Home Insurance And Creeping Plants.
A house in Chelmsford, Essex, recently made headlines when it sold despite being totally covered in ivy.
The three bedroomed detached house even had ivy growing inside it as the creeping plant had penetrated the walls. It was left without power, and the windows were covered, making it impossible to let daylight in.
Its former owner had left the creeping plant to grow for 20 years before it received its much-needed “haircut” from a new buyer. Although this case is extreme, it does highlight the importance of keeping any creeping or climbing plants under control.
If creeping plants are left to grow out of control, they can cause cracks in the walls which can leave them vulnerable to frost damage. Your Home Insurance policy will usually state that you’re responsible for keeping exterior walls in good condition so that frost damage doesn’t occur.
Here are some tips to keep your creeping plants well maintained.
Some plants will grow of their own accord, whereas others will need tying to the wall. If you don’t want the hassle of tying them in, choose ivy or Virginia creepers, which don’t need support. A clematis, on the other hand, will benefit from some support.
If you opt for ivy plants, plant them away from direct sunlight and make sure the soil is always moist. Plant them on the shady side of your house if you can.
Prune regularly, getting rid of any leaves that have turned brown or yellow. If your creeping plants are young, move them indoors in cold and frosty weather.
Cut back your creepers regularly, and don’t allow them to get out of control as they can work their way in between roof tiles, take hold on bricks and ruin flashing.
Never allow a climbing plant to grow in your roof or gutters as not only can it cause damage, but can help mice and rats enter the property by acting as a climbing frame for them. If the plant makes holes, flies and wasps can easily get in.
If you’re thinking about buying a house that’s covered in a creeping plant, take notice of what the survey says as this can highlight any problems or pitfalls.
