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Most property owners think they can remove or trim any branches or roots that cross the boundary of their property. You can handle it if it’s on your property, right?
Not exactly.
Not all overhanging branches can be cut back with a saw. In court decisions, homeowners have been found to be subject to severe financial penalties for performing the work incorrectly and causing harm on a neighboring tree. These are some real-life scenarios that illustrate the dangers.
The Story of Patel & Booska
Patel, an owner of property, hired a tree expert in 1994 to remove the roots from a Monterey Pine belonging to his neighbor Booska. Patel claimed the roots were damaging his concrete.
The contractor dug trenches three feet deep along the property line, effectively removing the roots that kept the tree alive. Booska paid for the removal of the tree.
Booska took the case to court, and won. Patel was required to pay an amount that was significant in restitution.
What is the lesson here? What is the lesson?
Rony and Costa – Another Costly Case
Fast forward to 2012. In this case, the owner of a property hired a day worker who did not have a license to trim branches that crossed his property boundaries. Instead of carefully managing the situation, the laborer aggressively chopped down the trees. The result was disastrous.
What was the outcome? What was the result?
It is important to remember that a careless, “do-it-yourself” trimming could lead to an expensive legal battle.
What can we learn from this?
You have the right to protect your house, but you also have responsibilities.
- Trim any roots or branches that cross your property boundary. Trim only the branches and roots that cross your property line.
- You cannot destroy or damage a neighbor’s trees. If you cause a tree to die, or be seriously damaged by your trimming, then you may be legally liable.
- A wrong hire can cost you thousands. Hire a certified professional who understands how to trim property lines within legal boundaries and the health of your trees.
Why Hire a Certified Arborist
If you’re unsure what to trim, hiring a certified arborist is the best choice. Professionals are trained to:
- Trim the tree without damaging its health.
- Protect yourself by following industry standards and local laws.
- Expert advice on how to best resolve disputes between neighbours about trees.
Arborwise Tree Service
Arborwise Tree Service can help property owners to navigate these difficult situations. When you call us for an estimate, we’ll explain your rights and responsibilities.
The following services are available:
- Tree trimming and pruning
- Tree Removal
- Stump grinding
- Fertilization
- Tree Restoration
Our team is made up of certified professionals with experience in dealing with tree issues legally, safely and effectively.
Find out why Arborwise Tree Service is rated 5-stars on Google and why so many homeowners trust us to take care of their trees.
Final Word
It’s not possible to simply cut the branch hanging above your property. Responsibility comes with property rights. Protect yourself by making informed decisions. Consult experts when in doubt who understand the rules and trees.
This post was written by a professional arborist at Tree Trimming Largo FL. Robert Miller is the owner of Arbor Wise Professional Tree Care, a locally owned and operated tree service company that offers superb lawn care by the most experienced Arborists. Arborwise Tree Services is a tree removal company that offers stump removal, tree pruning, stump grinding, fertilization, and tree restoration. We have an extraordinary lawn care industry notoriety covering the Pinellas county area.
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