The Top Five Questions About Trees And Homeowners’ Insurance

Trees add beauty, shade, and value to a property, but when disaster strikes, they can become a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Understanding how your homeowner’s insurance policy handles tree damage is crucial before a storm rolls in. Here are the top five questions homeowners ask about trees and their insurance coverage.

1. Does my policy cover damage from a tree falling on my house?

Yes, generally. Homeowner’s insurance policies typically cover damage to your dwelling and other structures (like a garage or fence) caused by a tree or limb that falls due to a covered peril. These perils usually include windstorms, hail, lightning, ice or snow accumulation, or fire. The policy covers the cost to repair the damage and often consists of a separate, limited amount (usually $500 to $1,000) for debris removal.

2. What if a tree falls on my property but doesn’t hit a structure?

If a tree falls onto your lawn, driveway, or garden without damaging a covered structure, it is usually not covered by insurance. Insurance is designed to cover sudden, accidental damage to structures, not general landscaping issues. However, if the fallen tree is blocking a driveway or access ramp for a disabled person, some policies may provide limited coverage for removal.

3. Am I covered if my neighbor’s tree falls on my house?

Yes. In most cases, your homeowner’s policy will pay for the damage, regardless of whether the tree originated from your property or your neighbor’s. Your insurance company will then decide whether to seek reimbursement (subrogation) from your neighbor’s insurance, especially if the neighbor was negligent (e.g., they knew the tree was dead or diseased and did nothing).

4. Does insurance cover the removal of a healthy tree after a storm?

If a healthy tree is knocked over by a covered peril (such as wind) and damages a covered structure, the debris removal costs are generally covered up to the policy limit for that purpose. If the healthy tree falls but does not damage a covered structure, removal is typically not covered (see Question 2).

5. Is a tree covered if it falls due to age, rot, or an infectious disease?

No. Damage caused by a tree that falls due to rot, disease, or simply old age is typically considered a maintenance issue and is not covered by a standard homeowner’s policy. Insurers expect homeowners to take reasonable care of their property, which includes removing dead or obviously hazardous trees before they cause damage.

Understanding these points can save you significant time and frustration. Always review your specific policy documents or speak with your insurance agent for precise coverage details.

To get an affordable homeowners insurance quote today contact the Howard Steele Agency by calling us at (541) 318-8835 or click here to connect with us online.