Attractive trees can cause future problems
SOME OF the most beautiful streets in the world are lined with trees - but buying a house in a leafy area can lead to views being blocked, fences damaged and sunlight lost.
Wayward roots can disrupt drainage pipes, branches can interfere with power lines and leaves can block gutters.
‘‘When looking at a property, it’s wise to consider the possible impact of your potential neighbour’s trees before making an offer,’’ Real Estate Authority chief executive Kevin Lampen-Smith says.
‘‘The people who planted them may not have carefully thought through their placement and how big they might grow, which is even more reason for you to think about what may happen in the future.
‘‘If the trees on a property you’re considering and those next door are large and well-established,
there’s a good chance that their roots may cause problems as well as their branches.
‘‘Tree roots are out of sight, out of mind until they start to snake their way into retaining walls, foundations or drains - at which point they become difficult to ignore and expensive to re-route.’’
Homeowners can do whatever they wish with trees on their properties within the bounds of the law, which says you have the right to the ordinary use and enjoyment of your land.
But if a tree is protected, because it is historic, considered to be significant or needed to prevent erosion, you may need to get resource consent before doing anything to it.
‘‘Remember, you can’t unreasonably interfere with your neighbours’ use and enjoyment of their land, which means that you can’t let your trees become a problem at their place and vice versa,’’ Lampen-Smith says.
He recommends new homeowners take a deep breath before swinging their chainsaws at branches crossing their boundary lines.
‘‘How would you feel if someone moved in next door to you and started hacking away at your trees without consulting you first? It would be wise to give your neighbours time to warm to you before tackling their trees.’’
Legally, you are entitled to trim any branches or roots from a tree (or large shrub, or plant) that encroach on your property unless they are protected, in which case you may need resource consent.
But it’s always a good idea to talk to your neighbour first and consult an expert, like an arborist, who can prune the tree without destroying it.
If the trees are causing a nuisance - blocking views and/or light - or present a potential hazard, and you’re unable to reach a resolution with the neighbour, you can apply to the District Court for an order to get the tree trimmed or removed.
For independent guidance and information on buying or selling, check out settled.govt.nz.