Island Life Magazine Ltd April/May 2015 | Page 113

ISLAND LIFE MAGAZINE

Terence
Willey & Co
Terence Willey: 01983 875859
Mark Willey: 01983 611888
www.terencewilley.co.uk

Beware dangers of
Japanese Knotweed
W
e should be very concerned
about Japanese Knotweed
which is now indisputably
one of this country’s most aggressive,
destructive and invasive plants.
It was first introduced from Japan
in 1825 as an ornamental plant and
ironically it is not unattractive. However
its growth and spread can be spectacular.
Under the provisions made within the
Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 it is
an offence to cause Japanese Knotweed
to grow in the wild. This legislation
has been extended and incorporated
as an amendment to the Anti-social
Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014
and full details as to how this may affect
homeowners are being considered.
The Environmental Agency has
recorded this now as a matter of fact, and
it is believed that Japanese Knotweed
can grow up to three to four metres in 10
weeks. The root system of this plant can

seriously undermine buildings; create
serious damage to concrete foundations,
walls, paths and retaining walls.
It has a look not dissimilar to other
garden weeds, but if unsure and before
taking action to uproot it, it is advisable to
consult experts. Many firms have now set
up in specialising in this area and offering
advice and assisting with its removal.
A property may be considered totally
un-mortgageable if it is not properly
dealt with. I am sure this potential burden
on properties is now considered a high
propriety for surveyors upon discovering
the same on survey.
In pre-contract enquiries raised during
the conveyancing process, there are often
general responses from sellers confirming
they are not aware of any problems in this
area in the past, but this is not conclusive
nor can be relied upon for assurances
for the future. If in doubt you should
ensure that your own surveyor or an

expert investigates further for you before
proceeding with your purchase.
Whether buying or selling property,
where it is discovered, it is very advisable
to have dialogue with neighbouring
properties, as the spread may prove
extensive.
If there has been evidence in the past
with regard to your own property, and you
are in the process of selling, it is important
to make a statement that no warranties
can be given to your buyer and he or she
should rely entirely on their own survey.
Often people do not readily recognise
the existence of Japanese Knotweed
and the advice must be that if you are
in any doubt whatsoever, take advice
before proceeding with the sale of your
property. Otherwise an action may be
open to a buyer for non disclosure,
notwithstanding the buyer’s own duty of
care in ensuring the fullest enquiries and
surveys are undertaken prior to purchase.
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