Allerton family concerned with future of home as tree roots spread underground
Raphel and Cecilia Alford say they have been living in their home for more than 30 years. They spoke to News 12 about their growing concern with what is growing underneath their property
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An Allerton family says they are concerned about the structure of their home as the roots of a longstanding tree continue to expand into their yard.
Raphel and Cecilia Alford say they have been living in their home for more than 30 years. They spoke to News 12 about their growing concern with what is growing underneath their property.
"It seems as though the roots are affecting this area here,” shared Cecilia.
When walking near and on their property, one can better feel the uneven areas than one can initially see them.
The family says throughout the years they have paid out of pocket to repair portions of the sidewalk and made multiple complaints to 311.
"Once you fix it, it's broken up again. That tells us the roots are getting bigger and bigger and bigger, " said Raphel.
The Alfords shared they are now concerned with the tree roots sprouting and spreading through their front yard and into the basement of their home.
"They (the city) will come, and they will say nothing is wrong. Something is wrong because we have to make changes here, and this is our expense," Cecilia continued.
News 12 reached out to NYC Parks to ask what can be done about the roots.
In a statement, a spokesperson fro NYC Parks wrote that a forestry inspector will examine the tree within the next month.
They claim the site is not eligible for the NYC Parks trees and sidewalks program due to the commercial use of the building. Only one- to three-family owner-occupied, residential properties are eligible.
The statement went on to say, "For additional guidance on making a safe, long-lasting repair to their sidewalk, NYC Parks can provide design guidance to their contractor as part of the permitting process and provide documentation that the property owner can use to support a claim with the Comptroller's office if they choose to file a claim."
