Overgrown gardens can cause more than a bit of frustration. From brambles sneaking through your fence to trees casting a shadow over your sunny spot, an untidy garden next door can quickly become your problem too.
Even if you get on well with your neighbour, knowing what you’re allowed to do – and where to turn if things escalate – can be tricky. So, here’s a straightforward guide to the most common garden-related problems and how to deal with them calmly, legally, and with as little stress as possible.
Common problems caused by overgrown gardens
Unwanted pests
An unkempt garden can attract a wide range of pests, from rats and foxes to insects and flies. Once they arrive, they don’t tend to respect boundaries – they might damage your plants, leave droppings, or cause noise, which is not ideal.
What you can do:
- Speak to your neighbour first – they might not realise there’s a problem.
- Report serious cases to the council, especially if vermin are involved. The Environmental Protection Act 1990 means the council can step in if a garden becomes a public health risk.
- Avoid DIY pest control near boundaries – never place traps or poison where pets or people might be harmed.
- Keep your garden tidy – pests are less likely to hang around if there’s no food or shelter.
Fly-tipping or dumped rubbish
Old furniture, abandoned vehicles, or piles of rubbish next door can be more than an eyesore. They can cause smells, attract pests, and affect how your property looks to potential buyers or visitors.
What you can do:
- Report fly-tipping to your local council – they usually have a dedicated team for this.
- Avoid moving the rubbish yourself, especially not onto anyone else’s land.
- The law is on your side – under the Refuse Disposal (Amenity) Act 1978, councils can act against persistent or dangerous dumping.
Overgrown weeds, bushes and grass
If next door’s greenery is growing through your fence or blocking drains, it’s more than just messy – it could lead to damage or cause health issues, especially for people with allergies.
What you can do:
- Trim anything overhanging your side – you can legally cut back branches or plants up to your boundary.
- Don’t step onto their land – even if it’s just to tidy things up. Always stay on your side of the fence.
- Offer the cuttings back – it’s the neighbour’s plant, after all, though they might just ask you to dispose of it.
- Check with the council if the issue affects public paths – they may be able to issue a notice if it’s blocking access.
Trees and hedges blocking the sunlight
A tall hedge or tree might spoil your afternoon sun or even become a safety risk if branches hang over your home.
What you can do:
- Check if the tree is protected – some trees are covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), meaning you’ll need council permission to cut anything.
- For very tall hedges – if it’s more than two metres and affecting your enjoyment of your home, the High Hedges Act 2005 could help. Councils can ask the owner to reduce the height.
- Trim overhanging branches on your side – but don’t remove too much or damage the tree.
What to do if you’re moving?
Neighbouring gardens can have an impact on your kerb appeal – and in some cases, your property’s value. If your neighbour’s garden is untidy and affecting your viewings, talk to your estate agent about how best to respond.
It’s a good idea to stay positive. You could say your neighbour is lovely but not especially green-fingered – and be honest about what you can and can’t control. A few polite words can go a long way, and many buyers will appreciate your transparency.
Need advice about selling or letting?
Whether you’re ready to move or just weighing up your options, Northwood’s local experts are here to help. We know the area, understand what buyers and tenants are looking for, and can offer trusted advice to guide your next step.
Book a free, no-obligation valuation with your local Northwood office today.
