Knot again! Another knotweed liability case

We are all aware of the potential liabilities that the dreaded Japanese knotweed may bring. This can range from civil liability to a neighbour, or even criminal liability if reasonable measures are not taken to control the invasive plant.

Recently, on behalf of several neighbouring owners, Bristol City Council prosecuted a residential property company under the Antisocial Behaviour Crime And Policing Act 2004, to force the company to address the detrimental effect of the knotweed.

The company was fined £18,000 by the court, plus costs, and was given 28 days in which to address the issue, as well as provide an action plan from a specialist company to tackle the problem.

Yet again, the Bristol City Council case demonstrates how it is vital for landowners to take a proactive approach to noticing and addressing knotweed, including having a strategy in place to halt its growth.

Generally, the best way to do this is to obtain specialist treatment from a professional, who will be able to give you an insurance-backed guarantee.

As always, if you need commercial and pragmatic legal advice, we’re here to help so please get in touch.

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