Could chopping down a silver birch tree affect sub soil and create damage to drains and foundations?
The problem wouldn’t show up right away, but when the roots begin to dessicate, the soil will soften and settle–which can cause swales and land shift, depending on how wide the the root system is. Although I hate cutting down a tree, if its root system were to continue to expand and could damage septic systems, foundations, other underground amenities or swimming pools, you don’t have much of an option. You may need to check to see if your area has a tree ordinance as you may need a permit to cut it.