Tree touching my roof

Tree touching my roof

Saint Louis, MO · Member since 2017 · 27 posts · 3 votes

Hello BP Folks,

I just found out that the big tree branches have started touching the roof of my apt building complex. The tree lies in the property of another building. Who is suppose to cut the branches? Me or the neighbour where the tree belongs to? Since the tree is in his property, isn't he responsible for trimming it and making sure that it does not harm other property? 

The neighbour called me and told me that i have permission to cut down the tree but I do not want to pay the $$ for it. Usually cutting trees are expensive and should not it be his responsibilities to do it?

Thanks,

Prakash

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Louisville, KY · Member since 2015 · 26 posts · 75 votes
8y

I run a tree service. You are responsible for trimming limbs back from your property. The only time it is  the tree-owner's responsibility is if it is dead tree and limbs are breaking/falling creating a hazard.

Same if a tree falls. When it falls, which ever property it lands on is the new owner of that tree or limb. Regardless of where it originated from.

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  • Deland, FL · Member since 2017 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    8y

    Where I am it is you

    Your laws may be different

    So from now on when a tree branch first starts to come across your property I would notify the owner you are going to trim it off and do it 

  • Rental Property Investor · Northern, CA · Member since 2012 · 5k+ posts · 5k+ votes
    8y

    Doesn’t sound like you need to “cut down the tree”. Just trim the branch that is hanging over the property line and touching your roof. You don’t need his permission to do that. 

  • Nathan GesnerBusiness Member
    Moderator
    Real Estate Broker · Cody, WY · Member since 2010 · 28k+ posts · 41k+ votes
    8y

    In my city, we are allowed to trim any branches intruding on our space. It it's actually touching your building and could potentially cause damage, the other owner should pay for it but I don't know if you can actually force them to do it.

    Call your City and ask for guidance.

    The DIY Landlord Book4.7243 Reviews
  • Louisville, KY · Member since 2015 · 26 posts · 75 votes
    8y

    I run a tree service. You are responsible for trimming limbs back from your property. The only time it is  the tree-owner's responsibility is if it is dead tree and limbs are breaking/falling creating a hazard.

    Same if a tree falls. When it falls, which ever property it lands on is the new owner of that tree or limb. Regardless of where it originated from.

  • Dick RosenPro Member
    Property Manager · Gilbert, AZ · Member since 2009 · 1k+ posts · 451 votes
    8y

    I would have the branches affecting your property trimmed off for sure if the owner of the tree isn't cooperating.

  • Rental Property Investor · Durham, NC · Member since 2014 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    8y

    Another thing to consider is some (most?) insurance companies will not start an insurance policy if tree branches are contacting the roof of your property.  You should have the branches cut (at the property line) ASAP.  Don't wait and bicker with the other property owner. 

  • Rental Property Investor · Haverhill, MA · Member since 2016 · 25 posts · 7 votes
    8y

    Trim the branches back yourself. It's short money to do that versus having to submit a claim on your insurance for property damage that could have been avoided. Good luck!

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