Trees can add aesthetic value to a property but also pose threats over time if they die, break, or damage structures. When removing a tree, homeowners must consider tree and property safety, appearance concerns, potential property damage from roots or falling branches, and legal responsibilities. Tree disputes with neighbors may arise over branches or roots and require following legal avenues of resolution. Proper permits may also be required before removing trees protected under local vegetation laws.

1. Homeowner’s Guide to
Tree Removal
In terms of aesthetics, trees can be an excellent addition to your yard or garden. They can,
however, constitute a threat over time, especially if they die or break after a severe storm.
When it comes to having a tree removed, there are some guidelines that must be observed.

2. Tree Safety
A tree grows larger and larger with time, its roots and branches spreading far and wide. The risk of
overhanging branches breaking and falling increases as the tree grows older. If someone was nearby, this
may result in harm. If the tree is close to your home, it may fall on your home in the event of a big storm.
Consult a local arborist like Pro Tree Removal Brisbane about the tree's potential hazards. They are highly
skilled when it comes to trees. Visit their website https://www.protreeremovalbrisbane.com.au/ to know
about the different services they offer.

3. Appearance
When it comes to landscaping, most homeowners want to achieve a specific design that will
compliment their property. However, a tree may be in the way, obstructing the desired effect. To keep
their intended aesthetic, most homeowners decide to remove the tree.

4. Prevent Property Damage
The roots of trees continue to extend and spread out as they mature. These roots have the potential
to damage subsurface plumbing systems as well as generate cracks in the walls. It's better to get rid
of the roots before they cause damage to your sidewalk or other structures of your house.

5. When The Tree is Dying
You have the option of waiting till it dies. However, removing it after it has died can be even more
costly. Because of their weakened structural integrity, dying trees are more likely to break and fall.
The tree could be dying from a dangerous plant disease that could spread to neighbouring trees and
plants if left unchecked. Getting removal of the tree will also keep pests out of your property.

6. Tree Disputes with Neighbors
Having a tree on your property can cause conflict with your neighbours, especially if some of the
tree's branches are hanging over the neighbor's property. The following are some of the most typical
points of contention:

7. Fences
When it comes to the tree, the law states that both neighbours are equally responsible. However, the parties
concerned should discuss further about who pays for the tree removal, what notices to give each other, and how to
manage any issues that arise as a result. When it comes to resolving concerns relating to the fencing issue, there are
several legal avenues to follow. You can either settle the issue through an arbitrator, serve the neighbor a
fencing notice or pursue the matter in a court of law. Learn more from
https://www.qld.gov.au/law/housing-and-neighbours/disputes-about-fences-trees-and-
buildings/resolving-tree-and-fence-disputes/what-to-do-if-a-neighbours-tree-is-affecting-
you#:~:text=The%20Queensland%20Civil%20and%20Administrative,good%20terms%20with%20your%20
neighbour.

8. Overhanging Branches
A property owner is solely responsible for any liability resulting from an overhanging branch. It is
advisable to consult with the tree owner before cutting the overhanging branches if they are interfering
with your comfort. This principle works for tree roots, too, as they can damage the piping systems and
even the building foundation.

9. Injuries and Damages
As the property owner, you are responsible for paying for any injuries and damages
caused by the tree on your property.

10. Tree Care and Responsibility
Having a tree on your property comes with responsibility both to the tree and the surrounding
elements, your neighbors included. Do research on the various ways you can care for the tree to
prevent any injuries or damage to property. The best way to care and take responsibility is to
remove the tree altogether. However, there are a set of rules that need to be followed. All trees in
Australia are protected by the government; hence you need proper documentation when pruning
or removing the tree altogether.

11. You can take care of your tree in a variety of ways, including:
• Providing tree fertilizer and a good growth medium as the first step.
• As the tree grows, you can introduce pesticides and herbicides to ensure the tree grows
optimally.
• Occasionally prune the tree to get rid of infected sections of the tree infected by disease or
damaged by pests.
• It is best to consult with an arborist on the proper care for your tree

12. If the tree is mostly or totally grown on your property, you are solely liable for it as the property
owner. You are deemed the tree's owner if the tree is on the boundary and the majority of the
tree is on your land.
If the branches draping on your neighbor's property are hurting the neighbor's land, you are
responsible for chopping them down if the tree is not protected under the Vegetation Protection
Order. You must also ensure that the tree does not cause any injury or property damage .

13. Before hiring an arborist to cut down the tree, you should familiarise yourself with the numerous laws
and regulations governing tree removal.
Keep in mind that under the Vegetation Protection Order, all trees are protected, so you may need to
check with the appropriate authorities before touching them. Check out
https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/laws-and-permits/laws-and-permits-for-residents/protected-
vegetation/vegetation-protection-orders for more information about this law.