Neighbours Dead Willow Tree Overhanging my garden

[MBirch]

My neighbour has a couple of Willow Trees which over hang my garden. One of them has been dead for a number of years and large branches (10ft) are now falling off into my garden. I would like the tree to be cut down as I fear it may fall and damage my property. Can I force my neighbour to do cut down the tree and if so how?

[woodchopper]

Have you tried asking them first ?

[HaventAClue]

I agree, speak to them first but you should be aware that in removing a large tree, particulalry something like a willow tree you might cause problems to the structure of the soil which may impact your foundations. I'm no expert (as the nickname suggests) but its something which has been mentioned to us as we're suffering from subsidence.
Don't hack it down yourself,or let your neighbours do it without consulting an expert - possibly even a structural engineer as well as obviously a tree surgeon.
If you're neighbours aren't been helpful then I would have thought you could contact the local council (Environmental Health Dept?) if you could prove there was a very real risk to you/your property.

[heathfield]

Your local council will have an official 'tree man' who will make an inspection and advise what should be done, and maybe even compel your neighbours to do something about it.

[maviscoull]

i could be wrong, but im sure you are allowed to cut back the tree yourself if it is hanging over into your garden. im also sure that you have to offer the cuttings back to the owner.

[alan30]

If the tree has been dead for a number of years removing it will have no effect on soils or foundations. Some councils may allow their tree officer to comment but most do not as it is a private situation. You need to tell the neighbour your concerns and put them in writing. If there is potential to damage your property you should inform your insurers and they may take action on your behal. You may get your local authority to take action under the Local Government Miscellaneous Provisions Act but most don't.