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Daily Record
23-05-2025
- General
- Daily Record
5 plants in your garden that can devalue your home and cost you money
The presence of these plants could cause issues when it comes to selling up A great garden is a real bonus when it comes to selling your house. Studies have shown that a well-maintained space outside can add between 10 and 20 per cent to your property's value and can see it selling faster too. But there are some plants that homeowners need to be careful keeping, as the mere presence of them in the garden can have the opposite effect. Invasive plant specialists say there are five plants which can devalue your house and make it more difficult to sell on. That's because these seemingly-innocent plants can wreak havoc on your garden, your neighbour's garden, and even your actual house if left unchecked. One couple had to demolish their conservatory when they noticed leaves sprouting from the floor of the threshold between the extension and the main house. On closer inspection it was found to be a 'running' variety of bamboo which had spread from a neighbour's garden. It was found under the concrete floors of the conservatory, growing inside the cavity walls and even extending into the brickwork of their home. Specialists at Environet, which deal with the removal of invasive plant species, said they are receiving significantly more calls about bamboo infestations than they do about Japanese Knotweed. In many cases they said, the damage to property is far greater too. Emily Grant, Director of invasive plant specialist Environet has warned that there are five plants which could impact your home's value. 1. Japanese Knotweed The most invasive non-native plant in the UK, Japanese knotweed can cause extensive damage to properties over time, pushing up through paths, patios, driveways, cracks in concrete and underground pipes. Environet estimates knotweed affects 4-5 per cent of homes in the UK, either directly or indirectly (neighbouring an affected property), equating to around a million households. Sellers are legally obliged to declare if they have knotweed when they sell a property via a Home Report. Emily said: "In most cases having Japanese knotweed on a property will make it more difficult to sell, not only because of the risk of damage to the house or garden, but also because there's still such a stigma around the plant. "Our research shows the vast majority of buyers will expect some kind of discount to reflect the cost of treatment and because the property is inevitably seen as less desirable than another which is knotweed-free. "The impact on value will depend on the size and maturity of the infestation and how close it is to the property, but a reduction of 5 – 10% is fairly typical.' 2. Bamboo Bamboo is popular for its elegance and hardiness, and as a natural screen in overlooked gardens, but has the potential to cause more damage than knotweed due to the speed and distance it can spread. Running varieties, which are the most problematic, send long lateral rhizomes or 'runners' extending out horizontally from the parent plant, with shoots popping up in new locations up to 10 metres away - often in the neighbouring gardens. Emily said: "We're receiving significantly more calls about bamboo infestations than Japanese knotweed these days, and in most cases the damage caused to property is far greater. "There was a particular craze for bamboo around 15 - 20 years ago and where it's been planted into the ground rather than in a pot, those plants are now fully mature and causing havoc. 'In my view, bamboo is at least as destructive as Japanese knotweed, due to the remarkable rate at which the runners grow, enabling it to spread and cause damage more quickly. "We've seen it growing out of living room skirting boards, kitchen floors and even sprouting out from behind an oven. In most cases the only way to deal with it once it's found its way into a building is to dig up the floor and remove every rhizome." '"Surveyors are flagging the issue up much more frequently on property surveys. If bamboo is present on a property you want to buy, or on the boundary, it's a good idea to get a bamboo survey so you understand any risk you're taking on and ensure there's no chance of a legal claim against you.' 3. Buddleia Buddleia, otherwise known as Butterfly Bush, was introduced from China in the late 1800s and is loved for its purple nectar-rich flowers which attract pollinators to the garden. However, it can be very invasive, with just one plant producing over a million seeds per year. Its roots require little soil, meaning will grow happily almost anywhere including in walls, chimneys and guttering. The roots and stems grow rapidly and if not removed quickly, the rapid expansion of woody growth can cause damage which is costly to repair, such as cracks in walls, damage to render and damp inside the property. "Buddleia loves to grow in cracks in walls and in masonry, paving and gutters – anywhere that it can take hold," said Emily. "If you spot it, remove it quickly before it causes serious damage. If it a property is badly impacted by buddleia, it will be flagged up a surveyor when you come to sell which could reduce the property's value." 4. Virginia Creeper Virginia Creeper is a fast-growing vine which can take over large areas in just one growing season. It spreads by seeds, rooting stems and via vigorous growth using tendrils and disk-like suckers that cling onto structures, blocking air vents, trapping moisture against surfaces and in the worst cases contributing to damp and mould inside. It's difficult to remove due to its deep roots and the fact it can regenerate from small fragments which are accidentally left behind. Emily added: "Virginia Creeper can be controlled but it does require a vigilance and effort. It should be cut back regularly throughout the growing season to contain it, paying particular attention to new shoots spreading in new directions – especially if it's growing directly up a building rather than a fence or trellis.' 5. Ivy Ivy is much loved by gardeners across the UK and it isn't usually a problem, as long as it's kept in check. If it's allowed to run riot its powerful adventitious (aerial) roots can damage brickwork, lift roof tiles, pull gutters away from walls and block light from windows. When it rains, moisture can seep into the brickwork and the ivy will prevent it from drying easily, potentially leading to damp and mould. "Ivy only causes problems if it's not restrained with regular pruning," said Emily. "Once it's very established, its roots can become deeply embedded in the wall or roof it's growing up and it can be difficult to remove it without causing damage. It's best to tackle the plant in autumn or winter when it isn't actively growing.'
