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, if you have physical damage coverage (also known as 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.
How to Prevent Damage from Falling Trees on Your Property
Though “Acts of God” are often unavoidable, there are steps you can take to prevent trees from falling on your property. Here, Central’s loss control experts outline some of the best practices for keeping your trees—and your property—safe.
- Regular Tree Maintenance
Inspect Regularly: Conduct regular inspections of trees on your property to identify signs of disease, decay, or structural weakness. Look for dead branches, cracks in the trunk, or areas where the bark is peeling.
Prune When Necessary: Regular pruning helps remove weak or dead branches that could fall during storms. Proper pruning techniques also promote healthy growth and reduce the risk of entire trees toppling.
- Get Professional Assessments
Hire an Arborist: Engage a certified arborist to perform a thorough assessment of your trees. An arborist can identify potential hazards that might not be visible to an untrained eye and provide expert recommendations on how to mitigate risks.
Implement Recommendations: Follow the arborist’s advice, which may include tree trimming, treatment for diseases, or, in some cases, tree removal to prevent future damage.
- Take Proactive Measures
Clear Surroundings: Ensure the area around your trees is clear of potential targets for falling branches, such as parked cars or outdoor furniture.
Secure Structures: Install protective barriers or supports around young trees to help them withstand strong winds. For mature trees, ensure they have adequate root support and are not destabilized by construction or landscaping activities nearby.
By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage from fallen trees and ensure a safer environment for your property and loved ones.
