When a Tree Falls Into Your Yard…Do You Clean It Up?
August 23, 2017
Imagine getting ready to head to work, coffee in hand, when you are confronted with the shocking surprise of a downed tree in your yard. Or, maybe said tree landed perfectly on top of your shiny new car. What do you do?
Prevent it before it happens. Tree upkeep is important, not only for the health of the tree (because sick, fragile trees are not your friend), but because regular trimming and pruning can prevent you from being held liable for your tree ruining your neighbor’s day. Falling branches can ruin your day, too. Emergency room visits and/or being sued can put a serious dent in your wallet.
All too often, the aftermath of a neighbor's weekly leaf blowing session ends up next door, and a person is left wondering who should clean them up. If the leaves are on your property, they are your responsibility. If your neighbor’s tree falls into your yard and damages any property, your homeowner’s insurance or comprehensive auto insurance will usually cover some of the cost.
If a fallen tree comes down to a lawsuit, courts look at premise liability and a person's reasonable standard of care. If they maintained the tree, they're usually not liable. Weather is considered an Act of God, so if a hurricane or tornado hits, there’s no one to blame but Mother Nature.
A typical insurance payout for tree removal can range from $500 to $1000, but costs can go higher. Since insurance companies can be a little tight handing out cash, it may be a good idea to prepare yourself for the extra costs of maintenance and last minute emergencies.
Prevent it before it happens. Tree upkeep is important, not only for the health of the tree (because sick, fragile trees are not your friend), but because regular trimming and pruning can prevent you from being held liable for your tree ruining your neighbor’s day. Falling branches can ruin your day, too. Emergency room visits and/or being sued can put a serious dent in your wallet.
All too often, the aftermath of a neighbor's weekly leaf blowing session ends up next door, and a person is left wondering who should clean them up. If the leaves are on your property, they are your responsibility. If your neighbor’s tree falls into your yard and damages any property, your homeowner’s insurance or comprehensive auto insurance will usually cover some of the cost.
If a fallen tree comes down to a lawsuit, courts look at premise liability and a person's reasonable standard of care. If they maintained the tree, they're usually not liable. Weather is considered an Act of God, so if a hurricane or tornado hits, there’s no one to blame but Mother Nature.
A typical insurance payout for tree removal can range from $500 to $1000, but costs can go higher. Since insurance companies can be a little tight handing out cash, it may be a good idea to prepare yourself for the extra costs of maintenance and last minute emergencies.
