Who is responsible for tree removal when a tree falls on the property? Discover cost coverage, insurance, and more. Get advice from professional tree removal services.
The towering trees’ greenery makes the Surf Coast a stunning place. However, the strong coastal winds with heavy rainfall can bring down even the longest-standing trees.
When these trees fall, the question arises: Who is responsible for the removal of fallen trees?
At Ocean Road Tree Services, we frequently assist Surf Coast residents with fallen tree removal. Whether it’s a tree ruining the scenic beauty of your property or presenting a potential hazard to nearby infrastructure, we’re here to help the Surf Coast residents with all things tree-related!
When a Tree Falls, Who Takes Responsibility?
The responsibility of removing a fallen tree depends on the location, the cause of the fall, and whether it affects the nearby properties and infrastructure.
On Your Property
If a tree falls on your property, the responsibility depends on the ownership. If you own the property, it is your duty to remove it responsibly to prevent hazards.
As a homeowner, routine tree maintenance, such as tree trimming and pruning, is essential for minimising risks.
Decaying branches often fall during high winds and storms. Structural weaknesses can also cause a tree to fall. If such is the case, the responsibility is on the owner of the property.
On a Neighbour’s Property
When a tree falls from a neighbouring property to yours, things get tricky. In most cases, the owner is responsible for safe tree removal and is also liable to pay damage costs. However, there are a few exceptions.
If the tree damages your property, your insurance may cover the removal costs along with property damage expenses.
However, if the fallen tree is found to be diseased or decaying and your neighbour fails to act, legal considerations come into play.
Similarly, it’s your duty to look after the decaying trees, which are a potential hazard and could damage the nearby structures.
On Public Land
If a tree on public land falls onto your property, causing damage, it is the responsibility of the Surf Coast Shire. Local councils manage public land and trees. They also handle tree removal when they present a risk.
If you notice a tree on public land that poses a safety threat, it is best to contact the Surf Coast Shire.
Insurance and Fallen Trees
It’s wise to be well-informed regarding insurance when it comes to fallen trees. Many homeowner insurance policies cover the basic costs of tree removal if the tree damages a structure on your property.
However, if the tree falls without causing any damage, insurance may not cover the removal costs. If a tree falls across two properties, each property owner’s insurance will share the cost of removal.
To avoid hidden costs and surprises, it is best to stay informed and review your insurance policy.
Natural Causes
When a tree falls due to a natural cause such as the high winds, rainfall, or storms, which are pretty common on the Surf Coast, the responsibility of removal falls on the property owner.
Insurance does cover property damage in some cases, but routine maintenance and removal is generally your own responsibility.
Preventing Future Falls
For rental property, the owners are responsible for covering damage costs. However, if you’re residing there, it’s best to remove dead and decaying branches.
If you notice a weakened tree structure, you should contact professional arborists to prevent potential tree hazards.
Here are a few tips to prevent future falls.
Frequent tree inspection: You should inspect the trees or consult an arborist to identify potential hazards such as tree diseases, rots, and structural weakness.
Tree pruning: Frequent pruning can keep the trees healthy and prevent overgrown branches from falling.
Tree trimming: Trimming branches near structures, powerlines, or areas prone to high winds minimises the risk of a falling tree.
Plan for storms: Before the storm seasons, clear any trees or overhanging branches that pose a danger.
Need Help? Contact Ocean Road Tree Services
Managing a fallen tree and safely removing it from the property is quite a task. However, you don’t have to handle the mess yourself. For emergency tree removal or routine maintenance, consult Ocean Road Tree Services.Experts at Ocean Road Tree Services provide professional assistance regarding tree health, removal, and other tree maintenance services. If you’re dealing with a fallen tree or want to prevent future issues, contact us today for expert advice and assistance!
