Neighbour's trees and ivy is destroying our fence

TELLIT01

pushing40 said:

TELLIT01 said:

I suspect the branches of a large conifer are a greater immediate problem than the ivy.  The ivy can be cut back, although I appreciate their is a problem getting to it behind the fence.  You definitely need to find a way to remove tree branches which are overhanging your garden.  There is rarely a legal requirement for somebody to maintain trees, unless they become dangerous.

It can be cut back - but only by him.  We try and cut back what we can from our side, but ultimately it's got to be his effort.  And, unfortunately, as I said, he's got absolutely zero interest in maintaining anything in his garden.  It's become like a jungle since his wife left him.

Can you clarify why the branches can only be cut back by him?  You have said the fence is maintained annually so you obviously have enough space behind the shed to do that.  It is not your neighbour's responsibility to cut back the branches overhanging your property, but you can do it yourself and offer the branches back.  You can't just throw them back into his garden.

I understand the frustration but I get the impression it's as much a case of "I don't see why I should do it" as ability to do the work.