A tree can fall at any time of the year, but it happens most commonly during the spring and summer when thunderstorms are prevalent. Winter isn’t safe either, for that matter, what with all the snow-laden and ice-covered trees around…
Below are some common insurance issues to familiarize yourself with in the event of a tree falling on your house or property:
Fallen trees and your neighbors
Your home insurance policy generally covers your property only. Therefore, if your tree falls on your neighbor’s home, their policy should cover damage or any tree removal.
Trees in the street
Check with your city government if a tree has fallen in the street. They will most likely remove the tree from the street, but you may be financially responsible for what is on your property.
Cars damaged by trees
Car insurance, not homeowner’s insurance, will cover damage done to your car by a fallen tree. Depending on your auto insurance, it’s possible only the car damage will be covered and not the removal of the tree.
Other items damaged by trees
A homeowner’s insurance policy generally covers items that a fallen tree has damaged, but if the tree falls in your yard and does not damage any structures or personal property, you may have to cover the cost of removal yourself.
According to InsuranceClaimsGroup.com, “Evеrу insurance carrier handles fallen trees differently. It all depends on thе specifics оf уоur policy аnd уоur coverage limits, аѕ wеll аѕ thе specifics оf уоur situation.”
If you get into a dispute with an insurance company, don’t forget to lawyer up. An insurance dispute attorney knows how to hold insurers accountable by the law. Check our free legal directory for a lawyer with the right experience in your area.