The numerous powerful storms and tornados in our area have prompted a lot of phone calls to our agency. Scenarios such as “my tree fell on my neighbors fence, house, car, a large tree in my yard was uprooted do I have coverage to remove it or my neighbors tree fell on my house do I have coverage?”
- If your tree falls on your neighbor’s property, you’re not responsible as it’s considered an “act of God”. Unless you knew your tree was damaged and didn’t have it removed, your neighbor will need to report the damage to their insurance carrier.
- If a large tree falls in your yard, you may have some coverage for “tree removal” less your deductible. If it falls on your house or property(outbuilding) you will have coverage for damage to your property and removal of the tree, less your deductible. The deductible is not waived due to a catastrophe such as a tornado though.
- If your neighbor’s tree falls on your property, you will need to report to your insurance company, same reason as in answer #1, “act of God”.
Damage to your auto due to a fallen tree is covered under the comprehensive coverage of your auto policy.
You also will have some coverage for the tree itself if damaged is caused by fire or lightning, but not wind.
Always remember to discuss filing any claim with your insurance specialist. Multiple small claims on your record may jeopardize your insurance account. Insurance carriers now include windstorm, tornadoes, and any weather related claims in their underwriting review of acceptable accounts. You don’t want to use your insurance policy for small claims, save the coverage for major catastrophes.
Please call Mary Lewis at CS&A Insurance if you have questions about homeowner’s coverage and insurance. She can be reached at (615) 435-8300. If you would like more information on CS&A Insurance please visit our website or call 800.999.1109. You can also follow us on Facebook , Twitter and our YouTube Channel.
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