Heavy winds can lead to a significant increase in claims for downed trees. In 2023, severe storms and high winds caused thousands of trees to fall, leading to substantial damage and costly insurance claims. For example, a series of storms in San Francisco alone resulted in over 1,000 fallen trees, significantly impacting homes, cars, and power lines.
Having a fallen tree on your property can be more than just a nuisance. According to Consumer Reports, the median amount paid by insurance companies for settled tree claims was $4,110, with 7% of all settled claims caused by a fallen tree.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Fallen Trees?
Homeowner’s insurance covers the cost of any damage caused by a tree falling onto your home, whereas auto insurance will cover the cost of damage from a falling tree onto a personal vehicle.
For auto coverage to apply, the vehicle needs to be insured for comprehensive coverage.
Who Is Liable for a Neighbor’s Tree Falling on Your Property?
If a tree on your neighbor’s property falls and damages your fence, garage, or other property, your insurance is responsible for covering the loss. Even though it’s not your tree, it fell due to an “Act of God,” meaning your neighbor isn’t liable. They couldn’t have predicted the tree would fall.
That being said, the same is true for a tree on your property that falls on a neighbor’s yard due to an “Act of God.” In that case, your neighbor’s insurance would cover the damage caused by the tree.
The only exception to this rule is if the tree was dead or showing signs of being ill before it fell. In this scenario, if your neighbor’s tree falls on your property and causes damage, your neighbor’s insurance should cover the damage, as they would be considered negligent for not addressing the hazard. The same rules apply if a tree on your property falls onto your neighbor’s property.
With summer storms blowing in daily, it is a good time to check your trees for disease and damage and mitigate any findings.
