The London Tree Officers Association (LTOA) has announced the launch of the revised Guide to Risk Management Strategies for Tree Root Claims.
The main purpose of this document is to provide up-to-date guidance to reduce incidences of tree related subsidence to properties and reduce the financial risk to local authorities whilst retaining trees where their removal is not justified.
The focus of the latest edition is advice and guidance on:
- Changes in the legal position due to cases that have come before the courts since the last revision
- Assessment of historical claims to establish the risk of tree related subsidence occurring within geographical areas
- Devising targeted maintenance regimes to make the best use of resources and create a logical and defensible approach to limiting the risk of tree related subsidence damage
Dale Mortimer, the new LTOA chair said:
“Following another record-breaking hot summer, the challenge for local authorities to manage tree-related subsidence claims while preserving urban trees has never been greater. This new strategy provides essential guidance—helping members identify high-risk areas, manage trees through regular pruning, and handle claims using evidence-based protocols.
In a future that will undoubtedly bring even hotter summers, this document helps strike the right balance between reducing building damage and preserving the benefits of living in a cooler, greener urban environment.”
To download the guidance document for free, please visit the LTOA website.
For more information please contact Becky Porter, Executive Officer on 07771 976238 or email executive.officer@ltoa.org.uk or visit www.ltoa.org.uk.
Notes for editors
The LTOA provides an information network for the exchange of views, experiences and ideas on trees and the management of London’s Urban Forest. The Association dates back to 1982 and aims to enhance the management of the capital’s trees and woodlands. It involves local authority Tree Officers in all 33 London Boroughs, an associate membership of a wide range of tree professionals and those who manage and care for trees. The LTOA is funded by London Boroughs and associate member subscriptions and is hosted by the London Borough of Camden. For more information, documents, advice and guidelines on tree care take a look at the LTOA website at www.ltoa.org.uk.
