(1) Talk to the owner of the tree and see if you can settle the issue
amicably. Explain your problem and propose solutions and you might get
agreement or even assistance. Even if you are not on good terms with
your neighbor, you should let him/her know what you are planning. Rude
surprises generate rude surprises pointed the other way.

(2) If that doesn't work, check with a lawyer as to what you can do. I
suspect (disclaimer: I'm not a lawyer, and I don't even know what state
you're in, or for that matter, whether you're even in the same country I
am) that you would be within your rights to excavate around your pipes
and slab to cut roots that are invasive, as long as your excavation is
on your property and as long as you don't damage the tree to the extent
that it becomes a hazard. Trees can withstand a fair amount of root
pruning, although if all the roots are removed on one side of the tree,
it could be subject to falling over in a strong wind, creating a hazard
to property nearby.

(3) If you don't know basics about trees, consult a professional
arborist. Your initial suggestion is not likely to be kept hidden, since
the dead tree will be taken down and cut up.




Bill wrote:
In article , says...

Well the thing is lifting the pavement and its roots are crawling into my
drains and blocking them.

Also it is sucking all the water from the subsoil under the house and cracks
are appearing in the walls.

I want to get rid of it before something catastrophic happens!




I suggest you talk to a lawyer, you may find you have legal recourse
under the laws where you're at. If you get caught destroying somebody
elses property, you'll find yourself talking to a lawyer anyway.

Bill