Overview

• Kevin Barzegar of Kaybridge Residential identifies English ivy, bamboo, Japanese knotweed and willow trees near houses as high-risk species that can depress asking prices.
• He details how ivy penetrates mortar and traps moisture, bamboo rhizomes spread several metres and damage paving and foundations, and willow roots seek drains and can reach up to three times the tree’s height.
• Japanese knotweed is singled out as the most consequential for transactions due to rapid growth and lender caution that often necessitates a professional, insurance-backed treatment plan.
• UK rules make it an offence to cause knotweed to spread into the wild, and encroachment onto neighbouring land can lead to civil claims and expensive removal.
• Eradication of knotweed commonly takes years and costs about £900 to £20,000, prompting advice to remove risky plants early, inspect gardens carefully and commission specialist surveys.