Property damage is a very serious issue to deal with. When it comes to property insurance claims, fallen trees can be tricky to pin down. During bad storms it’s very common for trees to uproot and fall on people’s yards, cars, or houses. A common question we’re asked frequently is, “my neighbors tree fell in my yard, who pays for it?”. If the tree is healthy and fell due to an act of nature, it can be difficult to claim damages through your neighbor’s insurance.
In most cases, whatever happens to land on your property is now your responsibility. And even though there are some exceptions to these rules, unfortunately trees falling in your yard isn’t one of them. So, if a storm causes your neighbor’s tree to fall in your yard you would be responsible for it. You cannot file a claim and make them responsible for the damage and removal.
This also applies in reverse, as they cannot take any action against you if your tree falls in their yard. Of course, the main distinction here is cause and effect. If you can prove that the tree falling in your yard was diseased or due to the homeowner’s recklessness, then you may be able to make them pay for the damages. However, if that is not the case, you will have to contact your insurance provider and file a claim.
How to File an Insurance Claim
Homeowners insurance covers the costs of removing the tree from your yard and repairing the damage. But before you can make a claim, you will need the right kind of documentation to file a complaint. Once the tree has fallen, the first thing that you will have to do is ensure that it does not cause further damage to your home. Of course, you should only do that when it’s safe.
You should also take a few pictures before and after you remove the tree. This is an important step, as it will make for a more effective claim. You need to show them how the tree affected your home and what the damage looks like.
Talk to your insurance agent and ask them about your options. Follow the steps they lay out and work with them towards filing a claim. Once the claim goes into processing, a claims adjuster will contact you and schedule a meeting to evaluate the damage. They will also be the ones to better explain how homeowners insurance will come into play here. And if things go well, your insurance provider will pay for the damage.
Prevent Tree Damage Entirely
Regardless of whether or not you have proper insurance, fallen trees can be a serious issue. They can cause serious damage or even take the life of an individual. Look for trees that are leaning or that have dead branches. Be sure to take off these branches and give some support to the leaning tree. You also need to inspect your trees to make sure they aren’t dead or have any disease. It’s your responsibility as a homeowner to remove these types of trees so they don’t cause danger to you or others.
Overall, as long as you have homeowners insurance, you do not have to worry about who will pay for the tree that fell in your yard. As long as the claim is valid, your insurance provider will handle removal and repairs. So, make sure to contact your service provider in the event that a tree falls in your yard.
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