l Emily Schneider writes: I would like to report the damage that an enormous exotic plane tree is causing to my sewerage and water system at my home and to my garage in 8th Street, Parkhurst.

A plumber recently spent four days trying to unblock a sewer pipe leading from my property on to the main sewer line in the street.

But he was unsuccessful because the root system has invaded the place and seems to be covering the sewer and water pipes leading to my house.

My neighbour and I have both complained to City Parks about our driveways being damaged. They have tried to cut some roots away on my neighbour’s side, but this has not alleviated the damage. Cracks are now showing in my garage walls.

City Parks replies: The client resolved the problem because the tree was inside her property. If the damage to water and sewer pipes comes from a tree within a property owner’s boundary, it is their responsibility to foot the costs of damage, even if the actual damage happens outside the boundaries on the pavement. It is only if the tree is outside, on the pavement, that City Parks will accept responsibility.