Tom's Guide
21-05-2025
- General
- Tom's Guide
Gardeners urged not to use this invasive plant that could seriously damage homes and yards
Summer is almost here, and the ideal time for our plants and flowers to bloom and flourish. But, if you have this one particular plant, you could be at risk of ruining your yard, home, and neighboring properties too. In fact, this plant has been dubbed by experts as the 'new Japanese knotweed', due to its invasive nature if not properly contained. What's more, it could cost you a fortune in expensive property damage repairs. So what is this common plant that could wreak havoc in your backyard? Bamboo makes a stunning feature to your backyard style, however, it's also one of the fastest growing plants in the world. Certain species, like the running bamboo plant are known to grow like a weed, quickly becoming invasive. Experts are urging gardeners not to plant such invasive plants due to its unruly nature. Not only can this cause serious damage to your yard and home, but the roots can also affect your neighbors properties too. "In our latest research, 71% of people weren't aware that bamboo could cause any damage and 84% were not aware that it could prompt legal claims between neighbours or hinder property sales.' states Emily Grant, director of operations of Environet to the Guardian. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. To avoid this, gardening experts suggest growing running bamboo in pots or containers instead, for better control. 'If you're growing running varieties it's a good idea to keep them in pots and planters in order to control the growth and spread. It's as simple as that!', advises Chris Bonnett from 'You should also watch out for pests like aphids and spider mites, and use natural remedies or appropriate pesticides to manage infestations.' If you do love bamboo and want it in your yard, it's important to choose the right species that will grow safely. Clumping bamboo is a non-invasive type that can be easily maintained and shaped to suit your yard style. Although known to be hardy, bamboo plants are best placed in sunny spots, and ideal for borders, flower beds and in pots. You can choose from a variety of heights from your local gardening centre, with full-grown plants going up to 30 feet tall. For best results, it's recommended to plant bamboo in spring or early summer, and types for backyard privacy include Gracilis, also known as Slender Weaver Bamboo — which doesn't grow out of control. In fact, clumping bamboo is a great plant to create more privacy in your backyard — especially if you want to relax outdoors without prying eyes!
Scottish Sun
20-05-2025
- General
- Scottish Sun
We were slapped with £60k repair bill after neighbours' WEEDS invaded our home – all the signs you could be next
A COUPLE were hit with a £60,000 repair bill after their neighbours' weeds spread into their home – here are the warning signs to watch out for. A husband and wife, who asked to remain anonymous, were shocked to find leaves sprouting through the floor of their conservatory in their Brighton home. 8 A couple have been forced to demolish their conservatory after bamboo began to emerge from the walls and floor Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 8 The pair have now been hot with a whopping £60,00 repair bill Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 8 The cost to demolish the conservatory was covered by their neighbour's building insurer under a liability damage claim Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk After digging up the path between the houses, the couple discovered the bamboo belonged to their neighbour. Despite not being classed as an invasive species in the UK, the plant is renowned for spreading fast. Bamboo is remarkably strong — its tensile strength can reach up to an astonishing 28,000 pounds per square inch, making it stronger than steel in some cases. The couple now face demolishing their conservatory, with the cost set to be covered by their neighbour's building insurer under a liability damage claim. The husband said: "We hoped that if we dug up the rhizome underneath the path between our properties, that would solve the problem, but it quickly became apparent that it was much more serious. "We've had to have the conservatory demolished, it will cost us around £60k to replace it." A survey of more than 2,000 people revealed that around 54 per cent of homeowners are unaware of the risks bamboo poses to properties. Emily Grant, director of Environet, an invasive plant removal firm, stated that it is the responsibility of the plant owner to prevent it from spreading into neighbouring homes. She also added that anyone considering buying a property with bamboo present should commission a bamboo survey to assess the potential risks and ensure they don't face legal claims 'as soon as you move in'. As the sunny weather encouraged us to be outside, many homeowners have turned their attention to their gardens. Map reveals worst areas for Japanese knotweed with fears plant will wipe thousands off house prices But while a vibrant outdoor space can be a source of pride, some of the most common garden plants could be quietly putting your home at risk from damage. Left unchecked, these popular plants could lead to costly repairs, rising premiums, and even civil action. Here, home insurance experts at Norton Insurance Brokers have identified the top five plants which could be putting you at risk… 1. Wisteria Known for its elegant, cascading blooms, wisteria can be surprisingly aggressive behind the scenes. It grows quickly and develops