Copper beech roots

[swanbird]

We have a well established copper beech ( around 7 m in height ) which is approxiamately 3 m away from our garden wall which is a retaining wall holding up about 6 feet of garden running down a lane at the side of our house. There seems to be no damage to the wall at present but we are worried that there may be in the future. I have tried to find out about beech root systems but I am struggling to find useful information about depth, spread and any potential future damage. Any ideas anyone? Thanks.

[digger]

I am led to believe that beech trees allowed to grow will have a shallow root system but the roots spread can be as much as twice the size of the tree canopy.

[swanbird]

Thanks Digger. Do you think I need to take action or leave the tree and keep an eye on things. Any damage to the retaining wall could result in thousands needing to be spent and a considerable portion of our garden disappearing into the lane if the wall should collapse.:eek:

[digger]

If the retaining wall is looking okay i wouldn't worry too much, for future peace of mind though it may do to check your insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for the tree, I am told that some insurance companies are not happy if large trees are not at least 40 metres away from the dwelling, we have a similar tree in the street but its the responsibility of the council who own the road, i would read your insurance policy if you contact the insurance company and be specific there is every chance they will say ooh your are not covered, but if you call them and say what happens if a tree causes subsidence or falls down, but don't say that you own a big tree unless they ask you. I am sure that is the best course of action because i have had a similar problem on some land i have down the road.