Fallen trees, and what to know about protection, insurance



As the Bay Area dries out from a parade of atmospheric rivers, leaving hundreds of downed trees in their wake, a new set of questions are facing residents: How can trees be protected and risks of damage and danger to life and property reduced? When the damage is already done, who pays?

With so many losses, just finding help is a challenge. We asked some experts for insight: Tree Davis, a nonprofit which plants trees in Yolo County; Michal Brower, State Farm Insurance public affairs specialist; and Elizabeth Hartman, spokesperson for Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies.

Q: How can I assess the risk of my trees?

A: Tree care can significantly extend the performance, lifespan and the benefits of trees. Have your trees inspected periodically. Prune overextended or dead branches. Here are signs of trouble: leaning trees, with raised soil on the side of the trunk opposite the lean: cracks extending into the wood on the trunk or major limbs; “conks,” or fungal fruiting bodies on the trunk; separation or falling bark.

Q: My home is damaged by a falling tree. Does insurance cover tree removal?

A: Policies and coverage levels can be different. But if a storm causes a tree to fall then coverage is generally provided to remove the tree from the house, fence, carport or garage and to perform repairs to that property.

There may be coverage limits for tree removal. For instance, Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance companies only pay up to $1,000 for tree removal, regardless of the number of fallen trees, and no more than $500 of this limit will be paid for the removal of any one tree.

Q: What do I need to know about removing a downed tree that has fallen and damaged my property?

A: Your tree removal company should be licensed and bonded. Be sure tarping, if needed, is included in their work or another contractor, so additional damage does not happen through an open roof. Be sure to talk to an insurance specialist for help.

Q: Does insurance cover tree removal, if my home isn’t damaged?

A: If a windstorm causes a tree to fall but it does not damage your property — such as your house, fence, carport or garage — a homeowners policy typically does not cover tree debris removal.

But it might cover the costs if the tree blocks your driveway so that you can’t access your home, or if it blocks a handicapped ramp.

Q: My tree fell on my neighbor’s property. Who is responsible for its removal?



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