thick, woody stems that twist around anything in their path. 2. Bamboo There was a bamboo crisis invading people's homes last year, with numerous reports of the plant overtaking gardens, and in some cases, breaking into properties. The problem appears to be getting worse, with a 69 per cent increase in UK searches for 'how to get rid of bamboo' suggesting that more homeowners are now struggling to contain it. 3. English Ivy English ivy is a classic sight on British homes and garden walls, loved for its evergreen charm and cottage core appeal. But don't let appearances fool you, ivy is notorious for causing damage to the very structures it clings to. 4. Tall trees Trees can add beauty, shade, and value to a property, but if they're too close to your home, they could be doing more harm than good. Many insurers are wary of trees over five metres tall growing within seven metres of a property, and with good reason. 5. Jasmine Another garden favourite, jasmine, is loved for its delicate white flowers and unmistakable fragrance. However, while its scent may be unbeatable, jasmine can quietly cause damage if left unchecked, particularly when grown close to the home. In summer, jasmine can form a thick green mat that masks underlying vulnerabilities. Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences: One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants: 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter 8 A survey of more than 2,000 people revealed that around 54 per cent of homeowners are unaware of the risks bamboo poses to properties Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 8 Emily Grant, director of Environet, revealed that it is the responsibility of the plant owner to prevent it from spreading into neighbouring homes Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 8 Despite not being classed as an invasive species in the UK, Bamboo is renowned for spreading fast Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 8 The plant is said to be stronger than steel in some cases Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk
The Irish Sun
20-05-2025
- General
- The Irish Sun
We were slapped with £60k repair bill after neighbours' WEEDS invaded our home – all the signs you could be next
A COUPLE were hit with a £60,000 repair bill after their neighbours' weeds spread into their home – here are the warning signs to watch out for. A husband and wife, who asked to remain anonymous, were shocked to find leaves sprouting through the floor of their conservatory in their Brighton home. 8 A couple have been forced to demolish their conservatory after bamboo began to emerge from the walls and floor Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 8 The pair have now been hot with a whopping £60,00 repair bill Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 8 The cost to demolish the conservatory was covered by their neighbour's building insurer under a liability damage claim Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk After digging up the path between the houses, the couple discovered the Despite not being classed as an invasive species in the UK, the plant is renowned for spreading fast. Bamboo is remarkably strong — its tensile strength can reach up to an astonishing 28,000 pounds per square inch, making it stronger than steel in some cases. The couple now face demolishing their conservatory, with the cost set to be covered by their neighbour's building insurer under a liability damage claim. read more ion UK news The husband said: "We hoped that if we dug up the "We've had to have the conservatory demolished, it will cost us around £60k to replace it." A survey of more than 2,000 people revealed that around 54 per cent of homeowners are unaware of the risks bamboo poses to properties. Emily Grant, director of Environet, an invasive plant removal firm, stated that it is the responsibility of the plant owner to prevent it from spreading into neighbouring homes. Most read in The Sun She also added that anyone considering buying a property with bamboo present should commission a bamboo survey to assess the potential risks and ensure they don't face legal claims 'as soon as you move in'. As the sunny weather encouraged us to be outside, many homeowners have turned their attention to their Map reveals worst areas for Japanese knotweed with fears plant will wipe thousands off house prices But while a vibrant outdoor space can be a source of pride, some of the most common garden plants could be quietly putting your home at risk from damage. Left unchecked, these popular plants could lead to costly repairs, rising premiums, and even civil action. Here, home insurance experts at have identified the top five plants which could be putting you at risk… 1. Wisteria Known for its elegant, cascading blooms, can be surprisingly aggressive behind the scenes. It grows quickly and develops thick, woody stems that twist around anything in their path. 2. Bamboo There was a bamboo crisis invading people's homes last year, with numerous reports of the plant overtaking gardens, and in some cases, breaking into properties. The problem appears to be getting worse, with a 69 per cent increase in UK searches for 'how to get rid of bamboo' suggesting that more homeowners are now struggling to contain it. 3. English Ivy English ivy is a classic sight on British homes and garden walls, loved for its evergreen charm and cottage core appeal. But don't let appearances fool you, ivy is notorious for causing damage to the very structures it clings to. 4. Tall trees Trees can add beauty, shade, and value to a property, but if they're too close to your home, they could be doing more harm than good. Many insurers are wary of trees over five metres tall growing within seven metres of a property, and with good reason. 