Complete Tree Guide

The Homeowner's Complete Tree Guide — England & Wales

Written by a qualified arborist with years of experience in tree disputes, safety, and the law

Do you know what you can actually do about your neighbour's overhanging tree? Whether your tree is protected? Who's responsible when roots cause damage? What happens if you just cut it down?

Most homeowners don't — and that's exactly how they end up with a £20,000 fine, a lost dispute, or a bill they shouldn't have paid.

This guide gives you straight answers from a qualified arborist. No legal waffle. No vague "it depends." Just clear, practical information so you know exactly where you stand.

What's inside:

• Tree ownership and boundary rules explained simply
• Tree Preservation Orders — how to check, what they mean, and the real penalties
• Conservation Areas and the 6-week rule
• Your rights with overhanging branches and encroaching roots
• Root damage — how to prove it and who pays
• Council and highway trees — who's responsible and how to claim
• Hedge law including high hedges and nesting season
• Dangerous trees and your duty of care
• Step-by-step dispute escalation from letter to court
• Checklists and template letter guidance
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England & Wales only. Correct as of 2025. General information — not legal advice.