Best Japanese Knotweed Companies UK
Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is an invasive plant species that can cause serious damage to property foundations, flood defenses, and biodiversity.
If you discover knotweed on your land or property, hiring a specialist remediation company is essential.
This page aims to help you choose trustworthy, effective providers by comparing top UK companies, outlining what to look for, pricing, and frequently asked questions.
Top 5 Japanese Knotweed Companies in the UK
The Best 5 Japanese Knotweed Companies in the UK are:
- Japanese Knotweed Specialist – (Japanese-knotweed.org.uk)
- Japanese Knotweed Removal – (japaneseknotweedremoval.org.uk)
- Japanese Knotweed Ltd – (japaneseknotweed.co.uk)
- Knotweed Services – (knotweedservices.co.uk)
- The Knotweed Company – knotweed-removal.co.uk
Below is a comparison of several UK firms known for knotweed removal.
| Company | Coverage / Regions | Treatment Methods | Guarantee Offered | Highlights / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Japanese-Knotweed-Survey | Nationwide / regional offices | Combined herbicide + root barrier, excavation | Up to 10 years | Strong reputation, detailed site surveys |
| Japanese-Knotweed.org.uk | England, Scotland, Wales | Injection, cut & fill, barrier | 5-10 years | Transparent pricing, case study gallery |
| Japanese Knotweed Ltd | London & Home Counties | Comprehensive integrated solutions | 5 years | Good customer support, local focus |
| Southern Knotweed Solutions | South England, Devon, Cornwall | Herbicide + barrier, occasional excavation | 7 years | Specializes in coastal soils |
| Northern Invasive Plant Control | North England, Scotland | Herbicide treatment, excavation when needed | 5 years | Local experts close to you |
| Midlands Weed Specialists | West Midlands, East Midlands | Whole plant removal + barrier system | 5–8 years | Strong local presence |
What Makes a Great Japanese Knotweed Removal Company?
Before diving into company recommendations, here are key criteria you should evaluate:
- UKAS / FSA Accreditation or Certification
A company should ideally be certified by recognized bodies (e.g., FSA – the Property Care Association’s FSA membership) or hold relevant environmental licences. - Treatment Methods & Guarantee Offered
The best companies use science-backed methods (herbicide injection, excavation, root barrier, combined treatments) and provide a multi-year guarantee (often 5–10 years). - Local Experience & Regional Service Coverage
Knotweed in clay soil in Wales behaves differently than in chalky soil in Hampshire. Ensure the company has experience in your local region. - Track Record & Reputation
Look for case studies, reviews, photographs before/after, client testimonials, and potentially references. - Regulatory Compliance & Insurance
They should handle permits, liaise with local authorities (if in conservation areas), and have adequate liability insurance. - Transparent Costing & Clear Contract Terms
The proposal should break down treatment stages, milestones, duration, guarantee conditions, and payment schedule.
How to Choose the Right Company: Step-by-Step Guide
- Initial Survey & Site Visit
A reputable company should visit your site (or ask for detailed photos) and map the extent of the infestation (above & below ground). - Detailed Remediation Proposal
Request a written proposal that lays out:- Techniques proposed (e.g., herbicide, root barrier, excavation)
- Timeline
- Guarantee terms (e.g. duration, conditions, what happens if knotweed returns)
- Payment schedule (e.g. deposit, payments at milestones)
- Check Credentials & References
Validate their membership in professional associations (e.g. Property Care Association, FSA), check past client testimonials or case studies, and ask for references. - Obtain Multiple Quotes
Comparing 2–3 proposals gives you perspective. Beware of quotes that are too cheap (may cut corners) or excessively expensive without justification. - Understand Post-Treatment Monitoring
Knotweed removal is rarely a one-off job. Ensure the contract includes follow-up visits, monitoring, and maintenance regrowth checks for a number of years. - Permit & Compliance Handling
In certain locations (near watercourses, conservation areas), you may need environmental permits. The selected company should handle that on your behalf.
Pricing & Cost Factors
Costs for Japanese knotweed removal in the UK vary. Key factors that influence the price:
- Infestation Size & Depth – More plants, deeper root systems, spread area = higher cost
- Soil Type / Site Conditions – Rocky, compacted, or hard access areas increase difficulty
- Access & Logistics – Restricted access, fencing, scaffolding raise cost
- Method Used – Herbicide-only is cheaper, excavation + barrier is more expensive
- Guarantee Period & Monitoring – Longer guarantees and more monitoring raise cost
Typical Price Ranges (indicative, UK)
| Scope | Approx Cost Estimate* |
|---|---|
| Small garden patch (10 m²) | £800 – £2,500 |
| Medium area (50 m²) | £2,500 – £8,000 |
| Large site / commercial plots | ÂŁ8,000+ |
* These are indicative ranges—always get site-specific quotes.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: How long does it take to remove Japanese knotweed completely?
A: Treatment can span 3–7 years, depending on severity and method, with multiple visits and monitoring.
Q: Can you just dig it up and remove it all?
A: Full excavation is sometimes possible but costly. Also, disposal is regulated (classified as “controlled waste”) and must be handled properly.
Q: Is it safe to remain in your house while treatments are applied?
A: Yes, when performed by licensed professionals using approved herbicides, the process is generally safe for occupants.
Q: Will knotweed affect my ability to sell my home?
A: Yes — many lenders require a treatment plan or proof of remediation before approving mortgages. A good company will provide this documentation.
Q: Do I need to tell neighbours or local authority?
A: It’s best to inform neighbours if treatment involves herbicides or works near boundaries. If your site is close to protected land or water, you may need local authority or environmental agency approval.
Next Steps
If you have or suspect Japanese knotweed on your property in the UK, it’s important to act early and hire an experienced, accredited specialist. Use the company comparison above as a starting point, but always:
- Get site-specific quotes
- Verify credentials
- Ensure proper guarantee and monitoring
- Choose one close to your region