You might look at that ponderous tree hanging over your roof and think, “Thank God I have home insurance!” But will your insurance policy cover the damage caused by an unmaintained tree in your backyard? This is a very serious question that you should ask your insurance provider.
However, we can propose you this general advice: Probably not. It is doubtful that your insurance company will pay out a claim to cover the cost of damage created by a precarious tree on your property. Since they consider it reasonable for you to take care of any such hazards to yourself. The vast majority of insurance policies comprise a clause like this:
“The homeowner is required, at their own expense, to execute any necessary maintenance work to prevent damage to their home.”
This statement is intentionally broad enough to cover any number of reasons for resisting to pay out an insurance claim. And it most certainly does cover that big menacing tree you are wondering about.
Many individuals take the risk of not sustaining the trees on their backyard because of the cost involved. However, the price of tree maintenance or tree removal is minimal compared to the cost of destruction to your property, or the injury or death of family members resulting from falling trees or branches. And it isn’t just your property that you have to worry about! If a precarious tree on your land damages your neighbour’s house, then you are still accountable, without the protection (or not) of your insurance policy!
Throughout Sydney region, dangerous trees can be removed with minimal paperwork and tree pruning and tree maintenance is very affordable. Many Sydney councils allow the tree removal within a certain distance from a house without a permit – it is also known as the 10/50 rule.
But, even if the local council won’t let you remove that tree, there are lots of steps you can take to minimise the risk to your property, your family, and your neighbours.
If you are looking for a qualified tree surgeon in Sydney, feel free to call At Your Tree Service for free quotes and recommendation for a suitable solution to minimise the risk of a dangerous tree.