Our backdoor neighbor has a huge willow tree on our boundary. The tree has caused a lot of problems from drain blockage to rotten deck not to mention safety on our side of the fence. We have discussed this since 2009 but nothing has been done. She explained why she planted the tree close to the fence and boundary was to keep her lawn and property dry from storm water. Our house has flooded about 3 or 4 times since we've bought the place in December, 1999. What can we do?
By Patisepa T.
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First, Willow Trees drink a lot of water, so if there is flooding you may have cracked pipes (willow roots are known to do that) or another issues. Simply removing the tree (and it's roots) is not going to "fix" the flooding problems...
Regarding, the neighbor, I think your best course of action is to have an expert come and access the issue. Have them document their professional opinion that the Willow Tree roots are the cause of the damage on your property and send a copy to your neighbor. Keep a copy for your records, just in case you do have serious damage so you can show the neighbor knew the tree was an issue. Now it is no longer just YOU saying the tree is causing damage.
If they still refuse to remove the tree, since you already have property damage, and the potential for much more, check with your Home Owners Insurance company and see if they have any suggestions (I'm sure they'd love to get involved before you need to file a claim... and it's only a matter of time). They may be able to provide you with documentation showing that if there is damage, she is liable that you can give her as well. In some states, trees that cause root and limb damage are considered nuisance and you could file a legal claim to have it removed if you absolutely have to, but hopefully gently informing her of HER liability if the tree causes more damage, will help her see the light.
PS - you have every legal right to remove the roots that are on your side of the property line, so that is another option.... but it's expensive and you run the risk killing the tree or worse weakening it so it falls your way during the next wind-storm.
Maybe you could discuss that option with your neighbor as something you would have to do if the tree isn't removed and see what they say. And of course offering to help pay for the cost of the tree removal may sweeten the pot.
Dig down on your side of the property line till you expose some major roots, then cut into those roots and flood them with "Round-UP" herbicide. Buy a gallon of the concentrate, mix with the appropriate amount of water, and puur it all into the hole and over the roots !!! You should see results in a few days. Roundup kills virtually all plants, and nothing will grow in that spot for two to three years !!!
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