The knotty facts: How One Plant Costs the UK Billions
It’s fast, relentless, and can quietly devastate your property without you even realising it’s there. Japanese knotweed might look like just another leafy nuisance – but its impact on UK homes, land, and the economy is staggering. As spring awakens the countryside, this invasive plant is already on the move – and homeowners, property managers and construction projects need to be ready.
The Scope of the Problem
It’s closer than you think.
- Roughly 5% of UK homes are affected by Japanese knotweed – either directly or by having it on a neighbouring property.
- In a national study of 3,893 equal land squares, 3,134 were found to contain knotweed.
- Even if it’s not on your land, if knotweed is within 7 metres of your property, it should be flagged as a risk during surveys or mortgage applications.
Think you’re safe because it’s “just next door”? Think again.
The Financial Fallout
One plant. £Thousands off your home.
- Japanese knotweed can knock 5-10% off property value, even when treated.
- Severe cases can make properties unmortgageable unless professionally managed with an insurance-backed plan.
- The UK economy loses an estimated £1.7 billion each year due to structural damage, legal disputes, biodiversity loss, and treatment costs.
It’s not just a plant – it’s a liability.
Nature’s Little Menace
It’s not just growing – it’s charging.
- In spring and summer, knotweed can grow up to 10cm a day.
- Mature stands can reach up to 3 metres tall by peak summer.
- It’s strong enough to break through concrete, tarmac, drains and building foundations.
What You Can Do About It
Awareness is your first line of defence.
- If you spot it, act immediately. Leaving it can make things worse.
- Avoid DIY solutions – cutting or digging often helps it spread. Read more on this here.
- Work with professional specialists who offer treatment plans backed by long-term guarantees.
Why Spring Is Critical
Spring is when Japanese knotweed emerges from dormancy. It’s the best time to spot it, start treatment, and prevent it from taking hold. If ignored, it becomes more expensive and more destructive with each passing season.
Don’t wait for the damage – stop it before it starts.
Need help identifying or treating knotweed on your land? Our expert team will correctly identify the plant, and we offer free surveys, tailored treatment plans, and insurance-backed guarantees to ensure your knotweed problem is quickly resolved.
Get in touch with the team today to book your spring assessment.