How close can an avocado tree be planted to the foundation of a house without causing damage to the foundation

Question

The tree belongs to a neighbor, and I'm not familiar with their irrigation set up or watering habits. They are relatively new homeowners.

Answer 1

The Avocado Tree is a soft rooted plant. The roots will not raise pavement or damage any foundation. The feeder roots grow like a thick floor mat in the top foot of soil and are kept protected by allowing a thick mulch of natural leaf drop. (One should never remove the leaves from under an Avocado Tree.) The tree will get 90% of it's water from the top 2 feet of soil.
I had 104 mature Avocado trees on my property. They grew right up next to my house, garage, pool, driveway and sidewalks and never got so much as a crack in anything.
as for their irrigation needs, have your neighbor contact your local county farm advisors office and ask to speak with the MASTER GARDENER on duty. the MG will provide your neighbor with all the info about your local micro-climate and answer any other questions your neighbor may have.

Answer 2

Any tree should be planted clear of the drip line (eaves) of a house... picture it 15 feet high... will it clear the house or get caught under the eaves? If it will get caught, it's too close.