My Neighbor’s Tree Fell on My House. Who is Responsible?
My Neighbor’s Tree Fell on My House. Who is Responsible?
Trees and large limbs can fall on a neighbors house due to a variety of circumstances, the vast majority of which involve wind. But trees and limbs can also cause damage if they fall due to ice, heavy wet snow, poor maintenance, extremely wet ground conditions or even disease. Trees have even fallen on homes when they were being cut down, either by an amateur or a professional.
Most underestimate the weight of a fallen tree or even large limbs. They can cause severe damage, serious injury and even death. So if a neighbor’s tree falls on your house and causes damage, who is responsible?
Trees Fallen by High Winds
If a neighbors tree falls on your home due to the high winds of a storm like a thunderstorm, hurricane or tornado, your insurance company is responsible for the damage. You should contact them to file a claim. This is what is generally referred to as “an act of God”.
Trees Known to Be Unhealthy
Homeowners’ have a responsibility to keep their property in safe repair. This includes their trees. If a neighbor has a tree on their property that is known to be unhealthy, they have a responsibility to manage it properly. If that tree should fall by light winds or in a storm that could be considered mild, they could be held responsible. You should still file a claim with your insurance company and let them proceed from there.
Trees Intentionally Cut Down
What happens when a neighbor is having a tree cut down and it accidentally falls on your home? This will depend on who is cutting down the tree. If it is being cut professionally, the tree removal company would likely be held responsible. On the other hand, if an inexperienced neighbor is cutting down a tree on his own or trimming large limbs that damage your home, he will be held responsible.
In any of the above situations, it is always best to notify your insurance company of any damage to your home and how it occurred. If you were not responsible, it will not likely result in any major increase to your homeowners’ insurance rates.
Cutting down a large tree on your own, in your own yard, is seldom a good idea. Keeping your homeowners’ insurance up-to-date, however, is always a good one. When you contact one of our independent insurance professionals, they can review your present policy and make you aware of any gaps in coverage. You can then decide whether your coverage is sufficient or not. If you decide to make changes, they can get quotes from multiple companies, where again, the choice is yours. Contact us today to get your free homeowners’ insurance review and quote.
Do you have questions about your insurance? Find an insurance agent near you with our Agent Finder
Search All Blogs
Search All Blogs
Read More Blogs
Beyond Pizza and Promises: Recognizing When It’s Time to Hire Professional Movers
Time to call the pros? Learn when pizza and beer just won’t cut it for your next move.
Mapping Our Roots: Uncovering the Stories Behind American City Names
City names revealed! Discover the historical, religious, and geographical influences behind the monikers of American cities.
The Agile Approach: Why Short, Focused Plans Are Overtaking the Mammoth Business Blueprint
Ditch the doorstop plan! Discover why concise, adaptable strategies are the new gold standard for business success.
Embracing Tomorrow: The Practical Power of Planning for Life’s Only Certainty
Face the future with confidence: Understand how planning for life’s only certainty with life insurance can provide lasting security.
Steering Your Savings: Taking Control of Your Car Insurance Rates
You’re in the driver’s seat! Learn how your credit, driving habits, vehicle choice, and smart shopping can lower your car insurance costs.
Underfoot Upgrade: Transforming Your Garage Floor from Forgotten to Fantastic
Don’t ignore your garage floor! Discover easy and impactful ways to upgrade this often-neglected area of your home.
Unwrapping the Wiener: A Deep Dive into the History and Lore of the Hot Dog
Beyond the bun: Discover the surprising history, varieties, and enduring appeal of America’s favorite tubular treat.
The Untapped Power of Collaboration: Why Asking for Help Fuels Business Success
Stop going it alone! Discover how leveraging the expertise of others can relieve pressure and drive your business forward.
Navigating the Grandparenting Journey: Understanding Today’s Families
Grandparenting today: Learn key shifts in family dynamics to build stronger connections with your children and grandchildren.
Mapping Our Paths: The Fascinating Reasons Behind Our Road Networks
The story behind the asphalt: Explore the geographical, historical, and planning influences that shaped our modern road systems.