Who is responsible for fallen tree removal? This question often arises when property owners are left to figure out how to handle an unexpected situation when a tree falls onto another person’s land.
Read on for some information about how issues of fallen tree removal often play out and some of the things to consider. As the top tree service in Niceville, Backridge Tree Service is here to help with tree removal and all tree maintenance situations.
Florida Real Estate Law Covers Trees
Trees are considered part of the property they grow on, and state and local laws and ordinances establish specific rules about tree ownership and liability. Homeowners’ association rules can also directly impact tree removal and maintenance.
A tree is considered the property of the landowner where its trunk and roots are planted in the ground. Trees that sit directly on a property line can be considered the joint property of the two neighboring owners.
State law in Florida creates different standards for liability to neighbors for fallen trees based on the tree’s health.
Of course, this determination can be subjective. If a tree was damaged and reasonably considered unsafe or unstable when it fell, the owner can be liable for damages and the costs of removal.
If the tree was healthy and fell because of extreme weather, the owner of the land on which the tree fell can have responsibility for tree removal. This issue can require a legal opinion for further clarification.
Neighbors can agree on how to divide the costs, but in the absence of an agreement, the health of the tree before it fell becomes the focal point.
Not sure who is responsible for fallen tree removal? Call us.
Bring Your Homeowners Insurance Carrier on Board
Homeowners insurance often covers damage to structures or personal property caused by falling trees. In some cases, auto insurance can apply to situations where a tree damages a covered vehicle.
Report any expected covered loss from a fallen tree to your insurance carriers. If a neighbor’s tree impacts your property or if your tree causes damage to their property, report the incident immediately. Your carrier may determine coverage and liability to work out a solution with your neighbor and their insurance carrier.
Hire Backridge Tree Service If You Are Responsible for Removal
If you agree or it is determined you must cover the cost of removing a fallen tree, you should hire our team of experts to protect you from the risk of liability. If you attempt to do the work on your own, you could be responsible for any damage caused by the removal, and your insurance carrier may refuse to cover that claim.
Call Backridge Tree Service for Professional Tree Care in Niceville
If you have questions about who is responsible for fallen tree removal, how to prevent trees from falling on a house, or any other tree maintenance question, call on experts at Backridge Tree Service for expert assistance and top customer service in Niceville or around the Emerald Coast.
Call Backridge Tree Service today at (850) 240-2829 for further assistance and to schedule service.