would an espaliered pear tree damage house foundations?

[reddemonsinthegarden]

That's it, really. I have an otherwise perfect southfacing patch, which is directly outside my door! Would it be wise to plant one there? and if it IS ok, do I need two plants for cross-pollination?

highly unlikely
and depends on the variety

It'll be fine. Anglesey Abbey has the most amazing and huge espaliered pear growing up the side of it. It is magnificent and ancient.

Anglesey Abbey pear tree

Depends on the soil (esp if clay) and the structure of your building (eg depth of the foundations).

But presumably an espaliered pear would be kept very small?

thanks, everyone, for your replies.
yes, it would be a small tree, as the width available is only about6-8 foot.