Japanese knotweed is a non-native invasive plant species governed by legislation and is a risk to property.
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boundaries of the property or close to the boundary on an adjacent property. |
If you are selling or buying a property that is affected by Japanese knotweed it would be prudent to obtain a Japanese knotweed survey to obtain a Japanese knotweed survey and report. A survey will provide a formal Japanese knotweed identification, an accurate record of where the knotweed is located, the extent of the risk zones and remedial feasibility study.
To help understand and categorise the level of risk that the knotweed presents to the property, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) have created a “risk” table (see table below). The level of risk is defined by the proximity of the knotweed to the habitable area or the property boundary and if any structural damage has been caused.
Japanese Knotweed Survey Costs
*The Japanese knotweed survey is FREE, but if we find 'no knotweed' within the property and then additionally we find that the property is 'not affected by knotweed' present in neighbouring properties, we will charge £140 +VAT for the call out (i.e. £168).
Commercial & Construction
Knotweed Survey
- Full site surveys conducted to establish problem and risk
- Assessment of problem against any proposed development plans
- Remediation proposal issued within Knotweed Management Plan document
Residential Knotweed Survey
- Ideal for home sellers & buyers/mortgage lenders of knotweed affected property
- The Japanese Knotweed survey report includes the RICS Japanese Knotweed Risk Categories
- Includes an accurate drawing using an Ordnance Survey map
- Required for the Insurance Backed Guarantee
- Japanese Knotweed Ltd are members of the Property Care Association Invasive Weed Control Group (PCAIWCG)
Knotweed Plan Proposal
A professional Japanese knotweed identification, detailed account of our findings, photographs, location plan and confirmation on the knotweed RICS property risk category will all be included in a Knotweed Management Plan (KMP) proposal. This will include a record of any visible signs of damage caused by the knotweed to the buildings, ancillary structures or hard standing/paving.
The KMP will quantify the extent of the problem and may also identify knotweed in neighbouring gardens. It will include the cost of remedial works and guarantees to enable you to establish the true and realistic costs.
This applies for all mainland counties in England, Scotland and Wales.
Example of a Japanese Knotweed Site Plan
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Japanese Knotweed Risk Categories
The RICS Japanese Knotweed information paper explains the background to Japanese knotweed in the UK, considers how lenders have different policies on dealing with its presence, describes effective treatment and includes an assessment framework. The four categories of risk are as follows:
| Category | Descriptors - Japanese knotweed risk categories (4 being the highest risk) |
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4 |
Japanese knotweed is within 7 metres of a habitable space, conservatory and/or garage, either within the boundaries of this property or in a neighbouring property or space; Further investigations by an appropriately qualified and/or experienced person are required (Japanese Knotweed Limited) |
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3 |
Although Japanese knotweed is present within the boundaries of the property, it is more than 7 metres from a habitable space, conservatory, and/or garage. If there is damage to outbuildings, associated structures, paths and boundary walls and fences, it is minor. Further investigations by an appropriately qualified and/or experienced person are required (Japanese Knotweed Limited) Further investigations by an appropriately qualified and/or experienced person are required (Japanese Knotweed Limited) |
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2 |
Japanese knotweed was not seen within the boundaries of this property, but it was seen on a neighbouring property or land. Here, it was within 7 metres of the boundary, but more than 7 metres away from habitable spaces, conservatory and/or garage of the subject property. |
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1 |
Japanese knotweed was not seen on this property, but it can be seen on a neighbouring property or land where it was more than 7 metres away from the boundary. |
