A MUM has been urged to leave her neighbour’s pink blossom tree ”alone” despite it overhanging into her garden.
Katie Moudallal took to TikTok to seek advice after insisting the gorgeous tree was affecting her palm tree and feared the tree was going to ”snap one day”.
Mum Katie took to TikTok to seek advice – but many urged her to leave the tree ‘alone’[/caption]
The TikToker explained that the pink blossoms are beautiful only for a short period of time[/caption]
According to the mum, who posts under the username @katiemoudallal, the stunning tree overhangs into her space ”about four or five metres”.
The neighbour’s tree, she said in the video, ”cuts right through the top” of their palm tree by the fence – which means it’s ”no longer growing”.
”I am so scared that it could just snap one day, it looks really heavy.”
Sharing her woes online, the mum said she ”can’t communicate” with the person living next door to get their permission to cut the tree down.
”And I know there are some crazy court cases where neighbours are sent fines because they’ve cut down someone else’s tree or they’ve put up a fence.
”Google tells me that it’s fine to cut it back to the borderline – I think that this tree needs going back a lot further than that,” Katie shared her verdict.
While many people said the tree was ”pretty” – and Katie agreed – she explained that the blossoms are beautiful for a short period of time.
”Like snow, it’s pretty for a while – and then it drops, and turns into brown mush.”
In order to prevent overhanging branches turning into furious rows between neighbours, Natalie Welsh, head of property at HCB Widdows Mason shared what your rights are in this tricky situation.
“It can be really frustrating when branches or plants from your neighbour’s garden start to spill over into your space”, she told The Sun.
“In England and Wales, you’re allowed to cut back any branches that cross onto your property, but only up to the boundary line.
“Just make sure you don’t step onto your neighbour’s land or damage the tree itself.”
When trimming a tree back, you are not allowed to lean into your neighbour’s garden, since that can be considered trespassing.
Natalie advised that before taking any drastic action, it’s best to have a friendly chat with your neighbour first.
Politely explain to them that the overhanging branches are a problem for you, and let them know that you plan to cut them back.
Rules on fences and trees
Fences:
- Height Restrictions: In most areas, fences in front gardens should not exceed one metre in height without planning permission. For rear gardens, the limit is generally two metres.
- Shared Fences: If a fence is shared with a neighbour, both parties are typically responsible for its maintenance and any costs associated with repairs or replacement.
- Building Regulations: Ensure that any new fence complies with local building regulations and does not obstruct visibility for drivers or pedestrians.
Trees:
- Ownership: Trees located on your property are your responsibility, including any damage they may cause. Conversely, trees on a neighbour’s property are their responsibility.
- Overhanging Branches: You are entitled to trim branches that overhang into your property, but only up to the boundary line. The cut branches should be offered back to the tree owner.
- Protected Trees: Some trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Check with your local council before undertaking any work on a tree, as unauthorised work can result in fines.
- Roots: If tree roots from a neighbour’s tree cause damage to your property, you have the right to remove the roots. However, it is advisable to discuss this with your neighbour first to avoid disputes.
Always consult your local council or a legal adviser for specific regulations and advice.
Social media divide
Posted just three days ago, the clip has already taken the internet by storm, amassing close to 50k views – and sparking a fierce debate.
While many flocked to comments to reassure Katie she was within her rights to cut a part of three, many begged her not to do it.
One viewer said: ”I’d rather keep the blossom. very messy but so pretty.”
Another agreed, urging: ”Please leave pink tree alone. it’s soo pretty.”
”It is so pretty I’d call it an asset,” someone else chimed in.
