Japanese Knotweed – Buyer Beware.

December 11, 2015

Japanese Knotweed is an invasive plant and was first discovered by Swedish naturalist Carl Peter Thunberg during the 18th century.  By the twentieth century it became apparent that Japanese Knotweed is an invasive plant and needs to be dealt with. There are different types of solutions for treating or eradicating Japanese Knotweed from herbicide treatment to excavation.

If a potential property buyer identifies Japanese Knotweed in the property then the implications could be serious. The invasive plant inflicts damage on brickwork and drainage systems and as a result, mortgage lenders may be reluctant to lend and the property insurers may not want to insure the property. Unfortunately all too often homeowners are oblivious to Japanese Knotweed until the time comes to sell their properties. Although the presence of  knotweed can be problematic, solutions are available.

When selling the property, the seller will need to fill in a form called a TA6 provided by the Solicitor and it is on this form that they declare whether the property is affected by Japanese Knotweed. The seller will need to be able to identify whether there is Japanese Knotweed or if they can’t, they should contact a Japanese Knotweed contractor that can help them identify it. This can simply be achieved by sending in a photo of the plant by email for identification by the contractor.

As for the buyer, it is equally important that they speak to their Solicitor and also contact a Japanese Knotweed contractor to help identify the plant. Once it has been identified, the seller should seek advice from a Japanese knotweed specialist company to discuss how best to put measures in place to treat the infestation and manage the problem. A specialist will be able to provide information on the following: site surveys, Knotweed Management Plan (KMP), herbicide treatment and monitoring program, excavations  and Insurance-Backed Guarantees (IBG).

 

Alex Evans

You May Also Enjoy

Estate Agent Talk

How to Pick the Ideal Utilities for your Business

Sorting out utilities might not be the most exciting part of running a business, but it is one of those things that quietly affects everything else. Whether it is your electricity, gas, water or internet, these services keep your business moving day to day. Getting them right can help you stay in control of costs…
Read More →
Letting Agent Talk

Advice for London landlords and tenants ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act implementation

Phase one of the Renters’ Rights Act (RRA) comes into force on 1 May 2026, and with it brings about the most significant overhaul of the private rental sector in a generation. While the Act will see new responsibilities introduced, it will also offer an opportunity for landlords to strengthen their practices with a clear…
Read More →
Estate Agent Talk

Budget-friendly ways to boost your chances of a successful spring house sale

With many households feeling the pressure of changing global economic conditions, tighter finances, and the high costs associated with moving, such as Stamp Duty, legal fees and removals, selling a home can currently feel like challenge. At the same time, spring traditionally brings a surge in buyer activity. Longer days and better weather tend to encourage more viewings,…
Read More →
Letting Agent Talk

Expert Reacts To Renters’ Rights Act Ahead of Changes This Week

The Renters’ Rights Act comes into force this week (1st May), introducing major reforms to tenancy structures, eviction rules, and tenant protections across England. The changes will reshape how landlords manage properties and how tenants experience private renting, with significant implications for student private rentals and the wider rental market. Ahead of implementation, Owen Dixon,…
Read More →
Breaking News

52% of buyers are cash purchasers – and they’re ready to move

New research from LRG reveals that sellers entering the spring market are meeting an unusually large pool of cash-ready buyers, many of whom aren’t constrained by affordability, but by a lack of suitable homes. According to LRG’s Spring 2026 Sales Report, based on a survey of 307 buyers and sellers across England and Wales, more than…
Read More →
for sale sign london
Breaking News

Landlords sell up as Renters’ Rights prove final straw

Leading Kent and London law firm Thackray Williams have had a wave of last-minute instructions from landlords looking to sell their portfolios ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force this Friday. The litigation team has been instructed to seek possession by landlords wishing to sell their entire buy-to-let portfolios, as well as last-minute…
Read More →