Extreme weather events occur often this time of year. These summer thunderstorms and hurricanes bring damaging wind and rain along with them, and leave a trail of destruction, like fallen trees, in their paths. Cleaning up and repairing the damage to your house is your next step, but will your homeowner’s insurance cover those services? It all comes down to where the tree fell, what it damaged, and how much destruction it caused.
Wondering what coverage you have or need? Here’s what you need to know.
When Homeowners Insurance Covers Fallen Trees
While there are always policy limits and deductibles to consider, for the most part, your homeowner’s insurance will usually cover the removal of the tree and repairs to your home, as long as the damage was due to a storm. High winds, heavy rain, and even ground flooding can cause a tree to fall. Hurricanes and thunderstorms are two of the most common causes of this type of damage, and both are common this time of year.
Another thing to consider is where the tree fell and what it damaged. For example, if it fell on your garage and damaged the roof, and that building is covered by your insurance, they will most likely pay for the repairs. However, if the tree fell on a shed that isn’t listed on your insurance plan, you might be out of luck because there may not be coverage for that structure.
Situations That May Not Be Covered
Of course, all of that only pertains to trees that fell during a violent storm. What about those that fall on your home, garage, car, or elsewhere on your property due to other reasons? Your insurance policy contains exclusions, and things (like trees) falling in your yard because they’re dead or damaged are usually on that list. A lack of tree maintenance, neglected trees that just fall over, and removing trees due to landscaping reasons aren’t typically covered by your homeowner’s insurance.
However, it’s always a good idea to check your policy prior to storm season setting in.
What to Do If a Tree Falls on Your Property
In the aftermath of a storm, you may see a downed tree on your property. There are a number of things that you need to do. First, check for power lines. If any are down or touching the tree, contact your local fire department and electric company. Next, alert your insurance company about the tree and the damage left behind. After that, take as many photos of the damage as you can so that you have them for your records. From there, your insurance company will help you determine the next steps, like hiring a contractor to have the structure repaired.
Contact Spivey Insurance
If you have any questions about your homeowner’s insurance and where it stands regarding downed trees, please contact Spivey Insurance. Our knowledgeable agents can help you determine what is and isn’t covered, as well as help you find the best possible policy for your needs.