Tree related building subsidence
Trees Owned by St Albans City & District Council
Trees growing in shrinkable clay soils can sometimes contribute to subsidence. This happens when roots draw moisture from the soil, causing ground movement and cracks in property walls.
If you suspect that subsidence at your property is linked to a Council-owned tree, your first step should be to contact your building insurance provider. They will investigate and help determine the cause of the damage. You may also appoint a building surveyor or structural engineer to gather supporting evidence.
Making a Subsidence Claim
To submit a claim involving a Council-owned tree, you must provide the following minimum evidence:
- Proof of property ownership
- 12 months of continuous level monitoring
- 12 months of continuous crack width monitoring
- Structural investigation report, including foundation investigations, boreholes, and positions of cracks in relation to trees
- Engineering appraisal report
- Arboricultural report, identifying tree proximity to the property and DNA root identification
- Heave calculations, along with indemnity against potential damage resulting from heave (may not be required depending on claim type)
Once you have gathered all the required evidence, please contact us at:
insurance.claims@stalbans.gov.uk
Who to Contact if the tree is not owned by the Council
If the issue involves a tree on a public highway, please contact Hertfordshire County Council.
If the tree is on private property such as a private garden, you should contact the landowner or occupier directly.
Protected Trees
Please note that some trees may be protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO or may be located within a a conservation area. Special permissions may be required before any work can be carried out.