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That is a confusing picture and I had to look at it very closely. The flowering tree looks like it is further off to the right side and only branches are showing in the picture. The tree in question is definitely the conifer and it looks like either a tamarack, larch, fir or hemlock. My experience with those types of conifers is that they have shallow root systems and topple rather easily. Even if the tree topples away from the house, the roots coming out of the ground will do extensive damage to the nearby foundation and walls. If the tree topples onto the house...well it is obvious what will happen.
I love conifers but if it were my house that one would be taken down.
anybody who would cut a tree down because it was within 20 ft of a house is goofy
normally I'd say leave it alone as it likely would have damaged the foundation by now if it was going to. However, I'd be concerned about the split trunks as it probably is just a matter of time (especially if it is in fact a Cedar) before one or both sections come down. Probably a nice supply of wood for your new fire pit.
so probably creating a clearance of 50 or 60 feet should be required in some circumstances?
Depends on the mature height of the tree, and also whether it is a species that is prone to limb dropping - some are much more likely to do this than others.
Anyone who plants a tree should research it first, but lots of people don't. Then subsequent owners either don't know themselves what the potential problems are or do know, but figure that since the tree is still young, they won't worry about it.
It can cost several thousand dollars to remove a mature tree, it's not a job for amateurs.
Still, several thousand dollars can be a lot cheaper than fixing a broken house.
Google "fallen conifer rootball" and specify "images" as I just did. Or "fallen trees after a storm". Then take a look at the trees around your house.
It looks to me as though ALL the trees are too close to the house. Whether or not they are affecting the foundation, they are leaning away from the house, which is a sure sign.
This would not discourage me from buying the house, but you can negotiate for what ever you want, all they can say is no. It will probably cost a few thousand dollars to have big trees like those taken down.
What kind of foundation does the house have? I would make sure your inspector checks it very closely.
My biggest concern would be any root damage to the water/sewer lines, both in and outside of the home. Make sure you have those checked carefully.
I would get rid of the tree too.
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