If a tree falls on your house, does homeowner’s insurance cover it? That is a question that many people ask when they are faced with a downed tree. The answer is not always straightforward, but in most cases, homeowner’s insurance will cover the cost of removing a fallen tree from your property. Keep reading to learn more about what is covered under homeowner’s insurance and how to file a claim if you need to remove a tree from your property.
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What Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover When A Tree Falls?
Homeowner’s insurance typically covers damage caused by falling trees, limbs, or branches if the tree falls onto your property. This coverage is often limited to a certain amount, so it’s important to check with your insurance provider to see what is included in your policy.
In most cases, the insurer will only cover the cost of removing the tree or limb from your property. If the tree fall causes damage to your home, additional coverage may be required to repair the damages. In some cases, homeowner’s insurance may also cover the cost of replacing a damaged tree. However, this coverage is typically only available if the tree was healthy and died as a result of the accident. As with any type of insurance, it’s important to read your policy carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered.
Here are some of the common causes that homeowner’s insurance will be covered for tree removal if it falls on your property:
– A storm, high winds, hail, or ice caused the tree to fall
– The tree was struck by lightning
– The tree was damaged by fire
– The tree was healthy and died as a result of the accident
When Does Homeowner’s Insurance Not Cover Tree Removal?
Most homeowners insurance policies will cover damage caused by a falling tree, but there are some exceptions. For example, if the tree was already dead or dying when it fell, the insurance company may refuse to pay for the damage. In addition, if the tree was not properly maintained and fell as a result of neglect, the insurance company may also deny coverage. To be eligible for reimbursement, it is important to have a policy that specifically covers falling trees. Even then, there may be some restrictions on what is covered. As always, it is important to read your policy carefully to make sure you understand what is and is not covered.
One common exclusion is damage caused by trees. If a tree on your property falls and damages your home or other property, your homeowner’s insurance will not pay for the repairs. Similarly, if a tree falls on your car, your auto insurance will cover the damages, not your homeowner’s insurance. There are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, if a tree falls due to the negligence of your neighbor (such as if they fail to properly maintain their trees), you may be able to recover damages under their liability insurance policy.
Here are some of the common causes that homeowner’s insurance will NOT be covered for tree removal if it falls on your property:
– The tree was diseased
– The tree was uprooted by flooding
– The tree falls due to a lack of maintenance
– The tree was damaged caused by Earth’s movement (for example landslides, sinkholes, and hurricanes)
How To File A Claim For Tree Removal
Here are the steps on how you can file a claim on tree removal:
1. Call your insurance company as soon as possible.
Be sure to have your policy number handy when you call. The insurance company will need this information to process your claim.
If the tree has caused damage to your home, make sure to take photos of the damage before you begin making any repairs. This will help document the extent of the damage for your insurance claim.
Be sure to check with the insurance company about what can be claimed and what can’t be claimed. This will help you understand what you will need to pay for out of your pocket.
2. Report the fallen tree and damages to your local authorities.
Your insurance company will likely require a police report or other documentation from the authorities to process your claim.
Once you have reported the fallen tree, do not attempt to remove it yourself unless it is safe to do so. If the tree has caused damage to power lines or gas lines, wait for a professional to remove it to avoid further damage.
If the tree has fallen on your car, you will need to file a separate claim with your auto insurance company.
3. Get an estimate for tree removal and repairs.
If the tree has caused damage to your home, you will need to get an estimate for the repairs from a licensed contractor. Be sure to keep all receipts and documentation of the damages and repairs for your insurance company.
The insurance company will likely send an adjuster to assess the damages and provide their own estimate. If you disagree with the insurance company’s estimate, you can ask them to send another adjuster.
Once you have an estimate, your insurance company will likely issue a check for the repairs. If the cost of the repairs is less than your deductible, you will be responsible for paying out of pocket.
4. Submit a claim form to your insurance company.
Your insurance company will likely have a claim form that needs to be completed and submitted. Be sure to include all documentation of the damages, repairs, and costs.
It is important to keep in mind that each insurance company has its own process for handling claims. Be sure to follow their specific instructions to ensure that your
5. Wait for approval or denial of the claim.
The insurance company will review your claim and all documentation to determine if the damages are covered under your policy. If the claim is approved, you will receive a check for the repairs. If the claim is denied, the insurance company will send you a letter explaining why the damages are not covered.
Appealing a denied claim
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The first step is to write a letter to the insurance company explaining why you believe the denial is wrong. Include any new evidence or documentation that was not included in your original claim.
The insurance company will review your appeal and make a final decision. If the appeal is denied, you can file a complaint with your state’s insurance commissioner.
6. If approved, schedule tree removal and repairs.
Once you have received approval for your claim, you can schedule the tree removal and repairs. Be sure to keep all receipts and documentation of the work done for your records.
If you have any questions about Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Tree Removal, be sure to contact your insurance company or agent. They will be able to help you understand your policy and what is covered.
Conclusion
Not all homeowner’s insurance policy is the same. It is important to understand what your policy covers and doesn’t cover. If you have any questions, be sure to contact your insurance company or agent for more information.