Trees Near Properties

Trees have negative effects on buildings in predominantly 2 ways-

Indirect damage by affecting the soil around and under a building;‍

• Tree roots can cause the soil to shrink as they absorb moisture, potentially leading to subsidence and affecting the stability of a building's foundation.

Direct damage caused by the tree;

• When trees are in close their roots can penetrate the foundations, damage external slabs and damage drainage.

Tree Preservation Order (TPO)

‍‍A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal protection in the UK that safeguards specific trees or woodlands from being cut down, pruned, or damaged without permission from the local planning authority. TPOs are used to conserve trees with cultural, environmental, or historical significance.

Violating a TPO can result in penalties, and exemptions for routine maintenance may apply. Property owners can appeal TPOs or seek compensation in certain cases. Publicly accessible, TPOs notify property owners and the public about protected trees in an area.

Tree Root Protection Area (TPRA)

A Tree Root Protection Area (TRPA) is a designated zone around a tree within which special care and consideration are given to protect the tree's root system. The primary purpose of a TRPA is to ensure the tree's long-term health and stability by preserving its roots and the surrounding soil from potential damage during construction, mainly in terms of excavations.

The Root Protection Area (RPA) is defined in BS 5837