Neighbours Succulent Seeding And Growing In Roof Valleys . Damage To Mortar

[Suspi]

Neighbours succulent has seeded and taken  a hold in the roof valleys around the windows.  This has losened the mortar and no doubt will cause water ingress in the near future.  To rectify it will need scaffolding and a professional to fix.   Is there anyway we can claim from them the expense.  

[bookbinder]

The first thing to do is to point out to the neighbour what damage their succulent is causing, and describe what measures you feel that you should take to minimise any damage.

Secondly, ask the neighbour if they are prepared to take the necessary remedial measures, at their own expense.

If they decline to do anything about the problem, tell them that you feel that you should rectify the situation. Ask them if they would be prepared to contribute towards the expense of rectifying the situation. If they decline to do anything at all, get the advice of a building surveyor, and ask him to put a figure on the costs. Show his report to your neighbour.

Claiming something from the neighbour could be tricky. Ask a solicitor for an opinion on this. If you get nowhere with recompense from your neighbour, you could always try the Small Claims Court. It's not all that expensive, and just the threat of being taken to court might, just, push your neighbour into making a contribution. Best of luck.

[Suspi]

Many thanks for your wise answer.  No one likes bad relationships with neighbours.  Will sit down with other half to workout which way is best route.   We have in the past pointed out the succulent growing on the roof.  Hope to come to a amicable solution. 

[barry1010]

For the neighbours to be responsible you would have to show that the damage was reasonably foreseeable and within their control

I doubt you have any claim against them.