Invasive plants: It’s not just Knotweed

7th December 2022 | Shen Hussein | residential, residential real estate

In this short article, Solicitor Sensel Hussein explains that Japanese Knotweed is not the only invasive species of plants that can cause issues for homeowners.

Bamboo is not classed as an invasive weed as it is not currently listed under Schedule 9, Part II of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 198, this does not however mean it is not a problem. 

It has been reported that cases are becoming more common and homeowners are taking legal action against neighbours who have allowed the plant to spread.

Bamboo is known to spread far beyond its intended planting bed and can cover vast areas.

There are two main types of invasive Bamboo in the UK:

1. Running bamboo, with an aggressive growth habit, is known to spread uncontrollably. They have a large network of roots and rhizomes, which are underground roots that grow horizontally and assist the plant to colonise new areas. This type of bamboo can invade neighbouring gardens and even pose a risk to the structural foundation of houses and buildings; and
2. Clumping bamboo, while not as aggressive, can spread underground.

Unlike Japanese knotweed, there is currently no legal requirement for a seller to disclose the existence of bamboo, either growing on their property or due to the spread from a neighbouring property. Buyers are therefore seeking professional surveys to be undertaken in order that the bamboo infestation can be assessed to understand the risk of damage to the property they are proposing to purchase or encroachment to neighbouring properties.