Neighbor mad about my supposed damaging tree roots

[Patrick W.]

I purchased a property in the City of Buffalo, NY a little over a year ago

My neighbor is now mad because she claims the tree is my backyard that is on the property line (it’s in my yard), is buckling her semi-new driveway and the roots are growing into her basement.

She said it’s my responsibility and that I “need to take care of it and if not, I’ll sue you”.

I told her she’ll have to do whatever she has to do. In normal circumstances I would try to discuss it a little more and work with someone on this, but the wrongs of the previous investor have suddenly become my fault and I cannot have a civilized discussion with her.

Anyone have experience with this? I see conflicting things on the internet.

[Matthew Paul]

You and the neighbor have a property line between you . Anything over the property line on her side is her problem . Branches in the air over the line , she can cut at her will . Roots in the ground are also hers to cut as she sees fit . Its called root pruning .  Its their responsibility to maintain their own property