Tree Damage and Insurance: Myths That Could Cost You

Tree damage is expensive, unpredictable, and full of surprises—usually the bad kind. Many homeowners assume their insurance will cover everything, only to get hit with a nasty reality check. The best way to avoid that headache? Get ahead of the problem.

Tree Damage and Insurance: Myths That Could Cost You

Every year, trees that fall cause over $1 billion in property damage across the U.S. That’s a billion—with a B. And yet, numerous homeowners are blindsided when they realize their insurance doesn’t cover the destruction.

It’s a common misconception: If a tree damages your home, your insurer will step in and write a check. Sometimes that’s true. Other times? Not so much. Policies have fine print, exclusions, and loopholes that can leave you footing the bill.

By knowing the facts before the next storm rolls in, you can better protect yourself. Let’s break down the biggest myths about tree damage and insurance—so you can be prepared.

Myth #1: Home Insurance Covers Any Fallen Tree

This isn’t always the case. Insurance may cover damage from a fallen tree, but only under specific circumstances.

If a strong storm knocks down a healthy tree and it damages your home, your policy will likely cover the repairs. However, if the tree was already dead, diseased, or leaning dangerously—and you failed to address it—your insurance company might reject the claim.

The reason? Homeowners are responsible for nurturing their property, including trees. If the damage could have been prevented with proper upkeep, the cost may fall on you.

Myth #2: If My Neighbor’s Tree Falls on My Property, They Have to Pay

It sounds reasonable—their tree, their responsibility. But that’s not how insurance typically works.

If a storm causes your neighbor’s tree to fall on your house, fence, or car, it’s your homeowners insurance that will likely cover the damage. The only way your neighbor’s policy kicks in is if they were negligent—like if the tree was clearly rotting and they ignored requests to remove it.

Want to protect yourself? If you notice a risky tree next door, document it. Send a polite written request asking them to take care of it. That way, if it falls, you have proof that you tried to prevent the problem.

Myth #3: Insurance Pays for Tree Removal No Matter What

This catches a lot of people off guard.

If a tree lands on your home, garage, or driveway, most insurance policies cover removal. But if it just falls in your yard and doesn’t hit anything? You’re probably paying out of pocket.

Some policies offer additional debris removal coverage. If you have a lot of trees on your property, it’s worth looking into.

Myth #4: Cutting Down Big Trees Is the Best Way to Prevent Damage

Some people think the best way to prevent tree damage is to cut down every large tree. That’s not always the right call. A strong, healthy tree can actually protect your property by blocking wind and keeping the soil in place during heavy rain.

Instead of removing trees that don’t pose a threat, focus on proper care. Trim branches regularly to prevent weak limbs from falling. Watch for signs of disease or decay that could make a tree unstable. Taking care of trees the right way makes your property safer while keeping the landscape looking great.

Myth #5: Filing a Claim Will Always Raise My Insurance Rates

This one depends on the situation.

If a storm knocks down a tree and damages your property, most insurance companies don’t see that as your fault. In many cases, your rates won’t go up.

But if the insurer finds that you ignored an obvious hazard—like a rotting tree leaning toward your home—that could be considered negligence. In that case, your rates might rise, or worse, your policy could be canceled.

Myth #6: Homeowners Insurance Covers Any Tree-Related Damage

Not necessarily. Coverage depends on where the damage happens.

• If a tree falls on your house → Covered.

• If a tree crushes your fence → Maybe. Some policies cover fences, others don’t.

• If a tree lands on your car → Not covered under home insurance. That falls under your auto insurance’s comprehensive coverage.

The takeaway? Check your policy before disaster strikes.

Avoid Costly Mistakes Before It’s Too Late

You can’t stop a raging storm, but you can prevent a disaster. A small investment in maintenance today can prevent costly repairs down the road.

✔ Check your trees often Dead limbs, deep cracks, or signs of rot? Don’t ignore them.

✔ Trim risky branches A branch hanging over your house or driveway is trouble waiting to strike. Take action now—trim it before it becomes a costly problem.

✔ Take out unstable trees If a tree looks like it’s ready to go, don’t wait—remove it before it falls.

✔ Understand your policy Dig into the details—what’s covered and what’s not? Don’t wait until after a storm to find out where you stand.

Final Thoughts

Tree damage is expensive, unpredictable, and full of surprises—usually the bad kind. Many homeowners assume their insurance will cover everything, only to get hit with a nasty reality check. The best way to avoid that headache? Get ahead of the problem.

Take care of your trees before they become a liability. Trim weak branches, watch for signs of disease, and remove risky trees while you still have a choice. Remember to check your insurance policy. Know exactly what’s covered now, so you’re not scrambling for answers later.

Been putting off tree maintenance? Don’t wait. Once a tree comes crashing down, there’s no hitting rewind.