Fallen Tree Insurance Claims: A Roanoke Valley Guide

When a tree comes down in a storm, the first question after safety is usually who pays. The answer depends on your policy, what the tree hit and why it fell. This guide summarizes general information published by the Insurance Information Institute (III) and insurers. It is not legal or insurance advice; read your policy and talk to your agent or insurer.

If a tree hits your house or another insured structure

According to III, if a tree hits your home or another insured structure such as a detached garage, a standard homeowners policy covers the damage to the structure and its contents, including when the tree was felled by wind or hail. III also notes that it generally does not matter whether you own the tree: if it lands on your home, you file with your own insurer. Your deductible applies.

Removal of the tree itself

III says that if a tree hits an insured structure, the policy generally also covers the cost of removing the tree, up to about $500 to $1,000 depending on the insurer and policy. Some policies set a per-tree amount within a per-event cap. Large removals, especially those needing cranes, can cost more than that, so the difference may be yours to pay. Our cost by size guide gives published ranges.

If the tree did not hit anything

III says that if a fallen tree did not hit an insured structure, there is generally no coverage for debris removal, though some insurers may pay to remove a tree blocking a driveway or a ramp designed to assist a person with a disability. Travelers' published FAQ describes similar terms. Check your policy.

Damage to trees and shrubs themselves

III notes that standard policies cover trees and shrubs for certain causes such as fire, lightning, theft, vandalism and vehicles not owned by the resident, usually with limits around $500 per tree, shrub or plant. Wind is typically not among those causes for the tree itself.

Step-by-step after a tree falls

1. Get safe. Leave damaged rooms, stay away from downed wires, and call the utility and 911 if lines are involved.
2. Photograph everything before cleanup: the tree, the root plate or break point, the damage, and any wider views.
3. Call your insurer to open the claim and ask what they need, including whether they want to inspect before removal.
4. Prevent further damage. Policies typically expect reasonable steps such as tarping, and an emergency crew can remove the weight from the roof. Keep receipts.
5. Get an itemized estimate that separates removal from the structure, removal of the rest of the tree, stump grinding and hauling. Insurers often treat these differently.
6. Keep records of all communications and invoices.

Neighbor trees

Liability between neighbors depends on the facts, such as whether a tree was visibly dead or hazardous beforehand. Talk to your insurer first; for disputes, consult a Virginia attorney. A documented risk assessment of a worrying tree before a storm can be useful later.

Reduce the chance of a claim

Dead trees and limbs near the house are the most preventable source of storm claims. See our storm prep checklist, and call (540) 904-1819 for emergency removal.

Sources

• Insurance Information Institute, If a tree falls on your house, are you covered?: https://www.iii.org/article/if-a-tree-falls-on-your-house-are-you-covered
• III press release on fallen trees: https://www.iii.org/press-release/iii-provides-information-on-insurance-for-fallen-trees-072210
• Travelers, Frequently Asked Questions About Fallen Trees: https://www.travelers.com/claims/file-claim/what-if-fallen-tree-faq

Common questions