Tree Preservation Orders, what's that?

What is a TPO & What does it mean when selling a property.

A local authority has the power to safeguard trees and woodland if they are of a certain age or species. There are responsibilities and restrictions you'll need to be aware of when buying a property where a TPO is on or near the plot. You are not permitted to cut down a TPO and any trimming needs to be approved by the council and must be carried out by an agreed contractor.

So if you are a Buyer and you've found the perfect home but there is a protected tree on the plot, here are some things to consider before offering:

- Do your research on the type of tree and how often maintenance is likely to be required

- Think about how the tree will change throughout the different seasons and if this will cause you any issues

- Check with your mortgage lender if they are likely to refuse to lend or if they would demand a tree survey to be carried out

If looking to sell a house with a TPO Consider writing a factsheet that can be shared with viewers. Putting a personal spin on how you've enjoyed the tree will be well received

- If you have any photos showing how the tree looks in different seasons, you could leave these out for viewers to look at

- Pre-empt any objections by paying (around £300) and organising a tree survey to be done in advance so that any potential buyers can have their minds put at rest before even offering