So you are looking to sell a property with Japanese Knotweed? You may not know but Japanese Knotweed is the most invasive plant species in the UK. Therefore, this means there are a few steps to follow when dealing with this weed on a property.
So you are looking to sell a property with Japanese Knotweed? You may not know but Japanese Knotweed is the most invasive plant species in the UK. Therefore, this means there are a few steps to follow when dealing with this weed on a property.
The treatment of knotweed is extremely specific and requires a tailored treatment plant depending on the age of the weed. As well as this, it will depend on the depth on the rhizomes and volume of the weed. Following a survey from our certified surveyors, a treatment plan is put in to place. Also, we will make a decision on if the knotweed requires excavating, spraying with chemicals, or burning.
Previously a 7-metre rule was enforced by The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. These explained that a property with Japanese knotweed would require a treatment plan with a chartered company. To ensure the protection of our customers, regardless of your intention with your property, we provide a 10-year company guarantee. Alongside this, we can also provide 10-year insurance backed guarantees. This ensures that if you did choose to sell the property, we can support you and provide evidence that the Japanese knotweed does have a treatment management plan in place.
In a new guidance document, RICS have explained that due to more in depth scientific understanding of Japanese knotweed, the 7-metre rule has been stopped. They further explain that the condition of the infrastructure and the strength of the foundation are also now additional factors. All of which, need to be contemplated when assessing the likelihood of Japanese knotweed affecting your property. On less sturdy structures such as garages, and boundary walls, Japanese knotweed is still likely to be able to cause structural damage.
The new guidance explains how it is now down to the surveyor’s professional judgement on if the Japanese knotweed has the potential to affect surrounding infrastructure. This new ruling is due to begin in March 2022.
If you have any further questions or require a survey to assess the possibility of Japanese knotweed causing damage to your property, call contact us on 01782479444 to get booked in with one of our specialist Japanese knotweed surveyors to conduct a survey.
