Tree Repot

merrydance

Hi

We are applying for an equity release on our property. The only thing the surveyor has thrown up on the valuation is that a tree needs to be inspected which is 1 metre from our property on council land. The council has said the tree is fine and not causing damage but will not put anything thing in writing. We have instructed a tree specialist who is coming to see the tree on Thursday (the report is costing £250 and that was one of the cheaper quotes). Just wondered if anyone on here has had any experiences of this and what happens next. Sorry should say "TREE REPORT"

Thanks

moneyistooshorttomention

One thought - and I have no experience of this to know if it works.

There are some pretty heavy-duty looking root barrier materials on the market. These are meant to keep roots of plants (own or neighbours) from "wandering" if placed in a location where the roots would otherwise spread to.

In your case - I would be wondering what the chances were that one put down along my boundary would stop the roots getting through. Of course - if the roots already have got through - then they would doubtless be "chopped off at the pass" at the point at which you put this in the ground.

Hopefully an experienced gardener will be along soon that can say how well (or otherwise) these work.

Maybe DavesNave knows? He contributes on here regularly.

eddddy

1. If the report says the tree is fine and poses no risk - send a copy of the report to the mortgage lender.


2. If the report says the tree is not ok, hopefully it will also recommend what needs to be done - so send a copy of the report to the council, and ask them to do the work.

Tell the mortgage co what is happening. When the work is done, tell the mortgage lender. (They may ask for another report confirming that the work is done. Maybe taking 'before' and 'after' photos will help.)

Miss_Samantha

In any case, you need to put in writing to the council that you suspect that the tree is too close to the property and may be cause damage to the foundation, and be a risk in case of storm, etc.

This is important because if something does happen then you can show that the council was made aware and is thus liable.

moneyistooshorttomention

Miss_Samantha wrote: »

In any case, you need to put in writing to the council that you suspect that the tree is too close to the property and may be cause damage to the foundation, and be a risk in case of storm, etc.

This is important because if something does happen then you can show that the council was made aware and thus liable.

I'd second that comment bigtime:T That way you are in the clear with your insurance company if anything happens - as you just haul out the paperwork and send them a copy to prove you "did your best" and it's the Council that they should chase up about paying any bill for damage.

merrydance

Thanks for the replies. What are the signs that the tree has/will cause damage. Had a good look round and cannot see any cracking. Thanks

Miss_Samantha

I am no arboriculturalist but I suspect that a tree planted 1m from a house's wall will cause damage sooner or later.

kinger101

On clay soils, trees can contribute to subsidence. It depends on type of tree/type of soil/proximity. 1 metre is very close, and you've almost certainly got roots under your property. Roots can also cause problems with drains.

The other risk is damage to the building or it's contents from falling branches. Not all companies or policies insure for this risk, and some impose an excess.

You'll need to check any insurance policies carefully.

dc197

1m from your property but how far from your building? Species? Age, height, girth? Present before your house was build or planted after built?

merrydance

It's a slilver birch tree, same height as the house. Planted same time as the house was built 40/45 years ago. It's a metre from the house with a girth of about 10 inches. There is no sign of cracking on the wall which is near the tree. Tree man from council said it is not causing any damage.

If the tree is cut down will this stop any future damage?

Thanks

kinger101

I suggest waiting for your specialist report before you take any further action. That's what specialists are for.