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Address: 389 Niles Cortland Rd. NE, Warren, OH 44484
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Phone: (330) 856-6244
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Email: info@plattinsurance.com
What should I do?
And other tree related information.
It’s beautiful to live in a tree-filled neighborhood, and in Northeast Ohio, there are plenty! But trees are one of the most common and frustrating causes of claims. During a windstorm or big weather event you can’t really control where a tree might fall, which is why we often get the question…
If my neighbor’s tree falls on my house, am I responsible?
In most circumstances, the answer is yes. If a tree or other debris falls and damages your property, it is your responsibility. If it falls on your house, you would need to file a claim under your home insurance and if it falls on your car you would need to file a claim under your auto insurance. This is especially true if the tree fell due to a natural disaster, such as a severe storm or large weather event.
However, if the tree fell because it was not properly maintained, or if it was known to be a hazard, then the responsibility may lie with the owner of the tree. In our experience, we’ve found that this can be difficult to prove and would require having some documentation that you notified your neighbor of the failing tree, for instance through a certified letter.
If a tree falls on your house, you should first contact your homeowner’s insurance company to report the damage. Most standard home policies provide coverage for removal of the tree from your property and to repair any damage the tree may have caused.
Now, if a tree fell and did not cause damage to property, for instance, if it fell in the middle of your yard or a large field, not all insurance policies will provide coverage. You would need to show that the tree is blocking entrance to the home or driveway or creating some type of safety concern in order to file a claim.
As always, it’s important to review your home insurance policy and speak with an independent insurance agent to understand the specific coverage options and limitations related to trees on your property.