Who is Responsible for a Fallen Tree?

Healthy, well-cared-for trees add more than value to your property and contribute significantly to the environment's well-being. However, many reasons why a tree or large branches fall, causing significant damage or personal injury. Even if this doesn't happen, it can still leave a mess that nobody wants to clean. Most people who have experienced such an emergency tend to ask themselves: Who is responsible for a fallen tree? Who will be held liable in case of injury or property damage? Who should call a tree care company for tree removal between your neighbor and you? At Southern Star Tree, we have a dedicated and well-trained team of experts who provide quality tree service and maintenance.

Who is Liable for a Fallen Tree?

Before you determine who's liable for a fallen tree, there are several things one needs to keep in mind before covering any costs related to damage. The first factor to consider is why the tree fell since some causes are beyond your control, but others are avoidable with regular tree care. Some of the common natural causes of falling trees include various environmental phenomena, such as snowstorms, high winds, hurricanes, or other unavoidable events. On the other hand, causes resulting from negligence range from improper pruning and trimming to ignoring signs of diseases or infestation.

Another factor in helping you determine who is liable is discovering whose tree it belongs to, especially if you live near your neighbor. A tree is considered yours if the trunk grows within your property, regardless of how much the tree grows onto your neighbor's property since it is rooted on your property. If you live in an area surrounded by trees, it might not be easy who tree belongs to unless a professional tree service provider is hired to ease the process.

A tree that grows directly on the property line or between two property lines means that you and your neighbor are responsible for the tree. However, a fallen tree is considered your neighbor's responsibility if it is rooted in their property. There are exceptional circumstances when the responsibility is shared.

Will My Homeowners Insurance Cover Fallen Trees?

Most people would like to leave all the heavy lifting to the insurance company; several factors can affect your homeowners insurance from covering the cost of damage. Insurance providers would cover costs associated with a fallen tree if the cause was natural, resulting in damage to your home and surrounding structures. Depending on its tree, both insurance service providers are expected to cover half the damage each.

A person is not covered if the cause of the tree falling was due to negligence, such as lack of maintenance and care. If a tree falls from your neighbor's side onto your property due to unavoidable circumstances, it is up to you to contact a tree care company for removal. Contact us today and schedule an appointment with the experts at Southern Star Tree for top-notch tree service.