JAPANESE KNOTWEED TA6 FORM
- Completing the TA6 form incorrectly can result in legal liability and misrepresentation claims.
- Answering "No" requires complete certainty, whilst "Not Known" transfers risk to buyers.
- You need a professional survey to complete the form accurately.
- Ensuring the TA6 form is correct prevents legal disputes during property sales.
TA6 PROPERTY INFORMATION FORM
The TA6 form was updated in February 2020, and the question on page 7 was changed. This was following recommendations from the House of Commons Select Committee.
Sellers complete the property information form to give buyers information about the property, answering accurately whether Japanese knotweed is present.
The updated guidance says: “The seller should state whether the property is affected by Japanese knotweed. If you are not sure whether Japanese knotweed exists above or below ground, please say ‘not known’.”
Key Points
The guidance continues: “If ‘No’ is answered, the seller must be certain that no Japanese knotweed rhizome is in the ground of the property or within 3 metres of the property boundary, even if there are no visible signs above ground.” The sale contract is based on the information in the TA6 form.
PRO TIP: Check out our How to Identify Japanese Knotweed Guide.
Common Questions
Your TA6 Form Questions Answered Simply and Clearly.
What is a TA6 property information form?
The standard document used during the conveyancing process to provide buyers with detailed information about a property. It covers alterations and environmental matters and asks sellers about Japanese knotweed.
Who fills in the TA6?
The seller fills in the TA6 form but should consult their solicitor for guidance. The Law Society provides notes to help sellers complete the form accurately. Estate agents may help with form completion, but the responsibility remains with the seller.
Is a TA6 form legally binding?
Yes, once the property information form is part of the Contract of Sale, all information becomes legally binding. Sellers can be sued for misrepresentation if they put incorrect information about Japanese knotweed on the form. The Law Society guidance makes it clear that sellers must be accurate to avoid potential compensation claims. Visit our Japanese Knotweed UK Law page for more details about your legal obligations.
Should I say Not Known or No if I'm unsure?
If you are unsure answer Not Known. The Law Society guidance is that if you are not certain that Japanese knotweed exists above or below ground say not known. This protects you from misrepresentation claims but transfers the investigation to the buyer.
Do I need a professional survey to complete the TA6 form?
We highly recommend a survey if you want to answer “No” with confidence. A full report from qualified surveyors will identify the presence of this invasive plant and any problem, protecting you from legal issues.
What happens if I put Japanese knotweed on the TA6 form incorrectly?
Answering on the form incorrectly can cost you over £30,000. If Japanese knotweed appears after completion and you put “No” without being sure, buyers can sue you for misrepresentation.
Can I be sued if Japanese knotweed is found after I've sold my property?
Yes, if you answered the TA6 incorrectly. Buyers who find Japanese knotweed after purchase can claim for treatment costs and property devaluation.
What is the question about Japanese knotweed in TA6?
The form asks: “Is the property affected by Japanese knotweed?” with three options: Yes, No, or Not Known. This means sellers must disclose if the invasive plant is above or below ground or within three metres of the property boundary.
When do I get the TA6?
Buyers usually get the completed TA6 form early on in the process, along with other property paperwork. The form should be provided before any commitments are made so buyers can make an informed decision about the purchase.
When can I say No to the Japanese knotweed question?
You can only say No if you are 100% certain there is no Japanese knotweed rhizome in the property or within 3 metres of the property boundary, even if there are no visible signs above ground. Without a Japanese Knotweed site survey, most sellers can’t achieve this certainty.
What if Japanese knotweed was treated years ago - how do I answer?
Answer “Yes” and tell them about previous treatment.
How much does a knotweed survey cost?
Surveys vary (but if you use us for a survey and go ahead with a management plan we deduct the cost of the survey, so it’s free), but are a fraction of the £30,000+ you could be liable for in misrepresentation claims.
What happens if a survey finds Japanese knotweed on my property?
If Japanese knotweed is found the surveyor will produce a full report showing extent of infestation and recommend treatment options. You’ll need to tick “Yes” on the TA6 and give the management plan to potential buyers.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS: WHY JAPANESE KNOTWEED MATTERS
Environmental factors play a big part in property transactions and Japanese knotweed is one of the top concerns on property information forms. This invasive species can cause serious structural damage and devalue your property.
