"Indisputably the UK's most aggressive, destructive and invasive plant."
This is why it is so important for you to understand your legal rights. You also need to understand your options prior to buying a property infected by Japanese knotweed.
Buying a house with japanese Knotweed?- here is what you need to know!
"Indisputably the UK's most aggressive, destructive and invasive plant."
This is why it is so important for you to understand your legal rights. You also need to understand your options prior to buying a property infected by Japanese knotweed.
Japanese knotweed can decrease the value of a property by up to 20%. Also, treatment costs for Japanese knotweed start from £3000! This instant decrease can cause trouble with certain lenders, who won’t lend to an affected property without a treatment plan in place. Worse than this, if you find out that you have Japanese knotweed after purchasing the property, you are now responsible for the treatment. (For more information on the legal side of Japanese knotweed.)
A site survey will identify a quote for treatment costs. In which, could be used to reduce the asking price of the property when negotiating with the sellers. If you are looking to renegotiate, or need assistance getting a mortgage it is imperative that you organise a professional Japanese knotweed site survey.
It is important to know prior to purchasing that any Japanese knotweed will become your responsibility as the new owner. This is only if you are made aware of the presence of Japanese knotweed prior to purchasing the property. It will ultimately be up to you to organise treatment. If you are interested in purchasing a property with Japanese knotweed, you should be able to negotiate for a discounted price to reflect future costs.
If you purchase a property that the TA6 form has confirmed as having no Japanese knotweed and there is, then you are well within your rights to claim for any costs and/or damages.
If the property that you are looking to purchase already has a treatment plan in place you will need to ensure that the treatment plan has an insurance-backed guarantee. We recommend a 10 year guarantee, with 3 being the absolute minimum. An insurance-backed guarantee will be a must for lenders, as well as allowing you peace of mind. You can be assured that you will not have to deal with the problem if it grows back the following year. If a treatment plan is in place, ensure that the sellers are choosing the right management plan, instead of a cheap fix.
Have you found Japanese knotweed on your property? Not sure if you are able to make a claim? Who is legally responsible?
If you need help identifying Japanese knotweed, you first must know that it will look different depending on the current season.
See what treatment options are available for residential properties.
If you think that your neighbour has Japanese knotweed, and may potential spread to your garden, here is a step-by-step guide for tips on what to do next.
If you can't find an answer to your question, call and speak to a member of our team.
Keep up to date with the latest news about Japanese knotweed.