What Can Go Wrong With Tree Stump Removal Norwich?
On paper, tree stump removal in Norwich sounds simple – grind it down, fill the hole, job done. But anyone who’s been in the trade knows it’s rarely that straightforward.
We’ve removed hundreds of stumps across Norwich and Norfolk – everything from rotting apple trees in back gardens to monster conifers in tight city terraces. And we’ve seen it all.
Stump removal and what goes wrong
If you’re thinking of tackling stump removal yourself, or hiring someone in, here’s what can (and often does) go wrong.
1. The wrong machine for the job
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to stump grinders. A little pedestrian grinder might manage a birch stump in a flower bed – but it’ll bounce off a mature oak or conifer base.
We’ve seen people rent small machines from DIY centres and spend hours chewing away with little progress, burning fuel and blunting blades.
Our tip:
In Norwich, with all its tight-access gardens and hidden root networks, we bring multiple grinder sizes – compact for tight corners, tracked for larger removals.
2. Poor access planning
You’d be amazed at how many stumps are unreachable without a proper site survey. Things we regularly run into:
- Narrow alleyways
- No rear access
- Steep gradients
- Steps or decking
Without the right prep, your machine stays on the van. We’ve even dismantled fences (with permission) to get gear through. It’s all doable – but it needs planning.
3. Hitting hidden pipes and cables
Stump grinders go deep – usually 6–12 inches, sometimes more. And that’s the same territory where gas lines, water pipes, and electrics often sit.
We always:
- Ask about known services
- Scan with a CAT scanner
- Dig inspection holes if needed
Failing to check? That’s a recipe for burst pipes or a power cut – and you’re on the hook for it.
Pro tip:
In older Norwich suburbs like Thorpe or Heigham, underground services aren’t always where you’d expect them. Never assume.
4. Roots spreading further than you think
Tree roots can run metres from the main stump – especially with species like sycamore, poplar or willow. We’ve had jobs where the visible stump is only part of the issue. Nearby paving slabs, fences, and sheds have all been affected.
If you only remove the central stump, regrowth or subsidence could follow.
We advise:
Inspecting the full root spread. If needed, we trace and cut back extended roots to prevent future damage.
5. Damage to surrounding features
Close to:
- Fences
- Greenhouses
- Sheds
- Decking
…you need precision. One slip of the grinder or a surprise root flexing can knock a post out or shatter a pane.
That’s why we use protective boards and manual finishing near sensitive areas. The machine does 90% – but the last 10% is handwork and finesse.
6. Leaving a void or dip
Once a stump is ground out, you’re left with a hole full of mulch and sawdust. If it’s not filled properly and allowed to settle, you get a dip in the ground over the next 6–12 months.
We:
- Rake and remove excess mulch (unless the customer wants to keep it)
- Fill with soil/topsoil
- Compact and level
If paving or turf is planned, this step really matters. We’ve been called to “fix” a job where someone removed the stump but didn’t backfill – and the client couldn’t lay slabs without sinking.
7. Forgetting about wildlife and regulations
Bird nesting is usually a concern higher up in the tree, but in older stumps, we’ve seen:
- Hedgehogs nesting
- Slow worms and frogs
- Beetles and grubs (which may attract badgers)
In certain cases, removing a stump could be classed as disturbing protected wildlife.
Also, if a stump is in a conservation area or was part of a protected tree, you may need council permission to remove it.
8. Hiring someone unqualified
We’ve seen stump removals botched by:
- Landscapers with no grinding experience
- Tree fellers without insurance
- DIYers who didn’t realise how dangerous the machines can be
Grinding looks easy – until kickback happens, or debris flies into a window. Always check:
- Insurance cover (public liability minimum £1 million)
- Training and experience
- Equipment condition (teeth sharp? guards fitted?)
Final thought
Thinking of hiring someone for tree stump removal in Norwich? Or planning to do it yourself? Know what can go wrong first. It’ll save you money, time, and possibly your patio. We’re happy to advise – even if you’re just weighing your options.
Drop us a message, send a photo, or ask a question. We’ve probably seen (and sorted) a stump just like yours.
