Guidelines for tree care
The following general guidelines for tree care have been provided by our tree consultant Tony George. They are the basic principles we adhere to in considering all applications for tree works.
Trees should be retained in their natural shape and form wherever possible. Large trees may need thinning by an experienced professional to avoid excessive shade. A healthy tree may be ruined or killed by drastic lopping, while unskilled pruning can produce areas which are affected by fungus and decay, as well as making the tree structurally unsound.
To avoid damaging the tree or adjacent property or causing injury, large trees should only be pruned by experienced professionals. Find a contractor approved by The Arboricultural Association.
There are various ways in which trees close to buildings can cause structural problems. Tree removal can result in ground heave – but the roots of a living tree can also affect building structures. In Dulwich, the sub soil is composed of heavy shrinkable clay; in extremely dry periods, this has resulted in severe structural problems, which are exacerbated by root activity. If such problems arise, homeowners should take the advice of a chartered surveyor or structural engineer, as well as informing their insurance company.