Everyone loves having the beautiful addition of trees in your yard; they give shade from the scorching sun and enhance the beauty of your property – and these are just a few of the benefits of having trees on your property.
However, when our trees overgrow and become very large, they can have lots of branches hanging everywhere, creating problems. Branches can fall onto your home, car, or your neighbour’s property.
In this case, you might have several questions about the dangers of overhanging trees. It is essential to know your rights and what you can and cannot do.
Here is what you might need to consider:
Property Damage
The most crucial issue of overhanging trees is that a branch can easily damage the surrounding property, no matter how small.
In windy and stormy weather, a heavy-laden branch can hit your windows or roof, which can damage your property as well as your neighbours. If your overhanging branch damages any public amenities, you might even run into legal issues.
Pest Invasions
Large branches attract pests such as termites, ants, armyworms, fleas and ticks. These pests can slowly get to the tree’s trunk from the branches, eventually killing your trees.
Also, the branches become weak due to these pests, such as termites, and can fall onto your property. These tiny creatures can even invade your house. You might also need a pest professional to assist in keeping your tree, your family and yourself healthy.
Property Disputes
Overhanging branches is one of the main reasons why neighbours have disputes. The branches of your trees could move onto your neighbour’s property, and they might find this frustrating because of the falling leaves, debris, breaking branches, attracting birds and multiple other reasons.
You will be liable if your tree creates a problem with your neighbour, so you better take care of any of your overhanging branches. You may also have to pay for repairs if their car or drainage gets damaged.
You are responsible for your trees, but if your branches are hanging in your neighbour’s yard, they can cut those branches. Before cutting down the branches, you may require the council’s permission if it is a protected tree. So, it is better to contact the local council to know if you can trim your tree.
If you are still unsure whether you need to remove overhanging branches or not, get in touch with a tree service provider. If you live in Melbourne, Same Day Tree Works is the best and most affordable tree service provider. They can give you the best advice on your trees, and they are also both licensed and insured.
Same Day Tree Works offers a range of tree services, including tree removal, hedge trimming, tree trimming, stump removal, overhanging branches removal and others. An arborist can also help you get permission from the council if you need it. Remember, DIY tree pruning or removal is a bad idea that can lead to even more damage and loss.
