10 Signs a Tree May Fall on Your Property and How Insurance Responds

10 signs a tree could be in danger of falling:

1. Cracks in the trunk could signal a structural weakness.
2. An increase in falling branches could indicate that the tree may not be getting enough nutrients or is battling a bug infestation.
3. Areas lacking bark could mean the tree is dead or dying.
4. Leaves missing close to the trunk could mean something is affecting the root zone.
5. Exposed roots are not inherently a bad sign, but they can be vulnerable to damage from landscape equipment, which can impact the tree’s integrity.
6. Soft spots can be a sign of a fungal or pest infestation.
7. Vines covering the tree can trap moisture and create fungal or bacterial infections on the tree.
8. Hollow or decayed places can be caused by decay within the tree and are often a result of improper pruning.
9. Mushroom or fungi growth at the tree’s base can be a sign that the roots are rotting.
10. Significant leaning may be a result of wind or root damage, and it will most likely need to be removed. Note that some trees grow at an angle, which may not be as hazardous.

When does insurance cover damage cause by a fallen tree?

Homeowner’s Insurance (Property Owner’s Insurance):

If the tree falls on your own property (e.g., your house or other structures), your homeowner’s insurance typically covers the damage—subject to your deductible. This would apply whether the tree was healthy or if it fell due to weather or another event.

Neighbor’s Homeowner’s Insurance:

If the tree fell from a neighbor’s property and caused damage to your property, it depends on the situation. If the tree was healthy, you most likely wouldn’t have grounds for a claim against their insurance; however, your own homeowner’s insurance would cover the damage to your property—subject to your deductible. If the tree was in poor condition and you have proof that you notified them (best by certified letter) of the concern and asked them to address the risk, you may have grounds to make a claim against their insurance, but it can still be complicated.

Auto Insurance:

If the tree falls on your car, your auto insurance will cover the damage if you have comprehensive coverage (which covers non-collision damage, including falling objects or weather events)—subject to your deductible.

Does insurance pay for the removal of the tree?

In most cases, homeowner’s insurance does not cover the cost of removing a fallen tree if it does not hit a structure or cause damage to property or block the access to your property. However, there are some exceptions:

1. Tree Removal Coverage: Some homeowner’s insurance policies may offer limited coverage for tree removal, even if the tree didn’t damage a structure. For example, your policy might cover the removal of a fallen tree if it blocks a driveway or pathway, making it difficult to access your property.

2. Debris Removal: If a tree causes damage to your property (e.g., falls on your house, garage, or car), most homeowner’s insurance policies will cover the cost of removing the tree as part of the overall claim. But if the tree only falls on your lawn or other areas not causing damage, you’ll likely need to pay for removal out of pocket.

3. Other Types of Insurance: If the tree falls on a vehicle or other insured property, your auto insurance (for cars) or commercial insurance (for businesses) might help cover the removal costs if there’s damage.

It’s always a good idea to check your policy details or ask your agent to clarify your tree removal coverage, as it can vary by insurer and location.

In general, when it comes to damage caused by trees, it depends on where the tree was, its condition, and the circumstances surrounding its fall. It’s always a good idea to consult with your insurance company if you have specific concerns. Taking steps as needed to mitigate the risk of falling trees on your home or surrounding areas is a smart decision to help manage insurance costs by avoiding claims.

Contact a local arborist to help inspect trees on your property for signs of damage and decay.