Disclosure obligations
The Law Society’s TA6 property information form includes a specific question about Japanese knotweed. Sellers are legally required to answer accurately. Failure to disclose known knotweed may give rise to a misrepresentation claim after completion.
Mortgage implications
Mortgage lenders vary considerably in their approach. Some will lend without conditions where knotweed is not within a specified distance of habitable buildings. Others require a management plan or evidence of ongoing treatment. The specific requirements of any given lender are set by their valuer and we cannot predict or guarantee acceptance of any particular report.
What helps
A professional survey report confirming the presence, extent and risk category, accompanied by a documented management plan, is generally the most effective approach to addressing lender concerns.