Three common spring plants to avoid growing or risk ‘extensive damage’

Three common spring plants to avoid growing or risk ‘extensive damage’ and legal trouble (Image: Getty)

With spring finally here and longer, warmer days just around the corner, many homeowners will be refreshing their gardens and tackling jobs. This includes pruning plants and mowing the lawn, but an expert is also warning Brits about common plants that could lead to a denied insurance claim or unexpected legal issues.

Kara Gammell, home insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, has shared three plants which gardeners should be on the lookout for, and to act immediately if they are spotted. This includes Japanese knotweed, as well as more commonly grown plants such as wisteria.

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Japanese knotweed

While Japanese knotweed may look small and harmless, it’s a highly invasive weed that spreads quickly.

It can push through tiny cracks in concrete, tarmac and walls, according to the expert, and even block drainage systems.

Kara said: “In addition to causing costly damage, Japanese knotweed can reduce property value and may affect your home insurance. Most home insurance policies exclude damage from Japanese knotweed, as any damage caused is considered negligence.”

If Brits spot signs of it growing in your garden this spring, it’s important to call a professional to verify and treat it safely.

Wisteria

Kara explained: “Despite its charm, wisteria can be surprisingly destructive if not properly maintained.

“It grows quickly, with thick, woody stems that twist around anything in their path. Left unpruned, its roots can cause structural damage by gradually widening gaps and cracks in walls and fences.”

Bamboo

Bamboo grows rapidly in springtime, with its fast-growing roots pushing up paving, patios and driveways.

They can even force their way into small cracks in walls or foundations, according to the expert.

Kara added: “Any damage caused by wisteria or bamboo is typically considered a preventable maintenance issue and so insurers may not cover claims related to damage from overgrown plants.”

Any damage caused by wisteria or bamboo is typically considered a preventable maintenance issue, and so insurers may not cover claims related to damage from overgrown plants.

The expert added: “Not only can fast-growing plants like Japanese knotweed, but wisteria and bamboo cause extensive damage and costly repairs to your own home, but if any spread into your neighbours’ gardens, you could be held liable.

“If they continuously cause damage to your neighbour’s property, they could potentially take you to court to seek an injunction under the law of private nuisance, forcing you to take responsibility for removing them.”

According to Kara, it’s always worth being mindful of how your plants might affect those next door. Wisteria and bamboo are easily kept in check with routine pruning, while Japanese knotweed often needs a professional.