More than half of Brits have experienced disagreements with neighbours about trees, with overhanging branches being the most common issue, according to a Saga Home Insurance survey.
The survey found that 30% of disputes involve overhanging branches, while 28% relate to leaves falling into gardens and 15% concern tree root problems.
Legal Rights and Responsibilities
You are legally allowed to prune overhanging branches at your property boundary, but you must not trespass onto your neighbour's land to do so. The cut branches still belong to the tree's owner and must be disposed of responsibly.
If a neighbour's tree blocks natural light, there is very little you can do legally. Anna Thunstrom, head of home insurance at Saga, advises speaking directly to your neighbour first to find a reasonable solution.
Consequences of Illegal Action
Thunstrom warns that illegally cutting down a neighbour's tree could result in fines of up to £20,000 for protected trees. "In the most serious cases, unlawful tree removal can even result in criminal charges," she said.
Mediation Services
For unresolved disputes, local councils can help find mediators, though you may need to pay for their services.
