"bilbo-bj" wrote in message
s.com...
There is a Silver Birch tree 3 metres from my house on suspected
shrinkabkle sub-soil. The tree is appox 12m high and is on Coucil
property. I am concerned that the tree could cause damage to the
house. I have written to the Council asking them to inspect it and
possibly replace it with a smaller tree. They have written back
advising they will reduce the crown in June next year and then inspect
it every 3 years. Is this satisfactory or should I still be concerned?
Any advise would be most welcome!
--
bilbo-bj
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posted via www.GardenBanter.co.uk

I think you will get different opinions here - it sounds a bit close, but
much depends on the location and type of soil, and your house/foundation
construction. To be sure, you would need a site survey from a surveyor with
experience of trees.

Irrespective of any such opinions, I would do one thing first:

Write back to the Council, tell them again of your concern about *their*
tree.
You are formally advising them of the possible harm that it may cause to
your house. Now that you have informed them, and they have agreed to
inspect the tree, you will of course be holding them liable for any damage
it causes in the future.
Send it by recorded delivery to the person you are dealing with at the
Council, with their name and official title.

It will make them take the matter seriously - Councils don't like their
staff to lumber them with legal responsibilities and they will probably give
it a more thorough survey.

Send a copy to your insurance company for information, so they can't accuse
you of withholding material information. It shouldn't affect your
premium - they will see that you are a responsible customer.

If it *is* safe, then of course you will be reassured, and can enjoy a
fine-looking tree maintained by someone else..

- Arthur