19th September 2018

We know what you are all thinking, ‘Japanese Knotweed’ what is it and how do I identify it? Japanese Knotweed is a tall plant which has accelerated growth speed. It can grow approximately 3 metres in height throughout early Spring until Autumn and will eventually begin to die in the Winter and will then regrow accordingly. Despite this, if the plant is not removed it can continue to grow for years and cause structural damage to your property by growing in between materials including tarmac, brick and even concrete.

According to the Royal Horticultural society (RHS), the plant can be identified by a number of factors:

1. Reddish- purple shoots which emerge from pink buds;
2. Green heart-shaped leaves;
3. Creamy-white flowers which are produced around Summer/early Autumn;
4. Bamboo-like stems;

There are ways to remove the plant and avoid it spreading on to other properties. There are certain methods you can undertake to help remove the plant yourself such as digging the plant out or using specific chemical sprays. However, we would recommend that you contact a professional specialist on Japanese Knotweed to help eradicate the problem.

If you are a purchaser and looking to buy a property which has been identified to have Japanese Knotweed at or around the property, this may affect the marketability and valuation of the property. If you are taking out a mortgage, this may also affect the lenders valuation and impact on the assessment to lend you money. However, there are ways to overcome this and some lenders will just need to see that there is an achievable management plan to help reduce and remove the plant.

In view of the above, it is very important when selling or buying a property to ensure you keep a look out for the signs of Japanese Knotweed. If you are unsure, you can instruct a specialist to help identify the existence of the plant. In any event, if the plant is identified we would recommend that you act fast and start treatment as soon as possible. If you are buying, it is important that you discuss this with your instructed solicitor so that they can raise the necessary enquiries with the sellers’ solicitor.

To speak with one of our friendly property specialists please call 020 3475 4321