Japanese Knotweed Disputes Solicitors
Japanese knotweed is one of the most invasive plants in the UK. If it spreads onto your property or is affecting your ability to sell or develop land, you may be entitled to take legal action to protect your interests and recover losses.
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Japanese knotweed can cause significant damage to buildings, walls, patios and drains if left untreated. It also poses serious issues for homeowners and landowners – reducing property value and complicating mortgage and insurance applications.
Our property litigation team, led by Daniel Stern, has extensive experience advising on Japanese knotweed claims. We regularly assist clients with disputes involving encroachment from neighbouring land, misrepresentation in property sales, and failure by landlords or developers to manage infestations.
Whether you’re facing an ongoing spread from a neighbour’s garden, or you’ve only just discovered knotweed after purchasing a property, our solicitors are here to help you secure a resolution and protect your investment.
If you need advice, call us on 0330 111 3131 or use the contact form on this page.
What is Japanese knotweed?
Japanese knotweed is a fast-growing, invasive plant that spreads through underground rhizomes. It can grow through tarmac, concrete and walls, causing structural damage and making property sales difficult.
Because of the risks it poses, knotweed is listed under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. While it isn’t illegal to have it on your land, allowing it to spread can give rise to civil claims or enforcement action.
Types of Japanese knotweed disputes we can help with
Our property litigation solicitors advise on a wide range of knotweed-related issues, including:
- Encroachment of knotweed from neighbouring land
- Property misrepresentation or non-disclosure of knotweed in sales
- Developer or landlord failures to manage infestations
- Claims for property damage caused by knotweed
- Recovery of treatment and repair costs
- Loss of property value linked to knotweed presence
If you’re unsure whether you have grounds for a claim, we can quickly assess your situation and explain your legal options.
How our Property Litigation solicitors can help
Every knotweed dispute is different. Some cases can be resolved through negotiation with a neighbour or seller, while others may require court proceedings to secure compensation.
We’ll work with you to:
- Establish liability for the knotweed spread
- Quantify the damage and financial loss caused
- Pursue claims for treatment costs and loss of property value
- Seek long-term solutions, including enforceable treatment plans
We’ll always aim for a swift, cost-effective resolution that minimises stress and disruption.
Knotweed and property sales
Japanese knotweed is a well-known red flag for buyers and lenders. Sellers have a legal duty to disclose whether a property is affected when completing a TA6 property form. Failure to do so can give rise to claims for misrepresentation.
Our team can advise both buyers and sellers on disclosure obligations, potential liabilities and remedies if knotweed is discovered after a purchase.
Why choose Slater Heelis?
As one of the leading property litigation teams in the North West, we have a strong track record in resolving Japanese knotweed disputes quickly and effectively.
We understand the financial and emotional impact knotweed can have – from difficulty selling your home to costly repairs – and we’ll work tirelessly to protect your interests.
You’ll benefit from:
- Clear, practical advice tailored to your situation
- Fast, decisive action when you need it most
- Experience in both negotiation and litigation of knotweed claims
- A full-service law firm able to draw on real estate and litigation expertise
