The short answer
Usually, yes, if the tree damages your house or another insured structure. Most policies cover sudden damage from events like wind, lightning, ice and snow. The tree itself and the cleanup are a separate question, and that's where limits come in.
Your policy wording decides the details, so review your policy or talk with your agent.
What hit what matters most
- Tree hits the house: dwelling coverage usually pays for repairs, minus your deductible
- Tree hits a detached garage, shed or fence: other structures coverage usually applies, with its own limit
- Tree damages belongings, like patio furniture: personal property coverage may help
- Tree lands in the yard and hits nothing: removal often isn't covered
- Tree hits your car: that's usually your auto policy's comprehensive coverage, not homeowners
Tree removal and debris limits
When a covered tree hits a structure, many policies pay to remove it, often with a set limit per tree and per storm. Some also help when a fallen tree blocks your driveway or a ramp you need for access.
Cutting the tree into pieces and hauling it away can cost more than the limit. Ask your agent what yours is before storm season.
When it's your neighbor's tree
If your neighbor's healthy tree falls on your house during a storm, your own policy usually pays, because it insures your home. You'd file with your carrier and pay your deductible.
It can be different if the tree was clearly dead or dying and your neighbor had been told about it. Then their liability coverage may come into play. The same goes in reverse if your tree falls on their property.
Dead trees and maintenance
Insurance covers sudden events, not upkeep. If a tree was rotting, leaning badly or already dropping limbs and you didn't deal with it, a carrier may treat the damage as neglect.
Have an arborist look at large trees near the house now and then. Removing a risky tree costs money, but less than a roof and a denied claim.
After a tree falls
- Get everyone away from the area and stay clear of downed power lines
- Call the utility if lines are involved
- Photograph the tree, the damage and the stump before anything is moved
- Cover holes in the roof or windows to prevent more damage, and keep receipts
- Call your carrier before major removal work, if it's safe to wait
