Japanese knotweed has long since been recognised as a problem due to its invasive nature and ability to affect the structures of buildings. It has a growing reputation for being difficult to eradicate and is often misunderstood.
More recently the property market has felt the effects as lenders are reluctant to lend on properties contaminated by the weed. Mortgage lenders have been understandably cautious but slow to release national guidelines on how to best handle its treatment and the market is currently undecided on regulating the companies offering eradication solutions.
Many invasive weed experts are involved in helping to shape the guidelines that will give lenders the understanding and confidence they need to proceed with investing.
TCM have been involved in the early stages and have offered their advice to those who simply wish to find and asses the most secure advice and outcome, generally suggesting long experienced companies.
Japanese knotweed has many characteristics that make it more difficult to tackle than more common native weeds although it can be done quite easily with the correct knowledge and experience of most “specialists”. There are various options depending on the individual infestation and any companies with proven track records some of who have conducted extensive research into the weed will be able to achieve complete removal. We recommend to lenders and surveyors, when looking for a service that they consider the following points. How long a company has been treating Japanese knotweed? How many sites have they been involved with? How many years’ experience do the operatives have? Perhaps ask for case studies, historic references and demonstration of competencies.
Taking measures such as these should steer you on the right path. Unfortunately it is too easy for inexperienced people to set up businesses and gain accreditations with only the basics which can leave you disappointed when the Japanese knotweed returns.
