Disputes over trees are a common source of neighbourly conflict, with more than half of Brits reporting disagreements, according to a survey by Saga Home Insurance. Overhanging branches are the top issue for 30% of respondents, while 28% struggle with leaves blowing into their gardens, and 15% face problems with tree roots.
Anna Thunstrom, head of home insurance at Saga, advises that homeowners have legal rights to trim overhanging branches or roots up to the property line, provided they do not trespass onto the neighbour's land. However, the cuttings still belong to the tree's owner, so you must offer them back or dispose of them only with the owner's permission.
Illegally cutting down a neighbour's tree can lead to severe penalties, including fines up to £20,000 for protected trees, civil claims, legal fees, and replacement costs. In extreme cases, criminal charges may apply. Thunstrom emphasises that entering a neighbour's property to resolve the issue yourself is never advisable.
If a tree obstructs natural light to your home, legal recourse is limited. Thunstrom recommends speaking directly to the neighbour with kindness to reach a compromise. If that fails, local councils can provide mediation services, though you may need to pay for the mediator's time.
The survey also found that just over one in 10 people reported damage to their own trees by a neighbour. In all cases, communication and a willingness to find a reasonable solution are key to avoiding costly disputes.
