Dear Abby: Pay Neighbors to Remove Tree for Solar Panels? Home Renovation Advice (2025)

A friendly neighborhood dilemma: a tree that's both a blessing and a curse. Should you approach your neighbors about removing it?

Last year, Upgrading in North Carolina embarked on a home renovation project, with a south-facing roof in mind for solar panels. An incentive program from their utility company could lower the cost, but there's a catch: time is running out.

The obstacle? A tall, cracked tree belonging to their next-door neighbors. This tree has been shedding branches for years, causing damage to the previous homeowners' windows and gutter. With a young family now living next door, the potential danger to their little one is a concern.

Upgrading wants to maintain a friendly relationship while progressing with their project. But here's where it gets tricky: approaching neighbors about their property can be a delicate matter. People often have strong feelings about their homes and gardens.

However, with a cordial relationship already established, Upgrading could gently bring up the issue. They could mention the previous damage and the potential risk to the family, then offer to cover the cost of tree removal. It's a generous proposal that might just be music to their neighbors' ears.

So, what do you think? Is this a friendly solution, or might it cause more harm than good? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Dear Abby: Pay Neighbors to Remove Tree for Solar Panels? Home Renovation Advice (2025)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Catherine Tremblay

Last Updated:

Views: 5461

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (67 voted)

Reviews: 90% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Catherine Tremblay

Birthday: 1999-09-23

Address: Suite 461 73643 Sherril Loaf, Dickinsonland, AZ 47941-2379

Phone: +2678139151039

Job: International Administration Supervisor

Hobby: Dowsing, Snowboarding, Rowing, Beekeeping, Calligraphy, Shooting, Air sports

Introduction: My name is Catherine Tremblay, I am a precious, perfect, tasty, enthusiastic, inexpensive, vast, kind person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.