How to remove Japanese knotweed before you get an ASBO
Experts at Japanese Knotweed Ltd warn that allowing invasive weeds such as Japanese knotweed to grow, could even pose a risk of an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) or substantial fines.
Can you get fined for Japanese knotweed?
Ignoring even the slightest spread of this highly destructive weed, or failing to manage contaminated soil, could cost homeowners up to £5,000 in fines.
Under reformed government legislation, a Community Protection Notice (CPN) – commonly known as an ASBO – can now be issued to individuals or organisations who fail to control Japanese knotweed, deeming such inaction as "unreasonable conduct" that negatively impacts the quality of life in a neighbourhood.
Jennifer Holmes at Japanese Knotweed Ltd, said: 'One of the most asked questions we hear is; 'What damage can knotweed cause?' and knotweed takes advantage of any weaknesses in buildings, structures and underground infrastructure.
'If there's a tiny fracture or crack it'll grow through it - expanding that crack to cause potentially serious damage.
'We've seen concrete broken up, pipes smashed to pieces and even knotweed growing through cracks in walls to invade a kitchen - yes it grew through a crack in the wall and appeared inside a kitchen cupboard.
'It's super important to catch knotweed before it gets to this stage, often it's undetectable to an untrained eye - that's why calling in a specialist surveyor is your best defence.'
What is a ASBO (CPN)?
Failure to control Japanese knotweed can lead to a Community Protection Notice (CPN).
A CPN could be used after a mandatory written warning has been served beforehand to inform people to take action.
Breach of any requirement of a CPN, without reasonable excuse, would be a criminal offence, subject to a fixed penalty notice.
On summary conviction, an individual would be liable to a fine of up to £2,500.
Japanese Knotweed Ltd advises that you 'act fast' if you suspect you have knotweed in your garden – or if its even its coming through from an adjoining neighbour's garden.
How to remove Japanese knotweed?
Control methods, such as herbicide management plans or excavation, should be implemented promptly to prevent further spread and avoid legal issues.
Japanese Knotweed Ltd specialises in the identification, treatment, and offers professional legal guidance concerning Japanese knotweed.
UK landowners can also apply for Land Remediation Relief on works carried out - which is a valuable tax relief giving back thousands.
Recommended reading:
What is Japanese knotweed
The invasive plant is relentlessly durable, fast-growing and can cause damage to nearby structures.
Japanese knotweed is most visible during the summer months, particularly in late summer and early autumn when it flowers.
However, it's also identifiable in other seasons, with distinct characteristics in spring and winter.
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