An overgrown tree close to your home can be more than just an eyesore—it can become a serious concern for your property’s safety, structure, and long-term maintenance. At NS Tree Surgery Godalming, we work with homeowners across Godalming, Surrey to manage trees that are encroaching on buildings, causing damage, or presenting risks during storms. If you’re dealing with a tree that’s grown too close for comfort, here’s what you need to know.
Why Overgrown Trees Near a Property Can Be a Problem
Trees are vital for the environment and add aesthetic value to a home, but when their size isn’t kept in check, they can lead to a range of issues.
Potential problems include:
- Root damage to foundations, driveways, or underground services
- Blocked gutters from falling leaves, seeds, and debris
- Increased risk of storm damage, with large branches falling onto roofs or windows
- Reduced natural light entering the property
- Moisture build-up against walls, leading to damp or moss problems
- Pest access, as overhanging branches provide bridges for rodents or squirrels
Knowing how to manage an overgrown tree near your house can prevent these risks and help you maintain a safe, attractive garden.
Assess the Situation
Start by evaluating the tree’s size, condition, and distance from your property. Consider:
- How close are the branches to your roof, windows, or guttering?
- Are any limbs visibly dead, decayed, or hanging dangerously?
- Is the tree species known for invasive roots or fast growth?
- Are you experiencing any signs of subsidence or cracking near the tree?
It’s advisable to monitor changes over time and document any developments, especially if the tree’s position may be affecting your building’s structure or drainage.
What You Should Avoid Doing
It may be tempting to tackle the issue yourself, but improper tree work can be hazardous and may result in:
- Personal injury from falling branches or unsteady ladders
- Damage to the tree, making it unstable or unhealthy
- Breach of tree preservation orders (TPOs) without permission
- Unintended harm to property or neighbouring land
Without the correct training and equipment, DIY tree work near a home is rarely advisable.
When to Call a Professional Tree Surgeon
A qualified tree surgeon from NS Tree Surgery Godalming can provide a professional assessment and determine the safest, most appropriate action to manage the overgrown tree.
Professional services may include:
- Crown reduction to reduce the height and spread of the tree
- Selective pruning to remove overhanging or hazardous limbs
- Pollarding or thinning to encourage healthy regrowth while controlling size
- Tree removal, if the tree poses a significant safety or structural risk
- Root management, especially for trees affecting nearby drains or foundations
We always ensure that our work complies with local council regulations and health and safety standards.
Planning Permission and Tree Preservation Orders
Before undertaking any work, it’s important to check whether the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or is located within a conservation area. In Godalming, Surrey, this is relatively common, and unauthorised work on protected trees can result in fines or legal issues.
At NS Tree Surgery Godalming, we handle all necessary checks and paperwork on your behalf, ensuring compliance from start to finish.
Preventative Maintenance is Key
Once the tree has been brought under control, ongoing maintenance will help prevent future problems. Regular inspections and light pruning are usually sufficient to keep growth in check and the tree healthy.
Benefits of regular tree care include:
- Maintaining a safe distance from buildings and windows
- Enhancing natural light into your home and garden
- Reducing seasonal mess from leaves or seeds
- Preventing decay and disease within the canopy
We offer scheduled tree maintenance programmes tailored to your property and the species of tree.
Conclusion
An overgrown tree near your house may seem like a slow-growing concern, but it can quickly lead to structural damage, safety risks, and costly repairs if left unmanaged. Acting early and seeking professional advice will help you protect your home, garden, and the long-term health of your trees.
If you’re facing an overgrown tree issue in Godalming, Surrey, contact NS Tree Surgery Godalming. Our expert team is ready to assess your situation and provide safe, efficient, and fully compliant tree care services tailored to your property.
Call us on: 01483 967 989
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