Japanese knotweed surveys
A specialist survey confirms whether knotweed is present, records its extent and sets out what needs to be done. We will put you in touch with up to three Property Care Association members who cover your area.
- Property Care Association members only
- Reports suitable for buyers, sellers and lenders
- Advice on treatment and management plans
- No charge for introductions
Request a survey
Step 1 of 3- Property
- Knotweed
- Contact details
When a specialist survey is needed
Selling. In England and Wales, the Law Society's TA6 property information form asks about Japanese knotweed, and sellers are asked to provide any survey report or management plan. See selling a property with knotweed.
Buying. If a survey or the seller's replies mention knotweed, a specialist survey shows how far it extends and what treatment will involve. See buying a property with knotweed.
Mortgage requirements. Where a surveyor places knotweed in RICS Management Category A or B, RICS expects most lenders to require an inspection by a specialist from a recognised trade body. You can check the likely category before you speak to a lender.
Neighbouring land. A survey provides an accurate record of where the knotweed is and how close it is to your boundary. See knotweed on a neighbour's land.
What a survey usually covers
The specialist will confirm whether the plant is Japanese knotweed or a related species, record where each stand is and how large it is, and recommend a course of action. If treatment is needed, they can prepare a Japanese Knotweed Management Plan, which RICS says should include a description and scaled plan of the infestation, the contractor and methods to be used, and a treatment schedule.
RICS describes stands on a simple scale, from very small (1 m² or less) to extensive (over 100 m²), while noting that visible growth is not a reliable guide to the full extent of the rhizome underground.
Why accreditation matters
Lenders and buyers' solicitors look for work carried out by members of recognised trade bodies, and RICS names the Property Care Association and the Invasive Non-Native Specialists Association. We introduce you only to PCA members, and confirm each company's membership before it receives any enquiries.
Frequently asked questions
Who should carry out a Japanese knotweed survey?
RICS guidance says further investigation should be carried out by an accredited member of a recognised trade body, and names the Property Care Association (PCA) and the Invasive Non-Native Specialists Association (INNSA). We introduce you to PCA members.
Is a homebuyer's survey enough?
A RICS home survey includes a visual inspection of the grounds, and even a careful inspection can miss knotweed that is small, cut back, dormant after treatment or out of season. Where knotweed is found or suspected, RICS surveyors will normally recommend a specialist inspection.
Can a specialist identify knotweed from a photograph?
The PCA notes that many of its contractors offer identification from photographs. A site survey is still needed to establish the extent of an infestation and recommend a plan.
How much does a knotweed survey cost?
Fees vary with the property and the scope of the report, so ask each specialist for a quotation. There is no charge for making an enquiry through us.
Sources
Tools
Photo check
Upload a photograph for an indicative assessment of whether the plant could be Japanese knotweed.
Check a photoRICS category checker
Find out which of the four RICS management categories a surveyor is likely to assign to the property.
Check the categoryCost guide
Indicative prices for treatment, excavation and root barriers, based on Property Care Association figures.
View guideline costsSpeak to an accredited specialist
Tell us about the property and up to three Property Care Association members in your area will be in touch.