24/08/2026
Tree Pruning in Malabar – Reducing Leaf Drop Over a Neighbour’s Roof
A recent tree pruning job in Malabar, NSW required a careful solution that worked for both neighbouring properties.
A large limb from a mature deciduous tree was extending directly over the neighbour’s brand-new house. During the growing season, the heavy foliage was dropping a significant amount of leaves onto the roof and into the gutters.
Because the tree was dormant and had no leaves, this was a good opportunity to carry out the pruning before spring growth returned.
Why Didn’t We Remove the Entire Limb?
In this situation, council regulations did not allow us to remove the entire limb. Although complete removal may appear to be the simplest solution for roof clearance, we must always work within the pruning limits permitted by the local council.
Instead, we selectively thinned the section of canopy extending directly over the roof. This significantly reduced the amount of future foliage and leaf drop while retaining the end of the branch as required.
The pruning achieved approximately an 80% reduction in foliage over the house. Retaining the branch end also helps maintain the health and structure of the limb and reduces the likelihood of excessive regrowth or the branch becoming a future hazard.
The result was a practical compromise: the neighbour received significantly better roof and gutter clearance, while the tree owner—who loves the tree—was able to keep the remainder of the canopy largely untouched.
It’s a good example of how professional tree pruning isn’t always about removing the largest possible branch. Sometimes the best solution is finding the balance between council requirements, tree health and what both property owners are trying to achieve.
At Home Tree Services, we provide professional tree pruning, building clearance and roof clearance in Malabar, Maroubra, Matraville, Little Bay, Coogee, Randwick and throughout Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.
🌳 Home Tree Services – Your safe choice for all tree services.
