Tree roots growing into the house

Hello renovation experts,

I found tree roots inside the house in the bedroom and toilet coming from external walls. Looks like they come from the trees outside the house. What is the best way to fix it? It wasn’t noticeable but now just grew quickly recently. This is very concerning. Any suggestions are appreciated.

 

Cut the trees down.

 

Thanks. The complication is it seems to be neighbors tree.

 

Anything that is on your side of the boundary you can dispose of.

 

others have highlighted here - key is to remove the source of the tree roots. You should also be aware that the roots look for water. It might be worthwhile having the plumbing/sewer line inspected for leaks

 

I'd be concerned with photo 2 - why are the windows boarded up?

As for the other ones, the roots have gotten around the DPC and the step in the slab which I would be very concerned about as well.

Sounds like you need to have a chat to the neighbours to eliminate what looks to be some ficus (fig varieties) and unbrella trees to stop the roots from seeking your moisture. Moisture appears to be getting into the property already as per photo 1 - tracking in along the roots.

 

I would also be concerned about the damp problem.

That first picture is showing mold on the carpet which will means the frame and gyprock will also be damp.

May need to consider extra drainage along the side of the house as well as eliminating the roots.

 

You’ve probably got a broken pipe. Maybe under a bath. I can’t remember if you use Round up or Blackberry Tree killer on the roots.

Can dig a metre deep trench to cut roots on boundary.

 

Second photo is the floor area of built in wardrobe.

 

Can someone recommend a good plumber in Brisbane southern suburb? Thanks!

 

Make sure it’s a plumber who specialises in leak detection.

 

It turned out the concrete floor of outside lane slopes down towards the house. Rain water flowing towards the house coming through wall causing the room to get wet, and water created gap letting tree roots come in. It's not a plumber issue.

Does anyone know what can be done to maybe change the slope of the outdoor floor? What type of worker should I look for?

 

Yes that's the concrete path. Is it possible to lay new concrete just on top to change the slope?

 

Looks like a fungal growth rather than tree roots. Is there a step up from the external paving in to the house?

Tools

 

I think it's the same level both in the house and the outside concrete floor. I don't know how to tell exactly though.

 

Imagine if you just let it all grow. Your property would become a tree house sitting 6 metres in the air.