Neighbour's tree causing problems

[Dillyplum]

I have been in my garage today which is very damp and I realise some of the timbers have rotted in one place. This area is where my neighbour's tree, which is planted right on the boundary line, is rubbing against the edge of the garage. I am sure this has caused the problem and obviously will need to find someone to fix it.
I have previously had some very unpleasant exchanges with the neighbour who is very defensive and in the past has been quite abusive when I have politely mentioned any problems. It really doesn't help being a woman alone, and I don't do confrontation very well. Neighbours are a couple in their early sixties (as am I) and tend to back each other up against me.
Has anyone any advice on how I should deal with this please as I really think the tree needs to be removed.
Thanks for any help

[VHG]

You have no right to tell them to remove their tree.

However you do have a right to cut of ANY branch that is overhanging the fence as it is your side of the fence.

Why dont you get a surgeon in to see if the tree is still ok, and maybe if it is not the tree surgeon can go round and offer to cut it down for them.

That way you dont have to talk to them.

If they tree is ok then get the surgeon just to cut off everything your side of the fence.

[bushbaby_de]

Check its not a TPO tree or in a conservation area before you go chopping bits off it as you may need permission from the Council. If it is causing a serious nuisance then you could potentially take civil legal action against them but it is an incredibly expensive route that has no guarantee of being successful.

[Dillyplum]

Thanks so much for responding but the tree trunk is actually rubbing against the garage roof - and not the branches, so that means the tree would have to be removed to solve the problem. The tree is still growing so the trunk is getting bigger and the problem will increase.

[The Builder]

I'm sure VHG is quite right about the legalities Dilly. This is quite a common problem.
The neighbours may have a right to have their tree there, but no right at all to cause damage to your garage. You have every right in Law to complain to them, and have them recompense you. The trouble is of course that the last thing anyone needs is an ongoing battle with the neighbours.
As a builder, if I was asked to deal with it, I'd certainly ask to take a look, with them, from their side, to explain the problem.
Builders are thick-skinned by necessity. Some of us can be quite diplomatic. Find yourself a local builder/handyman who would be prepared to talk it over with them on your behalf.

[woodchopper]

Bang a half dozen copper nails into somewhere on it discreetly - that will kill it off and they may not want it after that.

[woodchopper]

Actually copper nails dont work - bore into the root with an augur and fill it with neat roundup. Best done in the dead of night and preferably when the mob next doors are on holiday.

[boxtops]

Not really recommended, woodchopper! Dilly, ring the council, get their tree bloke round to come and have a look.

[atalanta]

Tell them you intend to make a claim on thier house insurance, and ask for the name of their insurer.