Invasive plant species are a growing concern for homeowners in Ireland. Japanese knotweed is one of the worst offenders. It can damage your property and lower its value. If you’re buying, selling, or maintaining your home, knowing the risks is essential. A property survey is a good place to start when checking for these invasive plants.
What is Japanese knotweed?
Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is a highly invasive plant species. It spreads quickly and is difficult to eradicate. Originally introduced in the 19th century as an ornamental plant, it is now a major problem. Japanese knotweed can grow up to 10 cm a day during summer. Its roots can damage buildings and infrastructure.
Japanese knotweed is invasive because it outcompetes native plants. It spreads through its rhizomes (underground stems), making it hard to control. The plant can disrupt gardens, roadsides, and even buildings.
How Japanese knotweed affects property surveys
Surveyors inspect for invasive plant species during property surveys. The presence of Japanese knotweed can cause several problems for homeowners:
Damage to structures
Japanese knotweed’s roots can break through concrete, brickwork, and drains. This damage is expensive to repair and may weaken a building’s structure.
Reduction in property value
If Japanese knotweed is found, its removal can be costly. Professional treatment can take years. This reduces the value of a property, as potential buyers may be wary of purchasing an affected home.
Mortgage issues
Many mortgage lenders won’t approve loans for homes with knotweed infestations. They typically require a treatment plan before proceeding. This can make buying or selling a home more difficult.
Legal complications
Japanese knotweed can spread onto neighbouring properties. This can lead to legal disputes over responsibility for removal. The plant can also damage boundary walls, creating further complications.
What to do if Japanese knotweed is found
If your property survey indicates the presence of Japanese knotweed, act quickly:
Get expert confirmation
Hire a specialist to confirm the infestation. They can assess how serious the problem is.
Create a removal plan
A professional removal plan is essential. Knotweed requires specific treatment to control and remove it effectively.
Inform mortgage providers
Notify your mortgage provider if you’re buying or selling. They may require confirmation of treatment before proceeding with the loan.
Avoid DIY removal
Do not attempt to remove the plant yourself. Cutting or disturbing it may cause it to spread faster. Always hire professionals for safe removal.
Other invasive plant species to watch for
Japanese knotweed isn’t the only invasive plant species to watch for. Several others can cause issues for property owners:
Giant hogweed
This towering plant produces a toxic sap that causes severe burns when exposed to sunlight. It spreads quickly along riverbanks and roadsides. Contact with it can cause painful blisters and long-term skin sensitivity.
Himalayan balsam
Himalayan balsam has attractive pink flowers, but it is highly invasive. It spreads rapidly along riverbanks, crowding out native plants. The plant weakens riverbanks, increasing the risk of erosion and flooding.
Rhododendron ponticum
This shrub forms dense thickets that block light and nutrients from native plants. It is difficult to control because of its rapid spread. The plant’s growth makes land inaccessible and unmanageable.
Invasive plant species like Japanese knotweed pose serious risks to homeowners in Ireland. They can damage your property, reduce its value, and cause legal or financial complications. If your property survey identifies Japanese knotweed, giant hogweed, Himalayan balsam, or rhododendron ponticum, act quickly. Consult experts for help and treatment. Early intervention is key to managing these invasive plant species effectively.