Overhanging trees and branches: Everything you need to know
Do you have trees on your property? Then you may have overhanging trees and branches that extend into your neighbour’s side. While it is your responsibility to maintain your trees, it’s also important to consider the impact they may have on your neighbours. Simpson Arboriculture are here to help! Here’s what you need to know about overhanging branches and what you can do about them.
Understanding Your Responsibilities
As a property owner, you have a responsibility to ensure that your trees do not pose a hazard to your neighbours or their property. This includes ensuring that any overhanging trees and branches do not cause damage or obstruct views. Failure to maintain your trees could result in legal action being taken against you.
Your Right to Abate
If you have overhanging branches that are causing problems, you have the right to trim them back on your side of the boundary, providing there are no Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or conservation area restrictions. This is known as the “right to abate” or “self-help” and is a common law principle. However, it’s important to ensure that you don’t damage the tree or cause harm to it in the process. It is always best to consult a professional such as Simpson Arboriculture for any tree surgery work. If a tree is subject to a TPO or is within the boundary of a conservation area, an application would have to be sent to the district council to seek permission.
Obtaining Permission
Before trimming any overhanging branches, it’s important to speak to your neighbour and obtain their permission. While you may have the right to trim back the branches, you don’t have the right to enter your neighbour’s property to do so without their permission.
Seeking Professional Help
When it comes to tree surgery, it is always best to seek professional help from a reputable tree surgery company. A qualified arborist or tree surgeon can assess the situation and safely trim the branches. Simpson Arboriculture are well established in Lincolnshire and have many years’ experience in a wide range of tree surgery.
Legal Action
If your neighbour refuses to allow you to trim back the overhanging branches or if the trimming could potentially harm the tree, you may need to seek legal assistance to resolve the matter. This could involve mediation or taking legal action against your neighbour.
Conclusion
Overhanging branches can be a cause of frustration between neighbours. However, don’t be put off. There are ways to deal with the problem in a positive and amicable way. Simpson Arboriculture have much experience in this and can meet with you and your neighbours to discuss options. We can advise on the best course of action and ensure that the health of the tree is not compromised.
By understanding your responsibilities as a property owner and seeking advise from a qualified tree surgeon such as Simpson Arboriculture, you can maintain your trees and keep your neighbours happy. Finally, remember to always communicate with your neighbour and obtain their permission before trimming any overhanging branches.
To find out more and to get some advise from our experienced team, get in touch with us today via our website.
