Your Guide: Surveyors and Plants
From our Senior Officer & Business Leader, People and Operations- Alison Crawford
Gardens are a haven for nature enthusiasts, but it’s important to note that not all plants are universally cherished. There are currently 36 species of plant listed as being of special concern within the UK, commonly referred to as injurious weeds or invasive plants.
Surveyors, who play a vital role in assessing and evaluating property, also need a keen eye for identifying and analysing the impact of different plants in gardens and their potential risks, maintenance challenges, and the impact on property value.
In this article, we will explore some common reasons behind why surveyors may not always think ‘the grass is greener’.
Invasive Species:
One of the primary concerns for surveyors is the inclusion of invasive plant species in gardens. These plants have the potential to spread rapidly and aggressively, often outcompeting native plants and causing ecological imbalance. They can invade nearby properties and natural habitats, adversely affecting the surrounding environment.
Structural Damage:
Some plants can cause structural damage to buildings, services, and infrastructure.
Trees with invasive root systems, such as willows and poplars, can cause significant problems by destabilising foundations or damaging underground utilities and service installations.
In extreme circumstances, hard landscaping such as paths and driveways can also be damaged, and surveyors prioritise the identification and management of such plants to minimise these risks.
High Maintenance:
Some plants require regular and intensive maintenance, which can be a deterrent for homeowners and property owners alike.
Species that tend to grow fast, shed excessive leaves or flowers, or have thorny or prickly characteristics can be perceived as burdensome.
Surveyors often flag these plants as they may increase the amount of effort and expense required to keep a garden presentable and manageable.
Allergies and Health Risks:
Plants which produce high levels of pollen or potent allergens pose risks to people with allergies or respiratory conditions.
Pollen from trees such as cedar, oak, or pine can cause allergy symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, and breathing difficulties. Additionally, certain plants, like poison ivy or stinging nettles, can cause uncomfortable skin reactions upon contact.
Surveyors consider the health risks associated by particular plants, especially if they are found in close proximity to living spaces.
Property Value:
The overall aesthetics and appeal of a garden play a significant role in property valuation. Surveyors assess the impact of plants on the visual aspects of a property and consider whether they enhance or detract from its market value.
Overgrown or neglected gardens, or those dominated by undesirable plants, can potentially decrease property value. As a result, surveyors may recommend the removal or replacement of certain plants to improve the overall appeal of the garden.
Plant Species:
There are a number of plant species that commonly cause problems in gardens and are often flagged by surveyors, if they are identifiable, sometimes hampered by the changing seasons. While the prevalence of these species may vary depending on the region and ecosystem, some of the plants that consistently cause issues include:
Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia Japonica): Notorious for its aggressive growth and ability to spread rapidly, Japanese knotweed can cause structural damage to buildings and infrastructure, leading to significant costs for remediation and control.
Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens Glandulifera): Known for its rapid growth and ability to outcompete native plants, Himalayan Balsam can quickly dominate large areas, reducing biodiversity and posing a risk of soil erosion.
Giant Hogweed (Heracleum Mantegazzianum): This invasive plant can grow up to 5 metres tall, and its sap contains toxic chemicals that can cause severe burns and blistering on human skin, making it a safety concern.
Willow (Salix) and Poplar (Populus) trees: While trees in general are beneficial for the environment, willows and poplars have invasive root systems that can cause damage to underground utilities, foundations, and paved surfaces.
Ivy (Hedera): Although ivy is often valued for its aesthetic appeal, its aggressive growth can damage walls, fences, and structures, and may also provide a habitat for pests such as mice or insects.
Bamboo (Poaceae): Some bamboo species have a reputation for spreading aggressively, forming dense thickets that can be difficult to control. This can result in encroachment on neighbouring properties and infrastructure.
Rhododendron Ponticum: First introduced to the UK in 1763 there are now few areas where this invasive species cannot be found. Each single plant can produce in excess of one million seeds a year which can spread easily in the wind, making it incredibly difficult to eradicate by digging or the use of pesticides. Once established the bushes block out sunlight and smother other plants and trees, with the leaves also being toxic to some animals as well as carrying diseases that can be fatal to native trees.
It’s important to note that the impact and management of these plants can vary depending on the specific circumstances. For example, it is not illegal to have Japanese Knotweed growing on your property, but it is illegal to allow it to spread. Other species, such as Himalayan Baslam are illegal to plant or to allow to grow within the UK. If found guilty of a criminal offence in relation to invasive species penalties of up to a fine of £5,000 and/or 2 years imprisonment.
By consulting with local experts, such as surveyors or horticulturists, accurate identification, and tailored advice regarding the specific species of concern in a particular area. By prioritising the well-being and sustainability of the surrounding environment and considering the long-term implications for property owners, surveyors strive to strike a balance between aesthetic appeal and practical considerations. Through their expertise, they offer valuable guidance to ensure gardens are designed and maintained in a way that benefits both the property and its owners.
