Middendorf Insurance - News
Tree limbs and Branches
Judging by the calendar and the current weather, it appears we can finally say goodbye to a long, harsh winter.
Judging by the calendar and the current weather, it appears we can finally say goodbye to a long, harsh winter. Now is the time of the year when we gaze upwards to enjoy the reappearing sun and to survey the damage to our trees. Many of us have broken branches from the past ice storms that we want cleared while they aren't hidden by leaves.
Many times over the years we have been asked if a homeowners policy will respond to cutting a tree or branch that is potentially endangering a structure. A homeowners policy is not a maintenance policy; it is meant to make you whole after the loss. That being said, there is a responsibility of the homeowner to protect the property. Those trees/limbs may need to be removed before they cause any damage instead of waiting for them to fall. Protecting the covered property from damage is a condition of the homeowners policy.
Let’s say the homeowner is aware of dead branches or trees and doesn't do anything about them. Next, they fall causing damage to the home. The claim could be denied. The company’s position is that the property owner was aware of the problem and didn't do anything to prevent damage. The home owner’s duty to protect property is written in the insurance contract. Would there be coverage? Maybe, but why not take away that grey area by getting those branches and trees trimmed.
If you want to discuss problem branches and tree limbs further feel free to call our office.