When A Tree Falls Into Your Home — Will Your Homeowners Cover It?
Many standard homeowners insurance policies don't cover flood damage, but will the policy cover the damage caused when a tree falls and hits your home? Here, you'll find the answers to a few questions you likely have if a tree has fallen onto your home.
Will the damage be covered?
In most cases, standard homeowners insurance policies do cover the cost of repairs due to fallen trees. Oftentimes, you'll need to pay nothing more than the deductible set on your policy to get all of the repairs completed.
Will filing the claim cause premiums to increase?
Anytime you file a claim with your insurance provider, there is a chance that your premiums will increase. So, if the damage is minor and costs close to the deductible, you may want to complete the repairs without filing a claim.
Is the removal of fallen trees covered?
If the tree hasn't hit the home or an outbuilding, the chances of the policy covering the removal of a fallen tree on your property are minimal. If there is damage to the home or another building on the property, removal may be covered — you'll have to check with your provider to be sure.
What if a tree falls on a vehicle parked on the property?
No. Your auto insurance policy should cover the cost of repairs or replacement of vehicles damaged by fallen trees. If the tree falls on the vehicle of someone who is visiting, their insurance company may file a claim with your homeowners insurance provider to cover the cost of repairs.
What if the tree was not on your property before it fell?
In some cases, you may be able to file a claim against the neighbor who owns the property where the tree was standing. The problem lies in having to prove that the owner knew that the tree was a risk and did nothing to resolve it. This can become a complicated and very drawn-out process to get through filing the claim and actually getting the money you need to make repairs.
The best way to know what your standard homeowners insurance policy covers is to discuss it thoroughly with your agent. He or she will answer any of the questions that you have before you file a claim or purchase your policy. Knowing that you're protected in the event that a tree falls into your home is worth the little that it will cost to insure your home. For more information, contact a company like the Kyle Insurance group LLC.
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