One of the questions homeowners often have after a tree or branch falls on their property is, “Does insurance pay for tree removal or damage?” The answer is “it depends.”
Ultimately, your homeowner’s insurance company is the best resource for determining if insurance will cover damage to your home or property, including fences, sheds, garages, and other structures.
In Virginia, State Corporation Commission Rule “14VAC5-342-40 Mandatory property coverages” states in part, “D. Insurers shall provide coverage for the expenses incurred for the removal of debris of covered property damaged by a covered cause of loss and the expense for the removal of fallen trees that damage covered property.”
Part of the “it depends” nature of tree damage insurance claims is that some insurance policies specify why the tree fell – was it from a storm or wind event? Was the tree on your property or a neighbor’s? Did the tree fall because it is dead or already damaged?
It’s important to understand your policy details and where exclusions may apply to state regulations. For example, Allstate’s FAQs state, “…homeowners insurance usually won’t cover loss or damage caused by negligence or a maintenance-related issue. So, if the tree was rotting and ready to fall before the storm, homeowners insurance likely would not cover the damage the tree caused to your home.”
So, what does all this mean as a homeowner? First, it’s always better to take care of dangerous trees on your terms and at your convenience. Calling a licensed and insured professional tree removal company, like Arbor Experts, lets you be sure the job is done correctly, without the stress of an emergency situation. The time to deal with problem trees is before they cause damage to your property.
In the unfortunate event you experience damage, call a reliable, reputable company like Arbor Experts. Storms bring inexperienced or unlicensed tree removal “companies” to the area, and in stressful times, it’s hard to know if the company is legitimate and will take care of your property. Once you pay them, they are gone, and you have no recourse if you need additional help or have an issue. Arbor Experts is an experienced local company that exceeds the requirements of homeowners insurance companies, and we provide photographs and documentation to support an insurance claim. Pro tip – take “before” photos of the trees around your property before any major storms, in case you need them for insurance purposes.
If you’re not sure if a tree is a potential danger to your property, give us a call for a free assessment and quote for tree or branch removal. You will have peace of mind and comfort that you have taken preventive steps to protect your home and property.
