Neighbors tree damaging my roof

[Andrea M.]

So my tenant calls and tells me, that she thinks the tree in the neighbors yard is damaging my roof because she saw some shingles on the ground in the backyard.

Needless to say, I go over there to check and from the ground I can see the tree branches are actually touching my roof. Since we will be entering hurricane season shortly, I need those branches cut/trimmed to avoid any major mishaps.

I plan on sending a letter to the owner of the neighboring property but should I request permission to cut the branches off of her tree or should I just tell her that I will be cutting the branches?

[Matthew Edmond]

A quick check with the local ordinances is probably sufficient. In our area, any portion of trees on your property (or above, strictly speaking) can be trimmed without permission from the owner. I think you are on the right track with a letter of courtesy stating your plans, maybe evening citing the ordinance if you are fearful of objections. A permission request could drag it out needlessly, I would think.