Who Is Responsible for Fallen Tree Removal?

When a tree unexpectedly falls—whether it’s due to a storm, high winds, or disease—it can cause more than just damage to your property. It also creates confusion: Who is responsible for fallen tree removal and who pays for the repairs?

The answer depends on one main thing: where the tree falls, not where it came from. Let’s break down the most common scenarios and explain how fallen tree insurance coverage and tree liability typically work, and when to call in a professional tree removal service.

1. If My Tree Falls on My House—Now What?

If your own tree falls on your house or any insured structure (like a garage, shed, or fence), your homeowner’s insurance usually covers both the damage and fallen tree removal—as long as there was actual damage. You’ll still need to pay your deductible, but beyond that, you’re typically covered up to your policy limits.

However, if the tree falls in your yard without damaging any structures, your insurance likely won’t help with cleanup. In this case, you’re responsible for the downed tree removal, and you’ll need to hire a tree removal service on your own.

2. If My Tree Falls on Neighbor’s House, Who Is Responsible?

Generally speaking, the damaged property owner’s insurance policy is the one that pays for repairs. That means your neighbor’s homeowner’s insurance would typically cover the fallen tree damage—even if the tree was from your property.

But there’s an exception: tree liability could shift to you if your negligence caused the fall. For example, if the tree was clearly dead, diseased, or unstable and you ignored it, your neighbor’s insurer may try to recover the cost from you.

To protect yourself, make sure you regularly inspect your trees and address any obvious issues. Hiring a certified arborist for evaluations is a smart way to stay ahead of potential problems.

3. If My Neighbor’s Tree Fell on My Property, Who Is Responsible?

You might be thinking,if a neighbor’s tree fell on my house, do they pay for it?In most cases, no—your homeowner’s insurance would typically cover the damage to your property, even if the tree came from next door.

But as mentioned in the previous example, if a known hazard (like a dying or leaning tree) was ignored by your neighbor, and you have documentation proving they were aware, there’s a chance their insurance could be held accountable. That’s why it’s important to act early if you think a tree poses a risk.

If you’re concerned about a tree on a neighboring property, you can:

• Hire a certified arborist to assess the tree
• Send a certified letter to your neighbor outlining the concern and requesting removal

This paper trail can strengthen your insurance claim if damage occurs later, and you believe negligence was involved.

4. If a City-Owned Tree Falls on My Property, Who is Responsible?

If a tree maintained by the city—like one from a parkway, median, or public park—falls onto your property, the cleanup responsibility usually falls to the local municipality. That means the city is typically in charge of removing the fallen tree and clearing debris.

However, when it comes to repairing damage to your home, garage, or fence, you’ll likely need to file a claim through your own homeowner’s insurance. The exception? If the city was previously notified that the tree was dead, diseased, or otherwise hazardous and didn’t take action, they could be held liable for damages.

If you ever notice a questionable tree on public land, it’s a good idea to report it to the city in writing. This creates a record that could protect you later if something goes wrong.

5. If My Tree Falls on Public Property, Who is Responsible?

Generally, if one of your trees falls onto a sidewalk, right-of-way areas, or other public land, responsibility for removing it usually falls on you—the tree owner. Most cities expect homeowners to maintain trees on their property, even if the debris ends up on public land.

City crews may handle certain aspects, like clearing branches from roadways for safety, but you’ll likely need to hire a professional tree removal service to clean up most of the debris.

Call a Professional Arborist You Can Trust

Dealing with a fallen tree can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to handle it alone. Whether you’re still wondering who is responsible for fallen tree removal or need help navigating your insurance claim, Ivan’s Tree Services is here to help. Our team provides expert tree removal and will assist you with the necessary paperwork to ensure your insurer has everything they need. We work with all major insurance companies and understand the process from start to finish.

Contact us today to schedule your service or request an evaluation.