Introduction

Introduction

Vegetation on the property includes all plant materials such as trees, shrubs, grass, and other ground covers. Vegetation is usually in scope of a home inspection only insofar as it may affect the house. Issues such as vegetation condition and the appropriateness of the plant for its location are out of scope. For example, a dead tree that could fall on the house is usually a reportable condition. A shrub that might grow too large for the space where it’s planted is usually not a reportable condition.

Plants should be selected and planted so that when the plant is fully grown there is adequate distance between the branches and leaves of the plant and the wall coverings and roof of the house. Plants that touch wall coverings and the roof can physically damage these components, and can retain moisture against these components. Damage and moisture can cause the wall coverings and the roof to deteriorate, and can create conditions for fungal growth. Vines should not be allowed to grow on wall coverings, especially wood wall coverings, for the same reasons. Vines that grow on trellises near the house may be acceptable if the trellises are far enough from the wall coverings.

Trees should be selected and planted so that when the tree is fully grown the limbs and roots will not cause damage. Tree roots can extend at least as far as the tree canopy when the tree is fully grown. Tree limbs can physically damage the wall coverings and roof coverings and can drop debris that can block gutters and hasten deterioration of roof coverings. Tree limbs and entire trees can fall during high wind, heavy snow, and ice storms. Tree roots can damage the foundation and can also damage underground plumbing, such as the building sewer pipe and the septic system drainage field. Tree roots can, and often do, uplift and damage solid horizontal surfaces such as walkways, driveways, and patios (especially those constructed of materials such as pavers). This uplift can cause significant trip and fall hazards.

Consideration should also be given to the location of overhead wires, such as the electricity service drop, telephone, and broadband cable, when selecting and planting trees. Tree limbs can damage these wires and utility companies may prune trees that could damage their wires. Utility contractor pruning can severely damage the tree, and may eventually kill the tree.

Plants, especially turf grasses and foundation plants, should not be planted where water from irrigation systems will be necessary to maintain the plants. Water from spray irrigation heads can direct water toward wall coverings and cause damage. Excess plant watering and irrigation system leaks can direct water toward the foundation and can cause problems as discussed in Grade and Drainage. The best strategy is often to plant nothing near the foundation or to plant drought-tolerant native plants that do not require watering.

Trees are sometimes supported by metal guy wires when they are new or are damaged. Support wires can cause injury if someone runs into them. Metal guy wires should be avoided or at least clearly marked so accidental contact is less likely, especially in the dark.

Plants and plant litter that are too near the house can be a fire danger in areas that are prone to wildfires. Defensible space of up to 100 feet around the home is recommended, and may be required, in wildfire areas.

Plants that provide shade for HVAC condensers can improve the efficiency of the condenser, but plants should not be located so close that the plant interferes with air circulation around the condenser. Clearance between a condenser and plants is based on the condenser manufacturer’s instructions. At least 1 foot around the sides is a typical guideline.