In most cases, your neighbor is responsible for roots from their tree that cause damage to your property. If your pavement, the foundation of your home, or a fence is damaged by roots from a neighbor’s tree, you likely will have legal recourse for financial relief. While it’s better to notify your neighbor of any problems you notice as soon as they arise to avoid costly damage, there are some instances where filing a civil suit is your only recourse. Your homeowner’s insurance company might wish to do so on your behalf if you file a claim.

Early signs that a tree is struggling include premature leaf shedding and lesions or other strange markings. Peeling bark, dead or rotten branches on the ground, and a conspicuous lack of leaves can all be signs that a tree has started to die. By the time a tree starts leaning, it’s usually too far gone to save.

Your local government is usually in charge of pruning trees on public property, and the power company is responsible for trees near power lines (even if they’re on your property). Whether or not they top these trees depends on their approach to pruning. You won’t be able to do much to control this, but you can contact them to find out more about their pruning process.

It’s possible, although a lot depends on the cause of damage and what steps you take. If the remaining parts of the maple tree are alive and not under attack by disease or pests, they can often be saved even if large portions of the maple tree have died. Frequent watering, careful pruning, mulch, and any recommended fungicides or insecticides can all help with survival.