Can I dig up my Neighbours tree roots?

Many people ask us “Can I cut tree roots on my property that belong to neighbors?” and “What do I do with neighbor's tree roots in my yard?” The answer to that is that technically yes, but it is still better to obtain the permission of your neighbor first.

Can I cut the roots of my Neighbours tree UK?

The general position under the common law is that a neighbour can cut back branches or roots on their side, up to the boundary line. Usually, they cannot compel the owner of the tree to do this work, but are entitled to undertake it at their own cost.

Can you redirect tree roots?

Some better root management options include:

installing physical root guides and barriers that redirect tree roots down and away from hardscapes with minimal impact on the tree. curve new hardscape features – such as a driveway or patio – around the tree roots.

What to do if a Neighbour's tree is affecting you UK?

If your neighbour owns the tree or hedge

If you think your neighbour's tree is dangerous, you can report it to the council - for example if you think it might fall over. They might ask the owner to make it safe or deal with it themselves. Search for 'trees' on your council's website to find which department to contact.

How do you stop tree roots from growing?

Install root barriers before the roots reach the concrete. Cut the roots and dam them with root barriers to prevent further growth. Cut down the tree and remove the root system so you can make a smooth, level surface again.

Can I Cut My Neighbors Tree Roots? | Tree Law Miniseries | BlackBeltBarrister

Can tree roots lift a house?

Typically, when roots encounter solid, impervious surfaces such as pipes, sidewalks, curbs and foundations, they are redirected laterally or up and over. However, if there is a breach or a crack nearby, they can and will exploit those voids in search of moisture.

What kills tree roots quickly?

The fastest, most effective way to kill roots is with chemical herbicide, as soon as the tree has been cut down.

What can I do about my Neighbours tree roots?

You do have the right to cut the branches or roots back to the boundary and you do not need the consent of the tree owner before doing so, although it is usually advisable to try and obtain consent to avoid any potential dispute. This right is subject to some limitations.

What is the law if a neighbors tree roots are damaging my property?

If the roots of a tree situated on a neighbour's land have caused damage to your property, then the owner of the tree can be liable for the damage under the law of nuisance. Again, there is a process to go through to prove the cause of the damage, and the extent of that damage.

Who is liable for tree root damage?

The owner of the land upon which the tree is situated is usually the one who is liable for damage caused by the roots of that tree.

Is it OK to remove exposed tree roots?

If you want to get rid of exposed tree roots, physically removing roots is not recommended. Trees need their root systems for water and nutrients as well as stability, which is a paramount safety concern. If you remove tree roots, you risk destabilizing the tree, putting you and your family at risk of a topple.

Can you cut a tree root without killing the tree?

Find the root posing an issue and measure its diameter. If it is less than 2", it is okay to cut as long as the total root loss will not add up to more than 15% of the surface roots. Measure the diameter of your tree. Wrap a measuring tape around the tree, four feet from the tree's base.

How do you get rid of tree roots under concrete?

To reach the roots, you'll most likely need to remove the damaged areas of your driveway. Once you can reach the root, use a shovel or trowel to remove soil from around the root until it's completely exposed. Use a root saw or ax to cut the root as cleanly as possible. Pull the root upward until it comes out.

Can I poison my Neighbours tree roots?

A: You cannot poison your neighbour's tree. If you do then you could be committing the offence of criminal damage and find yourself facing court charges and a fine. Under common law you can, however, cut back any part of the tree, including roots that encroach on your boundary but only as far as the boundary line.

Can I charge my Neighbour to cut his trees?

You have a common law right to prune back parts of a tree or hedge growing over the boundary into your property (subject to any legal restrictions being overcome first such as Tree Preservation Orders or conservation areas) but you cannot compel the owner of the trees or hedge to carry out this work or pay for it.

Is there a legal height for Neighbours trees?

In general, there is no specific limit to the height that a tree is allowed to grow, but if the trees form a vegetative screen that is limiting a neighbours usage/enjoyment then it could be a High Hedge issue which Planning Enforcement would potentially get involved with.

Who is responsible if a Neighbours tree damages my property?

If your neighbour's tree falls on your house, your own house and property insurance should cover you, similarly if your tree is blown onto your neighbour's property their home insurance should cover him.

What happens if you damage tree roots?

If enough of the root system is destroyed or detached, the tree will die. As a general rule, 20% of the root system can be destroyed before the tree will show signs of injury. If 40% of the root system is lost, the tree will probably die. It should also be removed because it is hazardous.

Can my Neighbour cut my tree without asking?

Entering someone's property, without permission, to cut a tree would undoubtedly be illegal. You may need to take matters to court. It depends which came first - the tree or your garden.

How far should a tree be planted from a fence?

To get the most useful shade on the house at a practical distance, place the tree 15 to 20 feet from the house. Small trees may be planted closer than 15 feet, but large trees should be planted 20 feet or more away from the house.

Does building insurance cover tree root damage to drains?

Most buildings insurance policies include cover for damage to underground pipes, drains, cables and tanks (often called underground services).

What will dissolve tree roots?

Copper Sulfate

This bright blue salt-like crystal is available in most home improvement stores. Copper sulfate is a natural herbicide and will kill off the small tree roots invading your sewer pipes.

How do you remove a large tree root from the ground?

Try to cut far from the root ball. Next, use the grub hoe to lift out the cut roots. Pull additional ones out by hand if you can. Push the stump back and forth to loosen the roots and continue to cut and pull roots until you are able to remove the root ball from the soil.

What is the best tree root killer?

The fastest, most effective way to kill trees is with the chemical herbicide, glyphosate herbicide, the major ingredient in Roundup and some other brands. Just make sure that the concentration is at least 41 percent or higher of glyphosate as the active ingredient.