The Law Society’s TA6 form requires sellers to disclose any Japanese knotweed on the property so buyers get full information about the risks to the property.
National Trading Standards Estate and Letting Agency Team stresses transparency on environmental matters including Japanese knotweed. Their guidance advises sellers to be honest to avoid future disputes and delays during the selling process.
CALL US NOW TO ARRANGE A KNOTWEED SURVEY
AS A BUYER HOW CAN I MAKE SURE THERE IS NO JAPANESE KNOTWEED?
The TA6 form has a simple question on Japanese knotweed:
Is the property affected by Japanese knotweed?
Sellers can respond with:
- Yes
- No
- Not known
While this seems a simple question, be cautious with NOT KNOWN responses. We strongly recommend asking or commissioning an independent survey before you proceed with your purchase.
Can I still get a mortgage if Japanese knotweed is present?
Many lenders will provide mortgages for properties affected by Japanese knotweed, provided there is a professional management plan. Consult with your solicitor and mortgage broker early to understand specific lender requirements.
What should I do if the seller answers "Not Known"?
Insist on a Japanese knotweed survey before proceeding with the purchase. By choosing “Not Known,” sellers shift liability to you as the buyer. If Japanese knotweed emerges after completion, you would be responsible for the treatment costs.
How long does it take to get a Japanese knotweed survey?
Most surveys can be arranged within days. The surveyor will provide a detailed report shortly after the site visit.
Before proceeding with the purchase, have a survey completed and note the date of the survey, as this can be important in the event of future disputes. The purchase process carries risks if Japanese knotweed is not identified before the completion date.
ARRANGE YOUR LOW COST JAPANESE KNOTWEED SURVEY TODAY
I'M SELLING MY HOUSE – WHAT SHOULD I DO?
The safest approach is to commission a low cost Japanese knotweed survey to confirm absence within 3 metres of boundaries. A thorough TA6 will support transparency and buyer confidence. Professional organisation members can help you comply with disclosure requirements.
Can I download a TA6?
Use the correct one provided by your solicitor. The Law Society update the form regularly and using an old one could cause problems. Your solicitor will provide the latest version with notes.
Is the new TA6 compulsory?
Not legally but it’s standard practice in property transactions. Most solicitors and estate agents recommend it for transparency. Lenders and buyers expect the form to be completed.
Tell your estate agent about Japanese knotweed presence or absence as they must disclose this to buyers during conveyancing. For new builds ask the developer if Japanese knotweed has been managed. For leaseholds check with the landlord what’s managed.
LEASEHOLD PROPERTIES: SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Leasehold properties have special considerations when it comes to Japanese knotweed. The Leasehold Information Form (TA7) which is completed along with the TA6 during the conveyancing process asks specific questions about Japanese knotweed. Sellers completing the TA6 and TA7 forms must disclose if the property is affected by Japanese knotweed.
How does Japanese knotweed affect leasehold properties differently?
Leasehold properties have extra complications because Japanese knotweed can spread across boundaries. The Leasehold Information Form (TA7) asks specific questions and management companies may be responsible for treating Japanese knotweed on common land. Leaseholders should speak to their landlord and management company about any Japanese knotweed issues.
Who is responsible for treatment in leasehold properties?
It depends on where the Japanese knotweed is and the lease terms. If it’s in your boundary it’s you, if it’s on communal land it’s the landlord or management company. Check your lease and speak to your solicitor to see what your obligations are.
Sellers must complete TA6 and TA7 forms fully and accurately about any Japanese knotweed issues. Buyers should commission a survey before buying leasehold properties as a full report will show the extent of the infestation.
PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE FROM A JAPANESE KNOTWEED COMPANY
If you’re unsure about any aspect of Japanese knotweed and TA6 form (or TA7 form) completion, get in touch with us. Our surveys provide the certainty you need to complete the TA6 property information form with confidence, protecting both buyers and sellers during the conveyancing process.
