Japanese Knotweed Claims
Japanese Knotweed is becoming an increasing concern across the country, and for property owners, it can bring both practical challenges and legal headaches. At Roach Pittis, we offer clear, expert advice on your legal rights and how to claim compensation where appropriate.
Whether you’ve discovered Japanese Knotweed on your own land or you’re worried about it spreading from a neighbouring property, we’re here to help. We specialise in land-related disputes and have particular expertise in nuisance claims involving invasive plants like Knotweed.
What’s the Issue?
Japanese Knotweed can seriously impact property value and structural integrity. In many cases, it can lead to:
Property damage – including harm to walls, foundations, and other structures
Devaluation – properties with Knotweed can lose up to 10% of their market value
Mortgage difficulties – many lenders refuse to offer mortgages or remortgages where Knotweed is present
Difficulty selling – even interested buyers may struggle to proceed due to lending restrictions
If you’ve found Knotweed on your property, someone may be legally responsible, and you could be entitled to compensation.
Who Could Be Liable?
Depending on the circumstances, liability might fall to:
A neighbouring landowner – If Japanese knotweed has encroached from adjacent land, the owner of that land my be held liable under the law of private nuisance. You could allow you to recover compensation for the resulting loss in value to your property and the costs of treatment.
A seller – If you purchased a property affected by Japanese knotweed within the last 6 years and the seller stated in the TA6 Property Information Form that the property was free from it, you may have grounds for a misrepresentation claim. This could allow you to seek compensation for the resulting loss in property value and the costs of treatment.
A solicitor – If your conveyancer failed to identify or act upon the presence of Japanese knotweed during the purchase process, you may have grounds for a professional negligence claim. You could be entitled to recover the resulting loss in property value, along with the costs of treatment.
A surveyor – If your surveyor failed to identify visible signs of Japanese knotweed during the pre purchase inspection, this may give rise to a professional negligence claim. You may be entitled to recover the associated loss in value and the costs of treatment.
Importantly, if Knotweed is now on your property, you must take steps to stop it from spreading, otherwise, you may face legal claims from neighbours.
No Win, No Fee Available
In many cases, we can pursue Knotweed-related claims on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis. That means there’s no upfront cost to you; we’re paid only if your claim succeeds.
How We Can Help
Assess your legal position and who may be liable
Provide practical guidance on next steps
Coordinate with trusted Knotweed eradication specialists
Pursue your claim efficiently and professionally — from start to finish
We work with carefully selected eradication companies who can help manage the infestation while we handle the legal side.
Speak to Us Today
