One problem is that the first port of call for an insurance company who is eager to avoid a subsidence claim - is to demand the removal of any trees near to the property, however minor the threat. And why not eh? The cost of doing so will be below the subsidence excess so it's no skin of their nose. Equally, they warn about trees that are outside of the boundaries of your property - more often than not this means on the street. They suggest that you contact the council to ask them to 'trim down the tree'. And the first port of call for a local council (equally eager to avoid having to pay a subsidence claim) is to cut it down rather than trim it. And why not? Once it's down, it won't cost them any more. If they leave it, it will only keep growing. That's the trouble with living things.. they just need too much care and attention.