Property experts have warned that four common plants can cause havoc in your garden and home
David Bentley Content Writer (Money and Events)
21:31, 24 Oct 2025Updated 21:32, 24 Oct 2025
There are four plants you should consider removing from your garden as they could damage property(Image: Cavan Images via Getty Images)
Property experts have issued a warning to homeowners about four ‘dangerous’ plants that should be removed from gardens immediately. These seemingly harmless plants can cause significant damage to properties, leading to cracked masonry and damaged drainage systems, as well as potential legal issues, according to BirminghamLive.
Homeowners are being advised that dealing with these problematic plants sooner rather than later could save them a lot of money in the long run. Kevin Barzegar, a property specialist at Kaybridge Residential, has seen first-hand how these particular species can impact house sales and maintenance costs.
“I’ve seen properties lose thousands in value because of problematic plants,” Kevin revealed.
“What starts as an innocent garden feature can turn into a nightmare that’s expensive to fix and puts off potential buyers.”
Kevin goes on to identify the four plants that you should never let take root in your garden, explaining why they’re so damaging and suggesting alternative plants you could grow instead.
1. English ivy – the masonry wrecker.
English ivy might look charming, but it can be disastrous for your home. This climbing plant attaches itself to walls using tiny roots that burrow into mortar and stonework, causing cracks and decay.
“English ivy is one of the worst offenders I see,” Kevin said. “Those roots get into the smallest cracks and expand as they grow, causing serious damage to brickwork.”
The dense foliage can trap moisture against walls, leading to damp problems and providing a haven for pests. It’s a substantial task to remove it; you can’t simply pull it off without causing further damage to your walls.
A better alternative: Consider flowering climbers like clematis or climbing roses trained on trellises away from walls.
2. Bamboo – the subterranean invader.
Bamboo provides attractive privacy screens but has one of the most aggressive root systems around. These roots spread horizontally underground at an alarming rate.
“I’ve seen bamboo roots travel several metres from where they were planted,” Kevin disclosed. “They push through paving, damage structures, and can crack foundations.”
Once established, bamboo is incredibly hard to control. The roots regenerate from tiny fragments, meaning shoots can appear all over your garden, and your neighbour’s too.
A better alternative: Try ornamental grasses like miscanthus or tall perennials for a similar height without the invasive roots.
3. Japanese knotweed – the property value destroyer.
This invasive plant is every homeowner’s nightmare. Mortgage lenders often categorise properties with Japanese knotweed as high-risk, and many will only agree to lend if a professional treatment plan backed by an insurance guarantee is in place.
“Japanese knotweed can make your property virtually unsellable,” Kevin cautioned. “I’ve seen sales collapse and homes drop in value significantly because of it.”
The plant can grow up to 10cm a day, boasting sturdy roots that exploit gaps in paving, brickwork, and foundations. Under the UK’s Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it’s an offence to allow knotweed to spread into the wild, and if it encroaches onto a neighbour’s property, you could be subject to civil claims and expensive removal.
Treatment typically spans years and can cost anywhere from £900 up to £20,000 depending on severity. A better alternative: For quick-growing screening, consider photinia or laurel hedging plants.
4. Willow trees – the drain destroyer.
Willow trees are beautiful, but planting one too close invites trouble. Their roots actively seek out water, heading straight for drains and pipes.
“Willow roots can extend up to three times the height of the tree,” Kevin explained. “A 10-meter willow could have roots spreading 30 meters, easily reaching underground pipes.”
The damage can be extensive, including cracked pipes, blocked drains, and ground movement affecting foundations. Repair costs run into thousands.
A better alternative: Plant willows at least 40 meters from buildings, or opt for smaller trees like Japanese maples.
Kevin concluded: “Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to problem plants. If you’ve already got any of these in your garden, the sooner you act, the better. Removing them early is far cheaper and easier than dealing with structural damage down the line.
“I always advise homeowners to think long-term when choosing plants. What looks attractive now could become a serious liability in a few years. Check how plants grow, how their roots behave, and whether they could cause problems for your property or your neighbours.
“If you’re buying a property, always look out for these plants during viewings. Japanese knotweed in particular should be a major red flag. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or get a specialist survey if you’re concerned. It could save you thousands.”
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