My neighbour chopped all our trees down without our permission – our garden's now a mess & I'm fuming

The Sun

4 days ago

A WOMAN has been left fuming after claiming her 'psycho' neighbour chopped down her garden's trees without permission.
In a video, she shared the before and after of her outdoor space, with her garden looking like a mess after the massacre.
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On her account, she shared the entire story - and people are split in the comments.
She claimed: 'About two months ago, our neighbor asked us to remove our trees because flowers were falling into his yard.
'Of course I felt terrible but we said no, because I loved those trees for many reasons. 'However, we immediately had them professionally cut back (which we do every other year, per our landscaper's recommendation). He lost it.
'He sent a bunch of unhinged messages to my husband but we thought it had blown over after we had the trees cut back and the flowers stopped blooming.
'Fast forward to this past weekend, while we weren't home (which he knew), they were mysteriously chopped down. Every last one.
'They were cut aggressively and conveniently in a way that ensured nothing fell into his yard.'
She shared how she had asked neighbours if they had seen what happened - and word got back to the person they suspect did it.
The woman claims he then started sending her husband 'threatening messages' filled with 'profanity and intimidation.'
The social media user said she wasn't sharing the story for sympathy but because she felt 'heartbroken'.
She said she has filed a police report and is trying to get justice over the incident.
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People were quick to tune in on the tree debacle, with one saying: 'Huge trees are a pain in a garden but you cannot just go in neighbors garden and cut them down!'
Another also supported her saying: 'What type of psycho goes to another person's yard and cuts down their trees!!!!
'It's truly insane. I'm sorry this was done to you.'
However, some people took the neighbour's side.
One wrote: 'Why do people plant their trees so close to the border?'
Another added: 'understand your feelings but anything hanging over his yard I presume he can legally cut back?'
What are your rights if a neighbour's tree hangs into your garden?
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In order to prevent overhanging branches turning into furious rows between neighbours, Natalie Welsh, head of property at HCB Widdows Mason shared what your rights are in this tricky situation.
"It can be really frustrating when branches or plants from your neighbour's garden start to spill over into your space", she said.
"In England and Wales, you're allowed to cut back any branches that cross onto your property, but only up to the boundary line.
"Just make sure you don't step onto your neighbour's land or damage the tree itself."
When trimming a tree back, you are not allowed to lean into your neighbour's garden, since that can be considered trespassing.
Natalie advised that before taking any drastic action, it's best to have a friendly chat with your neighbour first.
Rules on fences and trees
Fences:
Height Restrictions: In most areas, fences in front gardens should not exceed one metre in height without planning permission. For rear gardens, the limit is generally two metres.
Shared Fences: If a fence is shared with a neighbour, both parties are typically responsible for its maintenance and any costs associated with repairs or replacement.
Building Regulations: Ensure that any new fence complies with local building regulations and does not obstruct visibility for drivers or pedestrians.
Trees:
Ownership: Trees located on your property are your responsibility, including any damage they may cause. Conversely, trees on a neighbour's property are their responsibility.
Overhanging Branches: You are entitled to trim branches that overhang into your property, but only up to the boundary line. The cut branches should be offered back to the tree owner.
Protected Trees: Some trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Check with your local council before undertaking any work on a tree, as unauthorised work can result in fines.
Roots: If tree roots from a neighbour's tree cause damage to your property, you have the right to remove the roots. However, it is advisable to discuss this with your neighbour first to avoid disputes.
Always consult your local council or a legal adviser for specific regulations and advice.