Estate agents, surveyors and auctioneers will be able to identify potentially hazardous invasive plants more easily following the launch of a new risk assessment app from the Property Care Association (PCA).
The PCA Plant Risk App has been designed to help property professionals identify problematic species including Japanese Knotweed, bamboo, Giant hogweed and Himalayan balsam, while providing guidance on the risks they pose and any action that may be required.
The app combines plant identification technology with a hazard-rating system, helping users assess whether vegetation could present issues ranging from property damage to health and environmental concerns.
Property professionals can upload photographs of unidentified plants, with species identification supported through the Pl@ntNet database. The app then asks a series of questions to assess risk before providing guidance and, where necessary, directing users to specialist invasive weed contractors.
VALUATION IMPACT
The launch comes as awareness of invasive plant species continues to grow across the property sector, particularly where issues can affect valuations, sales transactions and ongoing property management.
Daniel Docking, Technical Manager at the PCA, says: “Invasive plants are not just about whether a species appears on a list. The risk often depends on the plant, the site and the context in which it is growing.”
“While Japanese knotweed is often seen as the main concern, plants such as bamboo, buddleia and other problematic vegetation such as bramble can also create nuisance, management issues or biosecurity concerns in certain environments.
“There are also species, such as Virginia creeper, that are listed in Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which means it is the property-owner’s responsibility to ensure they are not allowed to spread into the wild.”
BIOSECURITY ADVICE
The PCA says early identification can help prevent costly remediation work and reduce disruption for property owners.
Docking adds: “The app is designed to be a useful tool for property professionals, particularly where early identification and practical biosecurity advice could help prevent problems from escalating.
“The earlier problematic plants are recognised, the easier it is to manage spread, reduce disruption and limit potential costs.”
The app also includes a learning hub aimed at improving understanding of invasive plant risks across the property sector.
The app is available now HERE.
