04 November 2025
What Do I Do If I Find Japanese Knotweed On My Property? JCP Solicitors provides expert legal advice and guidance to clients across Pembrokeshire and the surrounding area. Ben Davies, Director in the Property Litigation team at JCP Solicitors, explains what to do if you spot knotweed on a property you own or rent to contract holders.
What Problems Does Japanese Knotweed Cause?
Japanese knotweed is an invasive non-native species, which is now classed as the most invasive plant in the UK. It is known to cause property and land damage by blocking drains, weakening foundations, and damaging walls. This means that when Japanese knotweed is found on a property, it can devalue the property or land and makes it much harder to insure and to sell.
What is more, the cost of removing Japanese knotweed can be steep: treating the area where it grows to completely eradicate knotweed is time-consuming and costly.
What Do I Do If I Have Knotweed On My Property?
Whether you are the owner or an occupier of land or property, it is your responsibility to manage knotweed if it is found on your property. Allowing knotweed to spread to neighbouring land could result in you being liable in nuisance to compensate your neighbour.
The compensation could cover the cost of knotweed removal for your neighbour; mediation works for property damage; and ‘loss of enjoyment’ if the neighbour stops being able to use part of their garden or property due to the damage caused.
When Does Knotweed Become A Problem?
According to RICS guidelines, if the knotweed is within 7 metres of your home it may start to cause material damage.
If you own the property or land and spot knotweed, it is advisable to take immediate action to arrange its removal. If you are renting a home and you see knotweed in the garden, inform your landlord immediately as they are often responsible for treating the problem.
If you are a tenant farmer, check your lease agreement to see who is responsible for knotweed removal as this can depend on what has been agreed between you and the landowner.
If you see Japanese knotweed on your neighbour’s land or property and you are concerned it may reach yours, consider speaking with the neighbour to understand their plans for the knotweed removal. You may also wish to take legal advice and speak to an expert property litigation specialist if you would prefer a third party manages the issue. At JCP Solicitors, we can advise and support you to find the best solution for your circumstances.
For specialist advice and guidance on Japanese knotweed removal in Pembrokeshire, contact Ben Davies by emailing Benjamin.davies@jcpsolicitors.co.uk or call 01437 764723.
