Before you spend a fortune on tree removal, it's a good idea to check first if your homeowners insurance would cover it. Home insurance usually does not cover regular tree maintenance, but it may cover damage from trees that occurs during a storm or other covered peril.

How Trees Can Damage Your Property

Even though they add to the aesthetic of your property, trees require regular upkeep and can damage a home in a number of ways, such as:

·         Structure damage: Branches can break off during storms or as a result of rot, posing a risk to structures and vehicles on your property.

·         Root damage: Tree roots can grow beneath foundations, sidewalks, and driveways, causing cracks or uplift. They can also grow into sewer, water, or gas lines.

·         Clogged gutters: Overhanging branches can drop leaves and debris into gutters, causing them to clog and potentially leading to water damage to your roof or siding.

·         Service line damage: Tree branches growing near power or communication lines can interfere with them, causing outages or disrupting internet or phone services.

When Tree Removal is Covered

There are very limited circumstances where tree removal would covered under your homeowners policy.  Generally speaking, tree removal would NOT be covered unless the tree is actually leaning on your house or blocks your egress.  Even when coverage kicks in, the insurance companies typically only removes the tree from the home or your driveway if it is blocked but you would need to pay for the removal of the stump and possibly other expenses.

When Tree Removal is Not Covered

Tree removal for reasons unrelated to covered perils is considered a homeowner's maintenance responsibility. Here are some scenarios when tree removal is often not covered by insurance:

·         Lack of maintenance: If a tree causes damage due to lack of maintenance or failure to address known hazards, insurance typically will not cover the cost of removal. Homeowners are generally responsible for maintaining the trees on their property to prevent foreseeable damage.

·         Healthy tree removal: Home insurance does not cover the removal of healthy trees, whether you want to remove them for aesthetic reasons or to clear space on your property. 

·         Natural causes with no damage: If a tree falls on your property due to natural causes, such as decay, but does not cause damage to insured structures or property, the removal cost won’t be covered.

Preventative Tree Removal

Homeowners policies do not pay for preventative maintenance.  If the insurance company is aware of a hazard and you do not remedy the situation, they will typically non-renew or cancel your poliyc.  Preventing potential damage to trees on your property requires consistent maintenance. Regular pruning, monitoring for signs of decay, and appropriate tree placement can help mitigate these risks.

Final Thoughts

It's essential to review the coverage limitations pertaining to tree removal with your policy or to speak with your insurance provider. Understanding when tree removal is covered by insurance can be crucial for homeowners dealing with the aftermath of natural disasters. By ensuring proper coverage, you can better navigate the complexities of tree-related damage and safeguard your home against potential risks. In addition to reducing the cost of tree removal, homeowners insurance offers peace of mind and financial security.