Advice on what to do about neighbor's tree beginning to topple my fence

Thanks for the advice! Yes, they do still own the property. I did just get an email from the daughter of the neighbor I was friendly with telling me that they want to keep the tree (which I do too!) – but that I could consult an arborist about trimming. I let her know I’d like to keep the tree too – but the only way to do that would be to cut out the portion of their cyclone fence it was leaning against and then cut a hole in my fence (which I’m totally willing to do). After that – no response.

annep

in General Discussion 4 years and 4 months ago

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annep | 4 years and 4 months ago

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I live in a parlor floor condo next to a building that’s been undergoing renovations for several years. I used to be on really friendly terms with my neighbors but they moved away during renovations and have stopped responding to texts. Fast forward to now – there’s a tree on their side of our property line which has been growing steadily and is now leaning against their cyclone fence which in turn is pushing against my fence. My fence is now on the verge of coming apart (the top board already has). I’ve called, texted, left a note on their door – all offering to cover any costs, but letting them know that I wanted to talk to them about options. Our building manager has done the same – and no response. At what point am I allowed to hop their fence and start cutting apart their cyclone fence so that I can relieve the pressure? Simply cutting a hole in my fence will not solve the issue. TIA for any advice. [IMG_8487](//muut.com/u/brownstoner/s3/:brownstoner:xvXj:img_8487.jpg.jpg)

hkapstein | 4 years and 4 months ago

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The first in my view step would be to formally notify the owner of that building that the tree is a hazard to your property. Generally knowledge of a hazardous condition exposes the owner to more liability. A certified letter ought to do the job. Now on the other hand, the general solution to these types of problems is to cut down the tree. I hate seeing healthy old trees in the back yards get cut down so I hope you’ll try to work something out.

cate | 4 years and 4 months ago

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Are you sure they still own the place? Maybe they lost their cell or got a new number?