To report a damaged tree or one needing maintenance, please submit a log it / fix it form. Our team will conduct an inspection.

Submit Log It / Fix It Form

 

Damage Relating to Tree or Branch Failure

Trees can be affected by their environment. They may fail, especially in severe weather. The causes of such failures aren't always clear. They might involve factors like soil saturation or prior construction.

If a tree fails and damages your property, we advise contacting your insurance provider, regardless of the tree's location.

Note that the Council is unlikely to be liable for compensation in cases involving:

• Natural shedding: trees shed leaves, branches, and debris as part of their life cycle, which is beyond our control.

• ​Weather-induced damage: we cannot be held responsible for damage caused by uncontrollable weather events.

• Dealing with Tree-Related Incidents

  In case of storm-induced tree damage, please reach out to the State Emergency Services at 132 500 for immediate assistance.

  It's important to understand that the Council generally isn't held responsible for:

  • Natural tree processes: Trees naturally shed branches and leaves, which is beyond our control.

  • Extreme weather events: We can't be held liable for damage caused by unpredictable severe weather.

  If your property is damaged by a fallen tree or branch, we recommend contacting your insurance provider first, regardless of where the tree was located.

  Should you believe the Council is responsible and wish to pursue a claim, you'll need to submit a formal Injury or Damage Compensation Claim Form.
  
  Submit an Injury / Damage Compensation Claim Form
  
  This form should be accompanied by supporting evidence to substantiate your claim; for example, you may be required to produce documents such as:

  1. Clear photographs of the reported damage. Including evidence of root ingress, this will require an excavation to be undertaken at the site of the damage to expose the location of the tree roots.

  2. Professional reports from relevant specialists such as AQF5 qualified arborists, licenced plumbers, structural engineers and/or other pertinent experts. These reports will need to provide details of damage as well as evidence of cause, "statements of proximity of a tree therefore damage" are not suitable as evidence of cause. 

  3. Any other documentation that helps establish a direct connection between our trees and the reported issue.

  These reports should explicitly link our trees to the damage you are claiming. Before taking any action, submit your claim with all supporting evidence. Avoid repairing damage or altering trees related to your claim until our assessment is complete. This approach ensures an accurate evaluation of your situation.

• Damage to Sewer or Stormwater Lines by Tree Roots

  Tree root intrusion into sewer or stormwater lines is a complex issue. Research indicates that healthy, intact pipes are generally resistant to root penetration. However, even minor cracks or porous areas can allow nutrients to seep into the surrounding soil, attracting tree roots.
  
  It's important to note that property owners are responsible for the upkeep and replacement of sewer and stormwater lines on their property. Given the nature of root growth and pipe maintenance, the Council is unlikely to accept liability for damages caused by tree roots to these systems.
  
  We encourage property owners to:

  1. Regularly inspect and maintain their pipe systems.

  2. Address any minor issues promptly to prevent more significant problems.

  3. Consult with professionals if you suspect root intrusion.

  By understanding these factors, we hope to foster a collaborative approach to managing our urban forest while maintaining essential infrastructure.
  
  Should you wish to claim compensation from Georges River Council, please submit the following form.
  
  Submit an Injury / Damage Compensation Claim Form

• Damage to Structures

  Structures are defined as approved constructions on private property. For claims alleging tree damage to structures, you will need to provide:

  1. Professional assessment: hire an expert (like an arborist or engineer). They can investigate your property through localised excavation. Council does not carry out investigations on private land. Please expose the roots with precision to avoid damaging them.

  2. Required evidence:

     • Recent aerial photo or sketch of the property, depicting structures and vegetation.

     • Detailed root measurements and characteristics (diameter, direction, type, alive or dead, distance to tree/s etc).

     • Clear photos showing root-structure interaction to structures, with direction and scale. Use background structures or known-size objects for scale.

     • Comprehensive professional reports addressing:

       • Inspection details and methods.

       • Structural integrity and construction standards.

       • All potential contributing factors.

       • Direct evidence of root interaction with the structure.

       • Justification if tree removal is proposed.

  Provide thorough documentation to support your claim. This information is crucial for a fair and accurate assessment.
  
  Should you wish to claim compensation from Georges River Council, please submit the following form.
  
  Submit an Injury / Damage Compensation Claim Form