Dying Tree(s)

[sianyb83]

We've had several disputes with our neighbors over their trees.
The are super protective of them and don't want us trimming anything overhanging.
They mentioned that their very very large horse chestnut is dying, and will need to be removed within 5 years.
As it is large and close to our house, and blocks all sunlight from 3pm onwards, obviously we thought this was good news.
We offered to pay for the (early) removal of this tree, as worth it if it means we can use our garden a lot more over next 5 years.
They then said actually it will take 10 years to die, and as removing would add significant value to our house they'd rather leave it.
I have 3 young kids, so obviously thought of dying tree rather worrying!
If it fell it would take my house down with it.
Only sign of ill health in tree are large yellow blotches on the leaves.

should I just let it run its course? and hope they remove it in 5 years or before?

Jesus. What did you do to your neighbours to piss them off so much that they would rather have a dying tree in their garden for 10 years because removing it would add value to your house?

Mention the word ‘Insurance’. When we had several very mature Trees bordering our garden we made sure that our house insurance covered them falling on people or property.
We had to have them checked by a tree surgeon every 2 years.

Mention the word ‘Insurance’.

Yes... mentioning potential insurance claims was effective when the landowner behind us wasn't dealing with tall unstable trees. I can't remember if we had to get to the stage of a 'solicitors letter' clarifying that they'd be held liable for any damage caused if the trees fell....

If the relationship isn't great anyway and the trees are causing you issues I would simply cut back any overhanging branches. You are entitled to do this.

@HasaDigaEebowai

If the relationship isn't great anyway and the trees are causing you issues I would simply cut back any overhanging branches. You are entitled to do this.

It's a 'very very large' horse chestnut. The OP might find it slightly difficult...

She could get a tree surgeon to do it...

But I'd be talking about possible insurance claims. Remind them that it'd be their insurance that paid not yours.