TPOs and Property: What Homeowners Need to Know

Do I need a TPO check before buying?

Your solicitor's local land charges search should reveal any TPOs registered against the property. But searches take time, and you might want to know before you commit emotionally or financially. A quick check on TPO Search takes seconds and gives you an early indication.

A TPO is not a reason to walk away from a property. It simply means you cannot remove or significantly prune certain trees without consent from the planning authority. Many homeowners live happily with TPO trees for decades.

What does a TPO mean for my property value?

Mature trees generally increase property value. Estate agents often highlight them as features. A TPO protects that asset — it means your neighbour cannot remove a tree that contributes to the character of the area.

The flip side: if a TPO tree is causing problems (blocking light, damaging foundations), you cannot simply remove it. You need to apply for consent, which adds time and uncertainty. Buyers should factor this into their plans if they intend to alter the garden significantly.

My tree has a TPO — what can I do?

You can still maintain it. Dead wood removal, emergency safety work, and work required by law are all exempt. For anything else — pruning, crown reduction, felling — you need written consent from your local planning authority. Applications are free and the authority has eight weeks to decide.

Read our guide on how to apply for consent for the full process.

My neighbour's TPO tree is causing problems

If a neighbour's protected tree is encroaching on your property, you have limited options. You can normally cut back branches to your boundary line under common law — but if the tree has a TPO, the safe approach is to get consent from the planning authority before doing any work, even on branches overhanging your land.

Start by talking to your neighbour. If the tree is genuinely dangerous or causing structural damage, the planning authority is more likely to grant consent for work. Get an arboricultural report to support your case.

TPOs and home insurance

Standard home insurance does not usually exclude TPO trees specifically. But if a protected tree causes damage (subsidence, storm damage to your roof), the insurer may want evidence that you maintained it properly. Keep records of any maintenance work and consent applications.

If a TPO tree falls in a storm, the exemption for removing dangerous trees applies — you can make the area safe immediately, then notify the planning authority as soon as practicable afterwards.