect ones household insurance? is it something I would be asked to declare?

Secondly if we end up without the trees but they cause damage to anything on our land would we claim off our neighbours?

Would really appreciate any advice from people who have been in a similiar situation

Thanks : )

Oscar_The_Grouch

Hi there

Trees are a major cause of Subsidence (downward movement of the foundations that causes the walls to crack) and damage to drains.

Some insurers will ask you to declare any large trees within either 5 or 10 metres of your home. If they have a problem with the trees, they will increase your excess for Subsidence or exclude the cover altogether. Remember, you will have an excess of £1,000 for Subsidence as a minimum so make sure your foundations have been designed to take the trees into account!!

With regard to the trees causing damage to other peoples houses, you should not have to worry. Your buildings home insurance will cover you for your liability as the owner of the property and that would pick up the risk of the trees. Liability insurance under a home policy doesn't have an excess.

You may want to speak to the Council, however, as the preservation order may mean that if you want to reduce the trees later on, you need their permission. That can take months and may need a report from an arboriculturalist (tree surgeon) first which could cost you £300 - £400. If you suggest to them now that you want to maintain the trees at their current size, they may be willing to agree to that.