What is what to do when a tree falls on your property?

Here's some information about what to do when a tree falls on your property:

When a tree falls on your property, your immediate priorities should be safety and documentation.

1. Safety First:

   • Ensure everyone is safe and accounted for.
   • Stay away from the fallen tree, especially if it's near power lines. Assume all power lines are live. Call your electricity provider immediately to report downed lines.
   • If the tree has fallen on your house or other structure, evacuate if necessary and contact the fire department or emergency services to assess the structural integrity.

2. Document the Damage:

   • Take photos and videos of the fallen tree and any damage it has caused to your property. This will be crucial for insurance claims. Include images from multiple angles and distances.
   • Note the date, time, and weather conditions at the time of the tree fall.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company:

   • Report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and may send an adjuster to assess the damage.
   • Be prepared to provide your policy information and the documentation you collected.
   • Understand your policy's coverage for tree removal and property damage. Specifically, determine if the policy covers tree removal, damage repair, and associated expenses.

4. Determine Responsibility:

   • If the tree came from your neighbor's property, your insurance company will typically work with your neighbor's insurance company to determine liability. Negligence on the neighbor's part (e.g., failing to maintain a clearly diseased or dangerous tree that they were aware of) may shift responsibility.
   • If the tree was healthy and fell due to a natural event like a storm, your insurance will likely cover the damage, regardless of where the tree originated.
   • Consult with a lawyer if determining responsibility becomes complex or contentious.

5. Tree Removal:

   • Once you have the go-ahead from your insurance company, you can arrange for tree removal.
   • Hire a qualified and insured arborist or tree removal service. Do not attempt to remove a large tree yourself, especially if it's near power lines or structures.
   • Get multiple quotes to ensure you are getting a fair price.

6. Property Repair:

   • After the tree is removed, assess the damage to your property and begin the repair process.
   • Obtain estimates from reputable contractors for any necessary repairs.
   • Work closely with your insurance company to ensure the repairs are covered under your policy.

7. Preventative Measures:

   • After the incident, consider having all trees on your property inspected by an arborist to identify any potential hazards.
   • Take steps to maintain your trees properly, including pruning and removal of dead or diseased branches.

In summary: ensure Safety first, Document%20the%20damage, contact your Insurance%20Company, and hire a Qualified%20Arborist for removal.