Are you Buying/Selling your home and have come across the questions relating to Japanese Knotweed? Are you aware of what damage this type of invasive species can cause to a property and why this poses a risk to Lenders?

Here we briefly cover some of the important points and what a Lender will need to know.

What is an invasive species?

Plant species such as Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam are known to be Invasive Species. These plants can cause incredible damage to properties, both above and below ground.

How do I know whether I have an invasive species at my property?

These plants can be really difficult to identify to the untrained eye. Japanese Knotweed can be recognised by its reddish bamboo-like stems with small white, fluffy flowers and typically grows to approximately 2 meters high. Whilst Himalayan Balsam shared a similar reddish bamboo-like stem, you’ll find that larger pink flowers bloom and can grow up to 3 meters.

During the winter, these plants become even more difficult to spot. The leaves and flowers are lost and whilst the shoots will remain, these may turn brown and brittle.

What damage can these plants cause?

Japanese Knotweed can find its way into all sorts of weak areas in walls, foundations or even pavements and can crack brickwork. It may also find its way into drains, causing blockages.

Himalayan Balsam thrives in damp, slightly shadier areas such as riverbanks. Its smaller roots die back in the winter months and therefore can cause the ground to be vulnerable to erosion.

What effect will this have on my property?

When buying a property, it is recommended that you instruct a Surveyor who can recognise invasive species, regardless of whether the Seller has confirmed no, or not known within the Property Information Form. As advised above it is difficult to identify and some people may not be aware. Lenders, in most circumstances, will need to be informed if there is a known invasive species at the property and may require sight of a treatment plan before agreeing to releasing any mortgage funds. This will depend on the specific requirements of your Lender, which we can advise you on, should the situation arise.

If you suspect your property could be home to one of these invasive species, further information can be found on the Government Website about How to stop Japanese knotweed from spreading - GOV.UK. We would advise you to appoint an approved specialist who will be able to assist you with a treatment plan.

How can we help?

Whether you are looking to buy or sell contact our residential property experts to guide you through the process.