As Scotland gets battered by high winds it is prudent to remind you that the Courts are awarding substantial damages due to accidents concerning falling trees and branches. The Courts recognise that property owners have a Duty of Care to the general public regarding health and safety.
In a court case reported in by the BBC (27/7/11), a two tonne branch fell on a group of school kids out enjoying a day trip to National Trust's Felbrigg Hall in Norfolk. Sadly one 11 year old boy died while several others were injured. The 180 year old Beech tree should have been labelled 'high risk' according to QC Jonathan Watt-Pringle, representative for the familes. The London's High Court Judge rejected the claim that the Trust's tree inspectors failed to exercise reasonable care in their task. However, it will now ask the Trust to do more than what is reasonable in the future to ensure the safety of visitors.

So what does this case mean to people with trees in their garden and how can you prevent accidents?

Follow these simple steps to reduce your risk:

1. Always check your trees after a storm or high winds.
2. Look for branches that have snapped or partly torn.
3. Call us on 07875321427 if it is an emergency (no call out charge) and the tree needs urgent attention.
4. Ask us to undertake regular visits to ensure the safety of your property.

Regards