Japanese Knotweed

Many of you will have read in the press about the highly invasive plant Japanese Knotweed which has caused problems with mortgage lenders; outbreaks have been discovered throughout the area. The problems are due to the fact that it produces a thick mass of growth which can damage walls, drains or other structures.

Not only this but roots grow to 3m in depth and it is really difficult to get rid of. The normal method being repeated application of herbicide by a specialist contractor or wholesale removal of the soil and subsoil.

Different mortgage lenders will take differing views but the undisputed fact is that dealing with it is a costly matter and certainly on a par with significant problems of dampness or a badly defective roof.

So what does it look like? Arrow shaped leaves witha flat bottom and distinctive woody stems. Much of the growth will die back over winter. See . http://www.bridgend.gov.uk/web/groups/public/documents/form/001909.pdf for more info.

When carrying out a Survey inspection it is important to look for Japanese Knotweed not just in the garden but in neighbouring gardens as it spreads quickly and the last thing you want is to be taking action against your new neighbours. If it did come to that your Solicitor would be able to advise as to your rights under the tort of nuisance. Private Nuisance is a continuous, unlawful and indirect interference with the use or enjoyment of land, or of some right over or in connection with land.