When faced with a storm damage claim, it’s essential to understand insurance coverage for tree removal after a storm. While a healthy tree is less likely to fall over, an older one is more likely to do so. This can be problematic for insurance companies, who may argue that removing the tree would have avoided the damage. That’s why you should plan before a storm.

Preparing for storm damage

If you have recently had a tree removed from your property, you may be wondering what to do next. The good news is that storm preparation is essential. If you follow a few basic guidelines, you can minimize storm damage and stay safe. Preparation is the key to avoiding costly repairs. For example, make sure to check your power lines and make sure they’re in good shape. Additionally, you should check your gutters and remove any debris that could catch on fire. In addition, you should lock up all gates to prevent damage and reduce liability.

When trees fall on structures, storm clean-up can become a messy process. You need to pick up fallen branches and debris, but the worst-case scenario is when branches fall onto structures. You may call experts from storm tree removal Orlando, FL, to help you clean the mess. Unfortunately, you can’t simply wait for insurance to pay for this, and your coverage may only cover the cost of damaged structures. This program works much like an insurance policy, only you pay upfront for potential damage. This program can save you thousands of dollars by preventing storm clean-up headaches in the future.

Before the storm, you should consider removing branches that might have fallen. Trees that have rotted are more prone to falling during a storm, so they should be pruned back to their correct angles. Also, prune limbs are outside the ridge, not left as a big stub. Finally, if you have a variety of trees, research the wood’s elasticity in each tree. Oak, for example, is susceptible to wind damage from storms, so you should avoid those with rotten wood.

It’s essential to report storm damage to the utility company. While it may be easy to overlook, some damage may be hidden in the tree. Always hire a tree care professional to examine the tree before removal. Some species of trees are more resilient than others. You can call them in the event of a storm, but ensure you’re prepared for any emergency.

Insurance coverage for tree removal after storm damage

If falling trees damage your property, do not wait to contact your insurance company to find out how much you will have to pay for the tree removal. The insurance company may not pay for the tree removal cost if the tree is dead, but they will likely respond if the neighbor’s trees fall on their property. You may also need to fortify your home to protect yourself from falling trees, including installing impact-resistant roofing materials. If you do not have a storm-resistant roof, make sure you use a sturdy one to prevent shattered windows and water leaks.

Although your homeowner’s insurance may cover tree removal costs, it does not cover natural causes. For example, insurers would not cover tree removal due to storm damage if the tree was not cut down before the storm. This means that your insurer may assume you could have had it removed before the storm. If you have been aware of this possibility, you may consider purchasing additional flood insurance policies. FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program administers this type of coverage.

However, if you live in an earthquake zone or flood plain, your homeowner’s insurance will not cover tree removal costs after a storm. Instead, you’ll need to purchase a separate policy. If you are in an earthquake zone, you’ll also need to buy an individual rider for your existing policy. While standard homeowner insurance will not cover tree removal, many policies will cover the cost of removing the tree if it causes damage to your property.

When filing a claim for tree removal after storm damage, it is essential to consider all the variables affecting your coverage. First, it’s vital to assess the overall health of the tree. For example, if a 70-year-old tree fell, it may not have been affected by the storm, but a strong wind gust might have hit it. Nevertheless, your insurance company will most likely cover the damage caused by the storm, even if the tree is healthy. Moreover, if you’ve had an accident with the tree, you might have to file a claim for the repair.