After the recent snowstorm, which dropped heavy, wet snow on the region, you may have some downed tree limbs and branches around your home. If the damage is significant, or the limb removal will require the assistance of a tree company, you may be wondering whether tree losses are covered by your insurance policy.
While it’s always best to call your insurance agent, as coverage may differ depending on your insurance policy, here are some scenarios and information on how your insurance policy is likely to respond:
1. A large limb, from your neighbor’s healthy oak tree, fell and damaged your fence. While you may think that the neighbor is responsible for their tree, and the subsequent damage to your fence, it is actually your responsibility since the fallen tree is on your property. In general, your homeowners policy will pay for the removal of the tree and the damage to your fence, minus your deductible.
2. A limb, from your neighbor’s rotting, unhealthy oak tree, falls and damages your fence. In this case, if your neighbor’s tree was an old, aging tree and, in the past, you expressed concern about the tree to your neighbor, your insurance carrier may hold them liable for the damage it caused and for the removal expenses. If you have concerns about your neighbor’s rotting tree, it is wise to talk with them, or send a letter, suggesting pruning or getting the tree removed before a loss occurs.
3. A tree falls on your property, but doesn’t damage anything. In this scenario, coverage will depend on your particular insurance policy. Some carriers will provide a limited amount of tree removal coverage, minus your deductible, even if the tree does not cause any damage. Other carriers require property damage (to your house, fence, etc) before they will provide tree removal coverage.
4. A tree limb falls on you car. In this case, your automobile policy will respond if you carry comprehensive insurance coverage. If possible, avoid parking your car under trees if heavy snow, or ice, is expected.
While snow can be pretty while falling, accumulations of snow and ice can put significant weight on your trees, making them dangerous. Use caution when walking under snow covered limbs and try and to prevent losses by keeping your trees regularly pruned.
