BLOGS

There are many benefits to keeping well-maintained trees on your home's property, including privacy, shade, and a source for fresh fruit. While many people enjoy having trees in their yard, your neighbors may not appreciate yours. Here are some tips and tricks to remember when planting and maintaining trees on your property that will help avoid disputes and you to be a good neighbor.

Ownership

Not everyone knows where their property lines lay, so there may be some confusion about who owns a tree. To avoid these incidents, consider getting a surveyor to mark your property lines before you plant a new tree. This could also be beneficial in revealing information about your property that you weren't aware of beforehand. Property surveyors can also help settle disputes over ownership of existing trees. If a tree crosses the property line into both your and your neighbor's yard, then both of you would need to share the responsibility of maintaining it.

Wandering Branches

Even if a tree is within your property lines, its branches can cross over into your neighbor's yard. If this happens, don't be surprised if your neighbor cuts your tree back to be within your property line. But, if your neighbor trims back your tree too much and the tree declines or dies as a result, then you can hold them responsible to replace it.

Limb Breakage

Imagine the damage that a tree or large limb can cause if it breaks and falls. If this type of damage is due to severe weather, such as heavy winds, it's out of your control. However, you can be held responsible for damage to a neighbor's property if your tree was sick or dying and you didn't maintain or remove it.

Fallen Leaves

If you have a deciduous tree that sheds its leaves annually, you may also find yourself with a neighbor who will complain about those leaves being in their yard. Ultimately, this isn't your responsibility; you have no control over natural debris that collects on your neighbor's property. However, to maintain a healthy relationship with your neighbors, you might consider offering to help them clean up their yard.

Trees are a wonderful addition to any property and community. With a few simple steps, anyone can enjoy both the benefits of having trees and happy neighbors.

Green Haven Homes is here to help you find the perfect home for you and your family. Get in touch with us today to see what we can do for you!