Generally in California, if a neighbor’s tree falls on your property, your own homeowners insurance typically covers the damage. Here are some key points:
Your Insurance Coverage: If a tree from your neighbor’s yard falls on your property, your homeowners insurance will generally cover the damage to your home and other structures, minus your deductible.
Neighbor’s Negligence: If the tree was dead or diseased and your neighbor knew about it but did nothing, you might be able to claim that their negligence caused the damage. In such cases, your insurance company might seek reimbursement from your neighbor’s insurance through a process called subrogation.
Tree Removal Costs: Your policy may also cover the cost of removing the fallen tree, but there are usually limits on how much will be paid for this, often around $500 to $1,000.
Liability Coverage: If your tree falls on your neighbor’s property, their insurance will typically cover the damage. However, if you were negligent in maintaining the tree, your liability coverage might come into play.
While this has been our experience, it’s always a good idea to review your specific policy details and speak with your insurance agent to fully understand your coverage or specific circumstance. We strive to have trees inspected at annual inspections in order to attempt to prevent these scenarios.