If a Tree Falls on Your House, Will Insurance Cover It?

Homeowner’s insurance policies offer financial protection against unexpected property damage. When a tree falls, understanding your policy is important for managing potential repair costs. Property insurance generally covers sudden and accidental damage to your dwelling and other structures.

Covered Causes of Loss

Homeowners insurance policies typically cover damage from a fallen tree when the incident results from a “covered peril.” This means the cause of the tree falling, not just the fall itself, determines coverage. Common covered perils include windstorms, lightning strikes, and the weight of ice, snow, or sleet. If a healthy tree falls due to one of these events, your policy likely covers damage to your home or other insured structures.

The policy generally protects against damage to the main dwelling and any attached structures. It also extends to other structures on your property, such as detached garages or sheds, if hit by a tree due to a covered event. This coverage applies regardless of whether the tree originated from your property or a neighbor’s, provided the cause was a covered peril.

Situations Not Covered

Not all instances of tree damage are covered by standard homeowners insurance. Policies generally do not provide coverage for damage resulting from homeowner negligence. For example, if a tree was visibly dead, diseased, or rotting, and the homeowner failed to remove it, a claim for damage caused by its fall might be denied. This is considered a maintenance issue.

Coverage for debris removal is usually limited if the fallen tree does not damage an insured structure. If a tree simply falls in your yard without hitting your house, garage, or fence, your policy might not cover the cost of its removal. Policies are generally designed to cover unforeseen accidents, not issues arising from a lack of property upkeep.

Making a Claim

When a tree falls on your property and causes damage, first ensure everyone’s safety. Check for downed power lines and gas leaks, contacting emergency services or utility companies if necessary. Once safe, document the damage extensively using photos and videos. This visual evidence is crucial for your insurance claim.

Take immediate steps to prevent further damage to your property, such as covering broken windows or exposed roof sections with tarps. Keep detailed records and receipts for any temporary repairs, as these costs may be reimbursable. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the incident and initiate the claims process. Provide a clear description of the damage and request a claim number for future reference.

Your insurer will assign an adjuster to inspect the damage. Cooperate fully with the adjuster and provide all requested documentation, including photos and repair estimates. Maintaining a log of all communications with your insurance company, including dates and names, can be beneficial throughout the claims process.

Related Coverages and Costs

Homeowners insurance policies include provisions for debris removal, but specific limits apply. If a fallen tree damages a covered structure, the policy generally covers the cost of removing the tree and hauling away the debris. Sub-limits for debris removal often apply, such as a maximum amount per tree or incident, or a percentage of your dwelling coverage.

Damage to other structures on your property, such as fences, sheds, or detached garages, is typically covered. This coverage helps pay for repairs or replacement if these structures are damaged by a fallen tree due to a covered peril. The limits for other structures are usually a percentage of your main dwelling coverage.

Your policy’s deductible applies to any claim for fallen tree damage. This is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage begins. Deductibles vary and are chosen when the policy is purchased or renewed. Choosing a higher deductible often results in lower annual premiums, but it means a greater initial expense in the event of a claim.