If you are selling – You would be advised to commission a Knotweed Survey
**Demystifying the Japanese Knotweed Identification and Removal Process**
Japanese Knotweed – the very name can strike fear into the hearts of homeowners and property enthusiasts. Its rapid growth and invasive nature have earned it a notorious reputation. But fear not! We’re here to demystify the process of identifying and removing Japanese Knotweed, giving you the tools and knowledge you need to tackle this challenge head-on.
If you sell a property and the presence of Knotweed is subsequently discovered, you could be liable. There was a recent case in London, where the buyers Surveyor indicated that there was no sign on Knotweed, but you need to keep in mind that where Knotweed is concerned, Surveyors only conduct a fleeting glance, at best. They are not liable, if it transpires that there is Knotweed, and in this case there was and the buyer proceeded to pursue the seller through the courts and the seller was forced to pay a significant sum plus costs.
Unless you are 100% certain, do not indicate that there is not Knotweed in your property, when you complete the seller questionnaire. It is preferable to indicate that you do not know and if you want an additional layer of protection, it would definitely be worth to commission a professional survey, especially if you are in a Knotweed hotspot, such as London, through the midlands corridor and south Wales.
If you do happen to have Knotweed, for the average house, it will cost between £2,000-£3,000 for the treatment, monitoring and the necessary 10 year guarantee, so that your home will meet the lender’s criteria, in order for your buyers to be able to proceed.
The Process
**Step 1: The Identification Dance**
The first step on this journey is proper identification. Japanese Knotweed comes in various forms throughout its growth cycle, and mistaking it for something else can lead to wasted efforts. Fortunately, technology comes to the rescue. Capture clear pictures of the suspect growth, paying attention to its leaves, stems, and overall appearance. These images will be your allies in this battle.
Reach out to a team of experts like us, who specialize in Japanese Knotweed identification. Our skilled specialists can promptly analyze your images and confirm whether you’re indeed dealing with this notorious plant. This initial step sets the tone for the entire removal process.
**Step 2: The Comprehensive Survey**
Once you’ve established that Japanese Knotweed has indeed invaded your space, it’s time to get serious. This is where a comprehensive survey enters the picture. A qualified surveyor, equipped with knowledge and accredited by bodies like the Property Care Association, steps in. They’re like detectives on a mission, mapping out the extent of the infestation.
During the survey, the goals are clear:
1. **Mapping the Invasion:** The surveyor identifies and marks all areas affected by Japanese Knotweed. This gives a clear picture of the scope of the issue.
2. **Presenting Remediation Options:** Armed with the survey findings, the experts lay out various options for addressing the problem. This might include herbicide treatment, excavation, or other strategies.
3. **Documenting the Intruder:** Photographs become a powerful tool for future reference. The surveyor captures clear images of the infestation, providing a visual record of the problem.
4. **Assessing the Risk:** A Risk Assessment Category helps understand the potential impact of Japanese Knotweed on your property and its surroundings.
5. **Biosecurity Measures:** To prevent further spread, biosecurity measures are discussed. These steps are crucial to stop the invasive plant from wreaking havoc in new areas.
6. **The Proposal:** The survey culminates in a comprehensive written proposal that includes a competitive quote and a 10-year Insurance Backed Guarantee.
**Step 3: The Removal Odyssey**
Once you’ve reviewed and accepted the proposal, the actual removal process begins. This involves executing a carefully crafted Knotweed Management Plan (KMP). Here’s where experienced operations teams step in. They become your allies, offering guidance, support, and a helping hand through the process.
Site visits are documented, and a schedule of works is maintained. Every step is meticulously planned and executed. Post-treatment monitoring is carried out to ensure the eradication was successful and that the plant doesn’t reappear.
**Step 4: The Vigilant Watch**
Post-removal, the vigilance continues. Thanks to the PCA accreditation, a 2-year monitoring period is part of the package. This monitoring phase ensures that no sneaky regrowth occurs. And to give you extra peace of mind, a 10-year Insurance Backed Guarantee is provided, meeting the requirements of major mortgage lenders and providers.
**In Conclusion**
Facing Japanese Knotweed may seem like a daunting task, but it’s a challenge that can be conquered. Armed with knowledge, experts, and a systematic process, you can bid farewell to this invasive plant. Identification, surveying, removal, and monitoring – each step is vital in achieving a Knotweed-free property. So, if you’re caught in the clutches of Japanese Knotweed, remember that a well-organised process and a supportive team are your best allies.