Subsidence-causing trees are being identified by gene detectives to help insurers uncover liability.
Newcastle University scientists are using DNA fingerprinting to help insurers identify trees that are causing houses to subside.
Often disputes can last for several years, as when two trees of the same kind grow in an area it is very difficult to find out which one is behind the problem.
The scientists have set up a company, Bioprofiles, to carry out the work.
Keith Gaston, a partner with Essex-based Gaston Whybrew Solicitors, who specialise in cases involving subsidence, said: "This is an interesting development - cases where trees are alleged to have caused damage can result in substantial claims, and disputes often arise as to whether a particular tree has been a causative factor and if so to what extent.
"It is to be hoped that this technique will assist in resolving disputes at an earlier stage than would otherwise be the case."
