Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Tree Removal in Florida?

Short answer: usually when a fallen tree damages something your policy covers, and usually not when it doesn't. The details matter, so here is how it typically works in Florida. Your policy is what counts, so read it or ask your agent. This is general information, not insurance advice.

When it's usually covered

• A tree falls on your house, garage, shed, or fence during a storm. The structure repair and removing the tree from it are typically covered, minus your deductible.
• Your neighbor's tree falls on your house. Your own policy typically pays, not your neighbor's, unless the neighbor was negligent.
• A fallen tree blocks your driveway or a wheelchair ramp. Many policies pay for removal even though nothing was damaged.

When it usually isn't

• A tree falls in the yard and hits nothing. Many policies won't pay to remove it.
• A dead or neglected tree comes down. Insurers can deny claims for damage caused by a hazard that wasn't maintained.
• Removing a healthy tree you're worried about. Prevention is on you, which is why pre-storm risk checks are worth it.
• Your car. Vehicle damage normally goes through the comprehensive coverage on your auto policy.

Watch the limits and the hurricane deductible

Many standard policies cap tree debris removal at a fixed amount per tree and per storm, which may not cover a large tree on a roof. And in Florida, damage from a named hurricane usually falls under a separate hurricane deductible, often a percentage of your dwelling coverage rather than a flat dollar amount. On a big claim that changes how much you pay out of pocket.

How to document a tree claim

• Photograph the tree and the damage from several angles before anything is moved.
• Get the hazard off the structure quickly to prevent further damage. Insurers expect you to limit the loss.
• Keep every invoice and get an itemized one from the tree company that separates emergency make-safe work from full removal.
• Ask the tree company to talk to your adjuster if questions come up. We do this regularly.