We were recently appointed to carry out the removal of a Birch tree and a mixed-species hedge at a property in Great Sankey, Warrington, as part of a subsidence-related insurance claim.
The vegetation had been identified by a chartered arboricultural consultant as the likely cause of soil desiccation, which in turn had led to ground movement and cracking in the property’s structure. Our works formed part of the insurer’s agreed remedial action.
The Background
Following an investigation into subsidence-related damage, the property’s insurer commissioned a site survey. The report concluded that:
A mature Birch tree in close proximity to the building
Along with a dense, mixed-species hedge running along the boundary
… were contributing to excessive moisture loss in the underlying clay soil. To stop further movement and allow monitoring of the site, both the tree and hedge needed to be removed.
Scope of Work
The client’s brief — based on the insurer’s recommendations — was to:
Remove the Birch tree to ground level
Remove the entire hedge, including all stumps where possible
Leave the site clean and clear for follow-up monitoring and potential structural repair work
Provide photographic documentation for the insurer
On the Day
Our team arrived on site and carried out a site-specific risk assessment before setting up.
Team Leader Henry mounted a GoPro and recorded a time-lapse video of the entire removal, capturing the safe, controlled process from start to finish — a great record for both the client and our portfolio.
The removal was carried out as follows:
The Birch tree was dismantled in sections, using rope access and rigging to avoid damage to surrounding property
All timber and brash were processed and removed from site
The mixed hedge was cut back and removed in full, including digging out and grinding back larger stumps where required
Waste was responsibly disposed of at a registered green waste facility
Outcome
✅ The Birch tree and hedge were safely removed
✅ No damage to adjacent structures or garden features
✅ The area was left tidy, ready for follow-on inspection and repairs
✅ The time-lapse footage provided a unique insight into the care and professionalism of the team
The client and insurer were pleased with the results, particularly the tidy finish and minimal disruption to the garden space.
Working with Insurers on Subsidence Claims
At Woodfelder Tree Care, we regularly work with:
Insurance companies and loss adjusters
Surveyors and arboricultural consultants
Homeowners dealing with tree-related structural issues
We provide:
Safe, careful removals of trees and vegetation linked to subsidence
Full RAMS and documentation
Stump removal, waste clearance and photographic evidence
A professional, respectful service on site
If you’ve been advised to remove a tree or hedge as part of an insurance claim, get in touch. We’ll provide a no-obligation quote and liaise directly with your insurer if needed.