tpo

[jamme]

We moved into an old house and my neighbour is threatening us for compensation if we do not fell the protected tree.

[Sammy Snake]

What do you mean?  If a tree is protected and therefore can't be felled, who are they expecting to claim compensation from?

And more to the point, WHY are they threatening for compensation, for what reason?  Surely the tree was there long before you moved in - are they just trying it on, hoping you will cough up?

[honkytonkman]

Your neighbours are welcome in law to trim off any offending bits that hang into their garden BUT... if the tree has a preservation order from the council, there is little they can do to get it taken down. They would need VERY convincing evidence that tree is damaging their property.

For example, if cracks are appearing in the walls it's hard to prove it's a tree causing it or just natural subsidence which is very common. Besides, to remove the trees could cause even more damage, as trees suck up hundreds of gallons of water which, should the tree be felled, will sit in the soil and cause 'heave' from waterlogging.

My guess is that he's trying it on as you've just moved in. Ignore him. I've never known a bad tree.. just shirty neighbours..

[jean88]

yes, I agreed. Some people just have to get a life instead of going round threatening people. The trees are not your responsiblities as u dont have the right to touch them. Tell your neighbour to speak to the council,end of. If you have anymore troubles with this nasty neighbour you could sue your vendor who sold you the house. By law if they had had problems with this neighbour in the past they should have informed you before the sale.

[ianess]

Tell him to go take a jump.    The tree was there long before you, and probably him.   Aren't new neighbours a joy to be so welcoming and wonderful?

[Octavius]

How do you know it is a protected tree?

If there is a TPO on it, perhaps you could ask someone from the council (planners will have a record of the TPO) to come around and see what (if any) the problem is with the neighbour - it might be a genuine complaint and therefore the council will make any decision and write to you both accordingly.

If the neighbour still harps on, then let him amploy the services of a professional who will advise on what is happening to his proprty and whether it is the tree causing it.

Good luck.