Tree Management Policy 2025 - Indirect and direct root damage

Indirect root damage, or subsidence, caused by roots absorbing moisture from shrinkable soils can cause the foundations of a structure to move up and down and can result in walls cracking. Tree roots can also occasionally cause direct damage by exerting pressure against a structure.  

Incidents of subsidence and direct root damage by Council owned trees are uncommon in the District because the significant majority of Council land sits on sandy loamy soils that, unlike some clay soils, are more stable regardless of moisture content. 

If a property owner suspects that the roots of Council-owned trees are causing damage, they must contact their insurer and seek their advice. The insurance company will then contact the Council’s insurer who will advise that they must submit technical information consistent with the London Tree Officer Association (LTOA) Joint Mitigation Protocol. Requests to carry out tree works to mitigate the influence of tree roots will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.