So your neighbor’s tree falls into your yard. Who is responsible for removing the tree and for the damage that it caused? For the most part homeowners are responsible for what falls into their own yard. Your homeowners insurance will typically cover the cost of removing the tree from your property and fixing the damage that it caused.

The same goes for if a tree from your property falls into a neighbor’s yard. They should file a claim with their insurance company.

If a tree does happen to fall on your house, make sure you take photos and then call your claims adjuster. They will come out and evaluate the damage and then they will explain how your insurance will work. (It is recommended to call the claims adjuster before you contract to have the tree removed.)

There are ways to help prevent tree damage. Start for looking to signs of distress in trees, such as, dead limbs, cracks in the trunk or big limbs, or branches that are close to a house or power line. If there is mushroom growth on the roots or bark this can mean trouble also.  You should always be concerned about the health of your trees. Make sure to get large trees trimmed regularly.