What is a TPO? And how can it affect a property sale?
TPO stands for Tree Protection Order. A local authority has the power to safeguard trees and woodland if they are a certain age or species for example.
There are responsibilities and restrictions you’ll need to be aware of when buying a property where a TPO is on or near the plot.
You are not permitted to cut down a TPO and any trimming needs to be approved by the council and must be carried out by an agreed contractor.
Buyers
So, you’ve found the perfect home but there is a protected tree(s) on the plot, here are some things to consider before offering:
- Do your research on the type of tree and how often maintenance is likely to be required
- Think about how the tree will change throughout the different seasons and if this will cause you any grievances
- Check with your mortgage lender if they are likely to refuse to lend or if they would demand a tree survey to be carried out
Think ahead to when you might plan to sell on the property. If the tree is off-putting to you, could it be difficult to resell?
Sellers
As well as the above, it is important to be mindful that some buyers will be concerned about a TPO on the land, if you are struggling to sell or just want to put yourself in the best position, here’s my tips:
- Consider writing a factsheet that can be shared with viewers. Putting a personal spin on how you’ve enjoyed the tree(s) will be well received if research provided is accurate
- If you have any photos showing how the tree looks in different seasons, you could leave these out for viewers to look at
- Pre-empt any objections by paying for (around £300) and organising a tree survey to be done in advance so that any potential buyers can have their minds put at rest before even offering
If you’d like to talk through a specific circumstance, I’m more than happy to help. You’ll find my contact details below
07863 979 808