The neighbourly thing to do is to keep trees trimmed so the branches don't grow over neighbours' properties and become a nuisance. Is there any legal obligation regarding this?
Denise de Groot, Rothesay Bay.
Indeed there is, both nationally and locally. Where trees on a property cause a nuisance and interfere with a neighbour's right to enjoy their land, legal remedies may be available to compensate or rectify the problem.
Compensation can be sought in the Disputes Tribunal for damage caused by trees - such as roots blocking a drain - up to a claim of $15,000 (or $20,000 if both parties agree).
The law also allows a "self-help" remedy, such as cutting off encroaching roots or overhanging branches.
The Property Law Act 2007 (sections 333 to 338) gives a District Court judge the power to order an occupier to remove or trim trees where they unduly obstruct a view or are an actual or potential risk to life, health or property.