5. Jasmine Another garden favourite, jasmine, is loved for its delicate white flowers and unmistakable fragrance. However, while its scent may be unbeatable, jasmine can quietly cause damage if left unchecked, particularly when grown close to the home. In summer, jasmine can form a thick green mat that masks underlying vulnerabilities. Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning : If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences : One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions : A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants : 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter 8 A survey of more than 2,000 people revealed that around 54 per cent of homeowners are unaware of the risks bamboo poses to properties Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 8 Emily Grant, director of Environet, revealed that it is the responsibility of the plant owner to prevent it from spreading into neighbouring homes Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 8 Despite not being classed as an invasive species in the UK, Bamboo is renowned for spreading fast Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 8 The plant is said to be stronger than steel in some cases Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 8 After digging up the path between the houses, the couple discovered the bamboo belonged to their neighbour Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk
The Sun
20-05-2025
- General
- The Sun
We were slapped with £60k repair bill after neighbours' WEEDS invaded our home – all the signs you could be next
A COUPLE were hit with a £60,000 repair bill after their neighbours' weeds spread into their home – here are the warning signs to watch out for. A husband and wife, who asked to remain anonymous, were shocked to find leaves sprouting through the floor of their conservatory in their Brighton home. 8 8 8 After digging up the path between the houses, the couple discovered the bamboo belonged to their neighbour. Despite not being classed as an invasive species in the UK, the plant is renowned for spreading fast. Bamboo is remarkably strong — its tensile strength can reach up to an astonishing 28,000 pounds per square inch, making it stronger than steel in some cases. The couple now face demolishing their conservatory, with the cost set to be covered by their neighbour's building insurer under a liability damage claim. The husband said: "We hoped that if we dug up the rhizome underneath the path between our properties, that would solve the problem, but it quickly became apparent that it was much more serious. "We've had to have the conservatory demolished, it will cost us around £60k to replace it." A survey of more than 2,000 people revealed that around 54 per cent of homeowners are unaware of the risks bamboo poses to properties. Emily Grant, director of Environet, an invasive plant removal firm, stated that it is the responsibility of the plant owner to prevent it from spreading into neighbouring homes. She also added that anyone considering buying a property with bamboo present should commission a bamboo survey to assess the potential risks and ensure they don't face legal claims 'as soon as you move in'. As the sunny weather encouraged us to be outside, many homeowners have turned their attention to their gardens. Map reveals worst areas for Japanese knotweed with fears plant will wipe thousands off house prices But while a vibrant outdoor space can be a source of pride, some of the most common garden plants could be quietly putting your home at risk from damage. Left unchecked, these popular plants could lead to costly repairs, rising premiums, and even civil action. Here, home insurance experts at Norton Insurance Brokers have identified the top five plants which could be putting you at risk… 1. Wisteria Known for its elegant, cascading blooms, wisteria can be surprisingly aggressive behind the scenes. It grows quickly and develops thick, woody stems that twist around anything in their path. 2. Bamboo There was a bamboo crisis invading people's homes last year, with numerous reports of the plant overtaking gardens, and in some cases, breaking into properties. The problem appears to be getting worse, with a 69 per cent increase in UK searches for 'how to get rid of bamboo' suggesting that more homeowners are now struggling to contain it. 3. English Ivy English ivy is a classic sight on British homes and garden walls, loved for its evergreen charm and cottage core appeal. But don't let appearances fool you, ivy is notorious for causing damage to the very structures it clings to. 4. Tall trees Trees can add beauty, shade, and value to a property, but if they're too close to your home, they could be doing more harm than good. Many insurers are wary of trees over five metres tall growing within seven metres of a property, and with good reason. 5. Jasmine Another garden favourite, jasmine, is loved for its delicate white flowers and unmistakable fragrance. However, while its scent may be unbeatable, jasmine can quietly cause damage if left unchecked, particularly when grown close to the home. In summer, jasmine can form a thick green mat that masks underlying vulnerabilities. Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences: One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants: 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter 8 8 8 8 8
