There are a number of palms over three metres high which were planted on my lot originally, now crossing the boundary line because of the size of them. My strata says it is my responsibility to remove the palms. Would you be able to clarify this for me? – Sandra, NSW

Q: Hi, both myself together with two other lots would like to replace the old fence.

There are a number of palms over three metres high which were planted on my lot originally, now crossing the boundary line because of the size of them. My strata says it is my responsibility to remove the palms, however I was advised by someone who works for a strata company, that because they are original palms, over 3m high, and crossing the boundary, then it is the responsibility of the strata company to pay for the removal of the tress.

Would you be able to clarify this for me. Thank you and regards.

A: In this situation usually this would fall onto your responsibility as the lot owner given the tree is planted on your lot or property. Perhaps have a look at the by-laws or strata plan to see if anything is mentioned regarding the tree – if there’s any reference to it being considered as common property, you may have a way out of this.