Do I have a problem, with trees/foundation?

Discussion in 'Trees' started by tac1, Jun 25, 2008.

  1. tac1

    tac1 Apprentice Gardener

    Joined:
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    Good day, I am hoping that someone is able to help with what may be a problem. I am concerned with:
    1. Actual damage that may occur to building and wall.
    2. Consequence of neighbourâ??s trees upon my own insurance policy. I remember that when checking out various companies for buildings insurance, at renewal time, several specifically asked about trees within 40 feet. Although these trees are not in my garden is it likely that an insurance company will negate all/part of subsidence cover if informed â?? or upon claim if not informed?
    My next door neighbour has planted trees directly next to party wall and near building foundations. As the building is quite old I rather doubt that foundations are particularly deep.
    The party wall is now broken from top to bottom, directly between two conifers planted around 2m apart, 800mm or so from the wall, and currently around 2m tall.
    More worryingly, a bay tree is also planted 1m from the wall and is just 2m from the foundations of our house. Although presently 2.5-3m high at this time this appears to be a vigorous grower and I understand that bay trees mature to around 12m high and 10m wide.
    Worse, there is a eucalyptus planted some 2m from the wall and just 2m from the foundations. I understand that this tree can grow to 20m height, and should never be planted anywhere near a house as it will suck moisture from foundations, leading to a real risk of subsidence, particularly on a clay soil â?? we are in the SE, near Hythe in Kent.
    Should I be worried, and, if so, what is best course of action.
    Our concern has been voiced on a number of occasions but without response nor action.
    Many thanks
     
  2. vegman

    vegman Gardener

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    Ask avice from your Town Hall, ask for the Building Consultancy department.

    Problems can occur with really huge trees as they say there is as much below as there is above. Smaller trees would not harm foundations and conifers are shallow rooting but watch for willows etc although wont damage foundations will be attracted to sewer pipes and root inside them causing blockages.

    Potential problems come with dead trees as the roots rot and leave cavities in the soil leading to sinking.
     
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