Question
I am concerned that a tree which is located in ,my backyard may have out of control roots which may damage the foundation of my property. I believe the tree is a liquid amber tree. I saw a program on the Discovery channel which the same type tree caused $780,000 damage  to a California residence( the tree roots had caused structural damage by growing under the residence after the tree had been cut down. How can I find out if that is happening on my property ?

Answer
It will all depend on where the tree is located and how near it is to a structure. The roots of sweetgum will spread about twice the size of the crown area and will in most cases be near the surface of the ground. As the tree grows the roots also grow in diameter pushing up the soil. If the root is under a sidewalk or foundation it may push that up also. Sweetgums are not the best yard tree due to the litter from the cones (balls) ans the roots. If the tree is close to s structure you can cut a trench along the structure and cut the root system (should not cut over a quarter of the system anything over that will effect the health of the tree). I would try calling the Calif. Forestry agency and ask one of their foresters to come out and take a look.