Storms, high winds, heavy snow and mature trees are a normal part of life in eastern Massachusetts. When a tree falls or begins to lean, many homeowners are unsure what their insurance will pay for. As an independent agency serving Canton, Sharon, Norwood, Walpole, Stoughton and nearby towns, we receive tree-related questions constantly. This guide explains what is covered, what is not, and how to protect yourself before the next storm.
In most cases, yes. If a tree falls onto your home due to a covered peril such as windstorm, lightning, fire, heavy snow or ice, your homeowners insurance will typically pay for:
The cause of the loss is important. For example:
This is the most common point of confusion. If your neighbor's tree falls onto your home during a storm, your own homeowners policy usually pays for the damage. Insurance companies generally treat fallen trees as property losses, not as personal liability, unless negligence is proven.
Your neighbor may be responsible only if they ignored clear warnings that the tree was dead, rotting or unsafe. In those cases, their insurance may repay your deductible. Otherwise, your insurer covers the loss.
If a tree falls and does not strike a structure, coverage is usually very limited or not available at all. Situations where you pay out of pocket include:
One exception exists. If a fallen tree blocks your driveway and prevents access to the home, many carriers will cover limited debris removal even without structural damage.
In most cases the answer is yes. These types of items fall under the "Other Structures" portion of your homeowners policy, which is typically ten percent of your dwelling limit.
Covered examples include:
Normal wear, age-related deterioration or damage that occurs over time due to poor maintenance are not covered.
No. Preventative removal is almost never covered. Insurance does not pay for:
Insurance responds to sudden and accidental events, not ongoing maintenance.
No. Damage to vehicles is covered only under comprehensive coverage on your auto policy. Examples covered by auto insurance include:
If you carry only liability coverage, there is no protection for this type of loss.
Homeowners policies provide limited coverage for landscaping when the damage is caused by certain perils. Trees and shrubs may be covered if damaged by:
They are not covered for losses caused by:
Policies also include per-tree limits, often between five hundred and one thousand dollars. High value ornamental trees may require additional coverage.
Generally, no. Root damage is considered a maintenance issue. Common examples that are not covered include:
These issues develop over time and are excluded under most policies.
Yes, as long as the fall is caused by a covered peril such as a winter storm, heavy snow or ice accumulation. These events often lead to fallen trees in Massachusetts, especially during nor'easters.
Your deductible always applies to a tree damage claim. For example, if removal costs are thirteen hundred dollars and your deductible is one thousand dollars, insurance only covers the amount above the deductible. Most policies include removal limits, commonly five hundred to one thousand dollars per tree.
Massachusetts homeowners can reduce risk and avoid claims by taking the following steps:
Have a certified arborist inspect mature trees every one to two years. Many early signs of rot are invisible to the untrained eye.
If you believe a neighbor's tree is dangerous, email them photos and a written description. Documentation can establish negligence if a future loss occurs.
This reduces the chance of impact damage and limits wear on shingles.
Fences, decks and sheds are more expensive to replace today than they were when many policies were written. A quick coverage review can prevent surprises after a storm.
If you are unsure whether something is covered or would like a quick review of your homeowners insurance limits, Oak Grove Insurance is happy to help.
Call or text: 508-928-6645
Email: zach@oakgroveinsurance.com
Serving Canton, Sharon, Norwood, Walpole, Foxboro, Stoughton and surrounding Massachusetts towns.
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