When a tree falls on a house, the first thing most homeowners wonder is whether their insurance will cover the damage. Fortunately, they do, and the coverage inclusions for tree damage are clear. If a tree falls on a home or other insured property structure, a homeowners insurance policy provides coverage for the structure itself and the items inside of it. This type of coverage includes trees that fall due to hail, lightning or wind.

Coverage for Tree Damage From Trees on Other Properties

You do not need to own the tree for the company to approve a claim. For example, if a neighbor’s tree falls over the property line onto your home, your policy will cover the damage. The affected homeowner must simply file a claim with his or her insurance company. Trees, branches and shrubbery have a tendency to become hazardous objects during storms. Insurance companies are aware of this fact. This is why they do not conduct extensive investigations to figure out exactly where the offending tree or shrub came from. Their duty is to assess the damage, figure out the reimbursement cost and issue a check.

In some cases, the insurance company may try to collect money from a neighbor’s insurer. This process is known as subrogation. It is usually initiated when the insurance company feels that the offending tree was not kept well. However, this is the insurance company’s job. If the company proves that your neighbor poorly maintained the tree, you may receive reimbursement for the deductible.

Coverage for Cost of Removal

If a tree falls on a home or insured structure, there is also coverage for the cost to remove the tree. This amount is usually between $500 and $1,000- not a whole lot. Reimbursement numbers may vary from one insurance company to another. The amount also varies depending on the type of policy chosen. However, if a tree does not affect a home or structure, there is usually no reimbursement for damage or removal. Some insurance companies may extend special coverage for trees blocking driveways or handicapped ramps.

Coverages for Tree Damage Due to Additional Causes

In addition to the previous coverage inclusions, standard homeowners insurance policies allow protection for tree damage due to theft, explosion, fire, lightning, vandalism, malicious mischief and vehicles owned by others. However,  the company usually limits coverage to a small percentage of the amount of insurance on the home or other property structures. As a rule, most insurers place a limit of $500 for any shrub, plant or tree. Shrubbery and trees grown for business purposes require special business insurance policies. To learn more about this type of coverage, discuss the options with your favorite insurance agent.