Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – June 18, 2025
ARE TREE REMOVAL REQUESTS ACCEPTABLE IN A HOME INSPECTION?
During a home inspection, buyers often raise concerns about elements that may impact the property’s safety or value. One such concern is trees located too close to the house, which may pose risks to the structure through root intrusion, foundation damage, or falling limbs. Requesting the removal of such trees can be a reasonable part of the negotiation—particularly if there’s clear evidence that the tree threatens the home’s integrity.
However, not all trees near a home are inherently dangerous. An inspector’s professional assessment, along with an arborist’s opinion, should guide the decision. Buyers should avoid overreaching requests for cosmetic or speculative reasons, while sellers must understand the potential long-term consequences of ignoring legitimate tree-related risks.
In short, if a tree poses a clear structural threat, removal is a fair and acceptable request. It’s about balancing buyer safety with realistic seller obligations.
