We here at Adrian Hassett Auctioneers often see buyers fall for a property the moment they glimpse a magnificent beech, oak or sycamore standing proudly in the garden. Mature trees bring character, privacy and a sense of permanence that no newly planted garden can match. Yet the same tree that adds so much charm can also bring hidden risks, costs and legal responsibilities. So are mature trees an asset or a liability? The honest answer is that it depends, and knowing what to look for can help you decide.
The case for mature trees
There is no shortcut to a mature tree. It takes decades to grow, and that is precisely why buyers value it. Large trees soften the look of a property, frame the house beautifully and give an established feel to the garden. They provide privacy from neighbours and passing traffic, offer welcome shade in summer and can help screen noise. They also attract birds and wildlife, bringing the garden to life throughout the year. For many buyers, particularly families and those moving from apartments, a garden with mature trees is a major part of a home's appeal.
When trees become a liability
Problems usually arise when a tree is too large, too close to the house or in poor condition. On certain soils, particularly shrinkable clay, thirsty trees can draw moisture from the ground and contribute to movement in foundations. While serious subsidence is less common in Ireland than in some other countries, it is not unheard of. Roots can also damage drains, lift paths and driveways and crack garden walls.
Large trees can block natural light, leaving rooms and gardens dark and damp, and falling leaves can clog gutters every autumn. Storm damage is a real concern too, as Storm Éowyn in January 2025 demonstrated when it brought down trees across the country. Ash dieback, a disease now widespread in Ireland, is another factor to consider, as infected ash trees can become brittle and dangerous over time.
What to check at a viewing
Walk the garden and take a close look at any large trees. Note their species, size and distance from the house, outbuildings and boundaries. As a general principle, the larger the tree and the closer it is to a building, the more questions you should ask.
Look for signs of poor health, such as dead branches, large cracks or cavities in the trunk, fungi growing at the base, a sparse or thinning canopy or a noticeable lean. Then look for signs that roots may be causing problems: cracks in walls or render, lifted paving, sticking doors and windows or recurring drain blockages. Check whether trees are within the property or on a neighbour's land, and whether branches overhang roofs, gutters or boundaries.
Understand the legal restrictions
Owning a tree does not always mean you can do what you like with it. Planning authorities can make Tree Preservation Orders to protect individual trees or groups of trees, and work on a protected tree without consent can lead to penalties. Ask your solicitor to check whether any trees on the property are protected, and whether the property lies within an Architectural Conservation Area.
Felling is also regulated. Under the Forestry Act 2014, a felling licence from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is required unless an exemption applies, and felling without one where no exemption applies is an offence. Common exemptions include trees in urban areas and trees within 30 metres of a building, other than a wall or temporary structure, although this does not cover buildings built after the trees were planted. These exemptions do not apply in all circumstances, for example where a tree stands within the curtilage of a protected structure.
Importantly, these exemptions do not remove restrictions under planning legislation or the Wildlife Acts, including section 40 of the Wildlife Act 1976, which restricts cutting hedgerows and vegetation during the bird nesting season from 1 March to 31 August. Mature trees may also host roosting bats, which are protected, so always get advice before carrying out major work.
Get professional advice
If a large tree is close to the house or appears to be in poor condition, ask your surveyor to comment on it and consider commissioning a report from a qualified arborist. They can assess the tree's health, its likely impact on the building and what management it may need, along with an idea of costs. Check too that your home insurance covers storm damage and subsidence. As the owner, you are generally responsible for maintaining your trees, and a neglected tree that falls onto a neighbour's property or a public road could leave you facing a claim.
Tips for sellers
If your property has mature trees, make them work in your favour. Have them pruned and assessed by a qualified tree surgeon before you go to market, and keep any reports to show buyers. Deal with dead or dangerous branches, clear gutters and tidy fallen leaves before viewings. Then highlight the trees as a feature in your listing, as a mature, well-maintained garden is a genuine selling point.
The bottom line
Mature trees can be a wonderful asset when they are healthy, well positioned and properly maintained. They become a liability when they are neglected, diseased or too close to the house. By checking carefully, understanding the rules and taking expert advice where needed, you can enjoy everything a mature garden offers with complete peace of mind.
If you would like to discuss buying or selling a property, contact us on 0871303206 or email sales@adrianhassett.com or visit adrianhassett.com.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for general guidance only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, details may change and errors may occur. This content does not constitute financial, legal or professional advice. Readers should seek appropriate professional guidance before making decisions. Neither the publisher nor the authors accept liability for any loss arising from reliance on this material.
