Man Hilariously Trolls Neighbor Who Wants Tree That Straddles Over Their Property Removed

by Damjan

Moving into a new house brings with it an array of exciting prospects: a fresh start, new surroundings, and the opportunity to meet new people. Among these new faces are often the neighbors, the people with whom we share our immediate surroundings.

Our interactions with them can significantly influence the quality of our living experience, although these interactions can occasionally present challenges. The nature of these relationships is greatly influenced by mutual respect, communication, and understanding.

This is a story of such an interaction. When our protagonist, OP, relocated to their residence in May of 2020, they were greeted by an unexpected request from their neighbors.

On the very day OP moved into the house, the neighbors approached, presenting an unusual request. They desired the removal of a tree situated between their homes.

Even though the tree wasn't particularly hazardous, it had a slight lean toward the neighbor's garage, leading to a buildup of moss on their roof. Despite being a first-time homeowner, OP took it upon themselves to uphold the cordial relationship between neighbors.

Acting out of good faith, OP brought in an arborist and spent a hefty sum of $1,000 to have the tree removed. They even went an extra mile by power washing the neighbor's moss-laden roof, a deed inspired by the fact that their neighbors were of older age, and OP felt an empathetic urge to assist.

Fast forward to the spring of 2021, and the same neighbors returned with a similar request.

OP asks:

OP moved into a new house

The neighbors didn't like the response:

The first letter:

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The response:

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Suggestions for protection:

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This time, another tree was the subject of their displeasure, as it was leaning over and dropping leaves onto their pristine, newly built deck. Faced with a strained financial situation at that time, OP proposed a compromise: to share the costs of the tree's removal.

However, the neighbors were reluctant, expressing that the tree was not their responsibility. In response, OP gently reminded them of the property boundaries, stating that while they didn't intend to remove the tree at that moment, the neighbors were free to trim any overhanging branches.

Unfortunately, this suggestion did not go down well with the neighbors, leading to a chain of events that included an arborist friend, a potential bias report, and an ensuing conflict with code enforcement.

The final verdict is:

Sounds like OP was entirely reasonable

OP was under no legal (or moral) obligation to do anything

OP already paid $1000 to remove a previously harmless tree

Staying firm, OP consulted a separate, unbiased arborist who provided a clear report stating the tree was not a looming danger. Equipped with this new information, OP crafted a reply to their neighbors alongside the impartial arborist's report.

However, OP is now questioning their approach because of the slightly cheeky undertone in their letter. Could they have adopted a more professional demeanor?

Perhaps. But under the circumstances, they found it difficult to resist a dash of humor. This story serves as a reflection on the complexities of neighborly relationships and the challenges faced when navigating the sometimes tricky path of cohabitation.

After all, even with the best intentions, sometimes maintaining peace and harmony can be a bit of an uphill task.