Need Advice Van Metre Trespass

Has any one else had issues with Van Metre trespassing repeatedly on their land and causing damage? If so, how did you deal with it because the issue does not seem to be improving after talking to them?

The first time this happened, we came home to find a tree planted in our backyard--half way into a garden bed that I had just spent the previous weekend preparing, causing damage to the bed and surrounding area.

The second and third time, VM's landscaping crew has started mowing/treating my lawn. Granted, I am sure many homeowners appreciate this service, the service has not been following best practices (VA Tech website) by cutting the grass to 3/4" (when it should be 2-3") and the dull blades are causing "dull-mower disease". I also do not appreciate herbicide and fertilizer added when I am trying to establish a more natural lawn care regimen (i.e., cutting at 3" to keep weeds from establishing and using compost instead of fertilizer, which also helps with moisture management in the summer).

Thank you for your advice,
Joe

 

If you are in Southern Walk Courtyard homes, it is not trespassing as it is part of the contract.
You can request that HLS (landscaping comp) not take care of of your yard. Call the HOA office and let them know your wishes.

 

Thanks for the advice. I actually live in Broadlands Station, so it isn't part of the contract. This neighborhood's common area still is managed by VM, but I don't know why they come on to my property (inside my closed fence when the tree was planted).

 

I live in BS and the day they were planting the trees they actually rang my bell because my yard gate was locked. (I happened to be working from home that day) and they asked me if I wanted the tree. Im sure you have done this but I always keep my fence locked. I also put a 2nd lock on it in addition to the cheap lock that VM installed when they put up my fence. There are so many random construction and utilities people around I prefer to keep it locked all the time. I would ask Victor to put up a small sign for you on the patch of grass in the front that they are mowing. You are probably not the only person that has requested this and they should have something uniform that the landscapers can recognize. Good luck!

 

If you have a newer home the tree was most likely on the plans to be planted on your lot. They had plans to plant many trees on my lot. It took them almost 18 months after we moved in to plant them.

The issue with mowing is sometimes HLS workers don't know where common area ends and private property begins.