Quick Answer
Yes, you can legally sell a house with Japanese knotweed — as long as you disclose its presence to potential buyers through the TA6 Property Information Form. Failure to do so can result in misrepresentation claims.
What the Law Says
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Property Misrepresentation Act 1991: You must provide accurate information when selling your property.
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Case Study (2019): A seller in London was ordered to pay £200,000 in damages after failing to disclose knotweed growth to buyers (Source: The Independent).
Selling a House with Knotweed: Step-by-Step
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Get a professional survey from a PCA-registered contractor.
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Disclose the presence of knotweed honestly on the TA6 form.
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Provide a treatment plan & insurance-backed guarantee to reassure buyers and lenders.
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Work with solicitors familiar with knotweed-related property transactions.
FAQ
Q: Will mortgage lenders refuse my property if it has knotweed?
A: Not necessarily. Most lenders will accept applications if you can show a professional treatment plan with a guarantee.
Q: Can I remove knotweed myself before selling?
A: DIY removal is risky and often ineffective. Professional treatment ensures compliance and gives you paperwork for buyers.
Table: Seller Options & Outcomes
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Disclose & Treat | Builds trust, enables mortgage approval | Costs £1,500–£5,000+ |
| Hide Knotweed | Risk of legal action, property value loss | Could cost £100k+ in damages |
| Ignore | Property is harder to sell | May attract cash-only buyers |
About the Author
Written by Lee Roberts, PCA-certified knotweed surveyor with 15 years’ experience in invasive species management and property compliance across Wales and the UK.