Many property owners believe they can trim branches or eliminate roots that extend beyond their boundaries. It’s not a problem Aren’t you?
It’s not exactly.
Certain branches aren’t able to be cut using saws. In court cases homeowners who harm branches near by when they do the task in a way that isn’t correct can face serious penalties for financial damage. Here are some real-world instances that show the risks.
The Myth of Patel & Booska
Patel the owner of the property, engaged the services of a tree surgeon in 1994 to cut the roots of the Monterey Pine belonging to his neighbor Booska. Patel said the tree’s roots were causing damage to his concrete.
It was the contractor who dug trenches of 3 feet across the property line, effectively eliminating the roots that held the tree thriving. Booska was required to cover the cost of removing the tree.
Booska was successful in court. Patel was ordered to pay a sum which was substantial in the amount of restitution.
What’s the lesson in this case? What lesson can we learn from this?
Rony and Costa – Another costly case
Now, fast forward to 2012. In this instance the owner hired an unlicensed day laborer who didn’t have a authorization to cut branches that strayed across the boundary of his property. Instead of taking care to manage the issue, the worker aggressively cut down the trees. The results were disastrous.
What did the result look like? What was the final result?
Be aware that an ill-advised DIY trimming could result in an expensive court case.
What can we take away from this?
You are entitled to defend your home, however, you also have obligations.
- Trim branches and roots in excess of the property boundaries. Cut only roots and branches that cross the boundary of your property.
- Illegal to destroy or damage any trees belonging to your neighbour. If you cause harm or even death to the tree you cut after trimming it or cutting it down, you could be legally responsible.
- Unprofessional hiring can cost you thousands of dollars. Professionals with certification will know the best way to cut your property’s boundaries in a way that is legal and take care of your trees.
Why do you need to hire a Certified Arborist
If you’re not sure which tree to cut hiring an arborist who is certified is the best option. They are certified to:
- Cut the tree in a way that doesn’t harm its health.
- Be sure to protect yourself by adhering to the guidelines of your industry and local laws.
- Expert assistance on how best to solve disputes between neighbors over trees.
Arborwise Tree Service
Arborwise Tree Service can help homeowners get through these challenging situations. When you call us to request estimation, our staff will be able to explain your rights and obligations.
Choose one of these services:
Our team consists of professionals who are certified and have expertise in managing tree problems legally safely and ethically.
Find out the reasons Arborwise Tree Service is rated 5-stars on Google and the reason why a lot of homeowners rely on us for their trees.
Final Word
It’s not enough to just cut the branches that hang on your land. Property rights are a responsibility. Be sure to make educated choices. Ask experts for advice when you’re not sure who know the rules and the trees.
This post was written by a professional arborist at Tree Trimming Largo FL. Robert Miller is the owner of Arbor Wise Professional Tree Care, a locally owned and operated tree service company that offers superb lawn care by the most experienced Arborists. Arborwise Tree Services is a tree removal company that offers stump removal, tree pruning, stump grinding, fertilization, and tree restoration. We have an extraordinary lawn care industry notoriety covering the Pinellas county area.









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