Expert: Homeowners' mortgages could be affected by the presence of Japanese knotweed

Posted: 22 Jul 2010 11:07:51 GMT

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics) has urged homeowners to be aware of the signs of a Japanese knotweed infestation.

Spokesman from Rics Jim Gibson explained the plant can prove problematic for those who own property as many mortgage firms will not lend to those who have it on their land.

He said Britons who want to put their dwelling on the market but have the weed in their garden will have to have it removed by a professional, but it could take weeks or even months to get rid of it.

"In particular, chartered surveyors need to be very vigilant when conducting home reports as they could potentially be pursued for damages if knotweed is found on the property yet not reported," Mr Gibson added.

According to the Environment Agency, Japanese knotweed has heart-shaped leaves with white flowers during the autumn months and the stem looks similar to bamboo.

The plant causes problems as it can expose weaknesses in buildings, concrete and tarmac.


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