WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR LANDLORDS WITH JAPANESE KNOTWEED?

What is Japanese Knotweed?

Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is a fast-growing, invasive plant species that can cause significant damage to properties and land. Its extensive root system and rapid growth can undermine building structures, walls, and pavements. Therefore, if you’re a landlord with Japanese Knotweed growing on your property, you should look at remediating the plant as soon as possible.

Landlords with Japanese Knotweed

Why is it important for landlords to be aware?

As a landlord, it is essential to understand the risks associated with Japanese Knotweed, not only for maintaining your property’s value but also for adhering to legal responsibilities.

  • Legal Responsibilities: Under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, failing to control Japanese Knotweed on your property can lead to legal action.
  • Impact on Property Value: Properties affected by Japanese Knotweed can see a significant reduction in value, as mortgage lenders may be reluctant to provide loans.
  • Damage to Property: The plant’s roots can infiltrate cracks in foundations, walls, and drains, leading to costly repairs.
  • Tenant Issues: If left untreated, tenants may raise complaints or terminate leases due to safety concerns.

What should I do If I'm a landlord with Japanese Knotweed?

Identify: Learn how to recognise Japanese Knotweed on your property.

  • Act Quickly: If you suspect Japanese Knotweed, contact a professional immediately to assess and confirm.
  • Hire Experts: Work with accredited specialists to create a management plan. DIY methods are often ineffective and can worsen the spread.
  • Inform Tenants: Keep tenants informed about the steps being taken to control the issue.

 

homeowners with japanese knotweed

Property Site Survey & report

RICS Certified

Our Surveyors are Certified Surveyors of Japanese knotweed.

10 Year Guarantee

We pride ourselves on our 100% success rate for herbicide treatments. However, Japanese knotweed can lay dormant, so we offer a 10 year insurance backed guarantee.

Lender Approved

Japanese Knotweed Expert is an accredited member of the Property Care Association.

Cost of a site survey?

We would recommend a survey as this can be as cheap as £260 + VAT depending on the location and size of the garden. By having a survey you can answer confidently when filling out the Ta6, along with no concern for any further litigation as you are paying for an “Expert report” and we have a £5m Professional Indemnity insurance.

 

If the survey does identify Japanese knotweed within the vicinity of the garden we can create a management plan and quote for the work. Along with this we can ensure all necessary paperwork is completed and we can purchase a 10year insurance backed guarantee to ensure the sale goes through unhindered. We are also happy to speak to potential purchases and solicitors on your behalf so that the sale proceeds and you don’t have any additional hassle at what can be a very stressful time.

 

If you are a landlord with Japanese Knotweed growing on your property and would like some advice please give us a ring or drop us an email.

Japanese Knotweed Surveyor

need more information?

Part 35 Report

What Your Legal Rights Are

Have you found Japanese knotweed on your property? Not sure if you are able to make a claim? Who is legally responsible?

Japanese Knotweed Removal

Identifying Japanese knotweed

If you need help identifying Japanese knotweed, you should be aware that it will look different depending upon the time of the year.

Japanese Knotweed Herbicide

Residential Removal Options

See what treatment options are available for residential properties.

Planning Permission

What to do if Your Neighbour Has Japanese Knotweed?

If you think that your neighbour has Japanese knotweed, and that this may potentially spread to your garden, here is a step-by-step guide for tips on what to do next.

Removal of Japanese Knotweed using Combined Treatment Method

Frequently Asked Questions

If you can't find an answer to your question, call and speak to a member of our team.

Identifying Japanese Knotweed

Articles

Keep up to date with the latest news about Japanese knotweed.

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Don't spend money that you don't have to. Send us some photos of the suspected Japanese knotweed, and we will identify the plant for you, let us put your mind at ease.

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