Money Moral Dilemma: Should I pay towards my son's neighbours cutting down their trees?

Technosaurus

To all the people saying "get insurance involved"... usually damage to driveways is only for sudden and unforeseen events (eg a tree falling through it). Their roots creeping under the drive over a prolonged period of time is unlikely to be a valid claim in itself... Potential argument for ground heave but it would have to be a substantial movement.

Likewise household insurers only usually offer "defensive" Public Liability cover too, so the son can't go on the offensive (eg initiate a nuisance or negligence claim) on that without bearing the costs himself - the neighbours, if they are insured, will however have their defence costs met... 

It all hinges on the son's policy wording of course.... To answer the question I agree that the son needs to have the chat with the neighbours but be prepared to pay all of the costs himself (whether that be via a parental loan or otherwise). If they still say no then legal advice may be required. But insurance is not necessarily the answer.

JayD

maz2702 said:

I understand you want to help your son, but just cutting them down may not be enough depending on the roots/tree type and you say there is already damage to the drive.
He has already asked the neighbours and they are not proactive in dealing with it.
He needs to contact his home insurance company, they will deal with it and then claim the costs back from the neighbours insurance(if they have home insurance - if so non fault claim). 

I couldn't have put it better myself! 

Goldenyears

Have you tried getting an estimate for removal of "several large trees".  We had a mature ash trimmed down to about a third last year (not removal).  It was on a boundary.  it cost £1500 and we did it because  1) they were good neighbours who asked for more light and 2) because we could afford it.
Even we would baulk at the cost of removal of "several large trees".  I don't think our tree surgeons would do it for less than £2500 per tree.  Insurers might be aware of this.

ffsno

Errr, NO. Grow up (pun intended) and cut the apron strings.....

Cantandrex

It would seem that the damage is the liability of the neighbours and they should take action - maybe this needs to be followed up with legal advice. If my neighbour was damaging my property in this way I would expect them to deal with the problem, paying to put anything right. Perhaps hold off on paying anything until the legal situation is clarified. To be honest it's your son's house and therefore his expense if it is his responsibility. Your sentiment is lovely, especially if he can't afford the cost!