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Realtor Guide


BUYING OR SELLING A HOME  -  
DID YOU INSPECT THE TREES?

When marketing a home, most sellers will either disclose any known issues up front, or take care of repairs around the house to get the most value out of their home. One area that is often overlooked with a home inspection is the landscaping on the property, in particular, the trees on the property.

The health and proximity of the trees to the house is an important feature not to be overlooked. Any remedial maintenance efforts, after the sale of home, could be costly and potentially dangerous if there are diseased or dead trees on the property.

A good example of this would be standing dead or dying trees that have either Emerald Ash Borer or Dutch Elm Disease. Removal of these trees may involve a significant investment to keep the property safe. Also at certain times of the year, identifying these trees may be very difficult to see and identified by an untrained eye. Both Emerald Ash Borer and Dutch Elm Disease are well established in Lake County and are likely present in most neighborhoods being considered.

A careful inspection of the landscaping on a property can help you sell your home or help avert any unexpected future costs. The City recommends contacting a Certified Arborist to assess the trees and identify any potential concerns on the property.

As the removal of trees is regulated by Highland Park city code, please contact Forestry at 847.432.0807 if you have any questions regarding tree preservation or removal.