Japanese knotweed removal laws as new alert is issued for spring 2026

Japanese knotweed removal laws as new alert is issued for spring 2026As the weather warms up, the invasive plant begins to emerge - and it can cause a lot of damage if left uncheckedCommentsLifestyleSteven Smith Content Editor10:06, 08 Apr 2026View 3 ImagesHouseholders need to be alert to it(Image: PICCOLOGEOGRAPHIC via Getty Images)Property owners are being urged to watch for Japanese knotweed, which starts appearing in spring before flowering during summer. With widespread confusion about its appearance, the invasive plant can easily remain undetected until it escalates into a more serious issue.‌Matthew Harwood, home insurance expert at Confused.com, explained: "Japanese knotweed can be tricky to spot, and it's often mistaken for plants like Himalayan balsam or giant hogweed. Our research shows that only one in four (26%) UK homeowners or renters actually know what Japanese knotweed is, yet nearly one in five (18%) say they've been affected by it.‌"But there are some key signs to look for. It typically has spade-shaped leaves with a pointed tip, and grows quickly once the weather warms up. If you do find Japanese knotweed in your garden, you don't legally have to remove it. But you do have a responsibility to stop it from spreading to neighbouring properties.‌View 3 ImagesJapanese knotweed (Image: Barry Batchelor/PA)"The longer it's left untreated, the more it can spread and the more expensive it becomes to deal with. Our research shows removal costs can reach up to £1,910 on average, so acting early and seeking professional help can save you money in the long run. Home insurance doesn't usually cover the cost of removing Japanese knotweed itself, but you may be covered for damage it causes, depending on your policy and whether you've taken steps to control it."It's important to declare it when taking out insurance, as failing to do so could risk future claims being rejected. Our guide on Japanese knotweed da...