Growing Trees in Pots: Tips for Miniature Trees

Does Your Tree Lie Near the Property Boundary Line?

6 March 2018 by Julius Manninen

Trees add curb appeal to a home, provide shade from solar radiation, and act as natural habitats for birds. However, they tend to grow in whatever direction they want, and as a result, their roots or branches can grow too close to or beyond the property line. When this happens, the tree can be a source of dispute between you and your neighbour. To avoid escalating such an issue to the authorities, you should consider cutting down the tree if it has invaded the boundary line or your neighbour's property in the following ways;

Overhanging branches

When tree branches are overhanging a house, they always pose a danger to the home. They can break during a storm and fall on the roof, causing significant damage to the structure. If your tree's branches damage your neighbour's roof or other structure, you will be liable for the damages. Unless you want to spend hundreds of dollars repairing someone's roof, it would be advisable to trim the tree. In this case, you don't have to remove it; you can just cut off the overhanging branches.

Invasive roots

Tree roots will grow in any direction as they look for water. If a tree is near the boundary line, its roots can grow beyond the edge and into your neighbour's home. While this may not be an issue, it becomes a problem if the roots invade the other home's yard or lawn. If they break through the surface, they can be an eyesore in your neighbour's beautiful garden. Also, the roots can cause trip and fall accidents or even damage lawn mowing equipment. In this case, you have to cut the roots that are growing past your property. However, since the roots may develop again, the best option would be to cut it down entirely.

Sick tree

There is nothing worse than having a diseased tree in your yard. What if the sick tree has its branches or root invading another person's property? An infected tree can die at any time, and it may end up falling on your neighbour's yard and killing plants, damaging kerbs, or even destroying their barn. You should regularly inspect your tree to look out for the following signs which indicate stress or disease.

• Yellow leaves
• Falling branches and limbs
• Damaged bark with sap oozing out of it
• Insect infestation

If your tree is showing these signs, you should remove it immediately before it falls on another person's property.

Contact a tree removal specialist for tree trimming and removal to ensure a good standing between you and your neighbour.

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