Trees Blocking Light to Garden
Large trees casting heavy shade over the garden, house, or neighbouring properties, reducing natural light.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Trees planted too close to the house growing to full size
- 2Deciduous trees with dense canopy not pruned for years
- 3Self-seeded trees growing unchecked in borders
How Urgent Is This?
This is a cosmetic issue. It is not causing damage and can be addressed in your own time.
What Needs to Be Done
A gardener or tree surgeon will crown-thin the tree to let more light through, crown-lift lower branches, or recommend removal if appropriate and not protected by a TPO.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £68 – £225 | Materials: £5 – £55
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Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
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Ask a QuestionPlanning Permission Guidance
Some fixes for this problem may require planning permission or building regulations approval. Check if your project needs permission:
Generally permitted. Laying a patio or hard surface in the rear garden is permitted development as an improvement within...
DeckingGenerally permitted under Part 1, Class E of the GPDO (treated as an improvement within the curtilage). Decking that doe...
GreenhouseGenerally permitted under Part 1, Class E as an outbuilding for purposes incidental to the enjoyment of the dwelling. Th...
How to Prevent This
Choose trees suited to the space when planting. Have trees crown-thinned every 3 to 5 years. Check whether a tree preservation order applies before any work.
Related Problems
A hedge that has grown too tall, too wide, or too dense, encroaching on paths, driveways, or neighbouring properties.
A large tree significantly reducing natural light to rooms, the garden, or solar panels.
Dead or dying branches hanging over the roof, driveway, or garden, posing a risk of falling.
Other Gardener Problems
Patches or whole areas of lawn turning yellow or brown, even when it has been watered.
A hedge that has grown too tall, too wide, or too dense, encroaching on paths, driveways, or neighbouring properties.
Persistent weeds spreading through flower beds, paths, and the lawn, crowding out desirable plants.
Thick moss spreading across the lawn, crowding out the grass and creating a spongy surface.