Overgrown and untidy gardens

Steps you can take if you live near or are concerned about an untidy garden.

In most cases, there is no action we can take about an overgrown garden.

Someone keeping wood or building materials, for example, is unlikely to be a cause of nuisance.

If you believe that your neighbour’s home is a council property managed by Solihull Community Housing, please contact them about your concerns.

The property is empty

You can tell us about an empty home.

What you can do

The easiest and most convenient approach is to speak to your neighbour.

If you have spoken with neighbour and the problem has not improved, there are laws on what you can do:

  • You cannot trespass onto a neighbour’s garden
  • If branches or roots from a nearby garden are on your land, you can cut them back up to your property boundary
  • Any trimmings from overhanging branches or roots cannot be thrown back into your neighbour’s garden without their agreement
  • There is a limit on what you can cut back if your neighbours tree has a tree preservation order or live in a conservation area

What we can do

We will only investigate an overgrown garden if:

  • you have seen rats at the property - if you have photos of the rats, this will help our investigation
  • there are items, such as food waste, that’s likely to attract rats
  • your property is at risk of damage

If one of the above applies, please call us on 0121 704 8000.

I'm concerned about my neighbour

An untidy house or garden can be a sign that someone needs help.

You should contact us on 0121 704 8007 if you have any concerns.