Neighbours Conifers

[fluffchucker]

Hi to all.
This is my 1st time posting on the forum, my problem is my neighbours moved in approx 15 years ago, then about 5 years ago they planted a group of conifers in a small space of about 2 meters diameter very close to the border fence which is waney lap about 4 feet high. Over the last 2-3 years the conifers have taken on a growth spout and the tallest is approx 4 meters tall and is pushing the fence, the fence is my responsibility and is maintained.
My question is are the conifers to close to my house ? the nearest being approx 2 meters from my patio windows and the dining room, is there anything in law which can get them to control the trees or any other action that could be taken. I have not confronted them about this issue yet as I would like to know where I stand re the situation before any confrontation.

[bednobs]

there is no need to "confront" them at all - just chat to them!

[cathfromsaron]

does it encroach on your light and or access?

why not just bring them round and show them ...

[Uriah Heep]

I agree with the first two replies. That course of action worked for me. Two metres is far too close.

[albaqwerty]

I read/heard somewhere that whatever the height of the tree the roots are twice the length of the height.
Don't confront them, invite them in for a cuppa and calmly and politely express your concerns about possible damage to both properties.

[The Builder]

Fluff, I would definitely have a friendly chat with them. Bring the damage to your fence to their attention first. It's the one tangible piece of evidence that is obvious.
Then you can mention your worries about further damage, this time to the house. Conifer roots, although wide-ranging, are quite shallow. It's very inlikely that they would grow under the foundations. The main problem is the amount of water they suck out of the ground. This could affect the stability of the ground the foundations stand on.
This would also affect anything that you try to grow in the area.

More immediate concern is the possibility of roots growing into drains. That's quite common.
If they're not willing to remove the trees, then one thing you could do is to have a trench dug, and create a root barrier on your side.