Skip to content 
Trees enhance your home’s value but can become hazards if weak or diseased. Many ask: Does homeowners insurance cover preventative tree removal? In most cases, no—but if a tree poses an immediate threat, homeowners insurance cover preventative tree removal might apply. Understanding your policy helps determine when coverage kicks in.
Understanding Homeowners Insurance and Tree Removal
What is Homeowners Insurance?
Homeowners insurance is designed to protect you from unexpected damage to your property. It covers certain perils like fire, storms, and vandalism, but coverage varies based on your policy. Understanding your coverage limits can help you avoid unexpected expenses.
How Does Tree Removal Factor into Insurance Coverage?
In most of the cases, insurance only covers tree removal if a tree has already fallen and caused damage to a covered structure, like your home, garage, or fence. Preventative removal—cutting down a tree before it falls—is usually considered a maintenance issue, which is the homeowner’s responsibility.
When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Tree Removal?
Insurance may pay for tree removal if:
- A storm knocks down a tree, causing damage to your home, fence, or another insured structure.
- A tree falls due to vandalism or an accident, such as a car crashing into it.
- A fallen tree blocks your driveway or a handicapped-accessible path, even if no structural damage occurs.
When Is Preventative Tree Removal Not Covered?
Your insurance likely won’t cover:
- Healthy trees that you remove for personal reasons.
- Cutting down a tree before a storm, even if you think it’s a risk.
- Trees that pose a threat but haven’t fallen yet—these are considered a maintenance issue.
How to Determine if Your Tree Removal is Covered?
- Assess the tree’s condition—is it dead, dying, or at risk of falling?
- Contact your insurance provider for clarification on your policy.
- Read your policy carefully to understand exclusions.
What About Tree Maintenance?
Homeowners are responsible for tree maintenance, including pruning, trimming, and checking for diseases. Neglecting this can lead to denied claims if a tree falls due to poor upkeep.
How to File a Tree Removal Claim?
- Document the damage with photos.
- Call your insurance company to report the issue.
- Meet with an adjuster for inspection.
- Get quotes from tree removal companies.
- Follow up on your claim until it’s processed.
The Cost of Tree Removal Without Insurance Coverage
- Small tree removal: $150–$500
- Medium tree removal: $500–$1,500
- Large tree removal: $1,500–$3,000+
Hiring an arborist for regular tree maintenance can help avoid costly removals.
Can Additional Insurance Cover Preventative Tree Removal?
Some insurers offer riders or endorsements that may cover tree maintenance, but they’re rare. If trees are a major concern, discuss extended coverage options with your provider.
How to Prevent Tree-Related Damage Before a Storm?
- Inspect trees for cracks, dead limbs, or leaning trunks.
- Hire a certified arborist to assess risky trees.
- Prune branches before storm season to prevent breakage.
Conclusion
While homeowners insurance covers tree removal in some cases, it won’t pay for preventative removal. Regular tree maintenance is essential to avoid costly damage. If you’re unsure about coverage, check with your insurer and review your policy.
FAQs
Will insurance cover a tree that is leaning dangerously?
Not usually—unless it falls and causes damage.
What if my neighbor’s tree falls on my house?
Your insurance may cover the damage, but your neighbor could be liable if they neglected the tree.
Can I get insurance to cover tree maintenance?
Some insurers offer add-ons, but standard policies don’t cover routine tree care.
What is the best way to prevent tree damage before a storm?
Regular inspections, pruning, and removing dead trees can minimize risks.
