Is Tree Damage and Flying Debris Damage Covered by Homeowner Insurance?

As roofers/contractors you are intimately aware of the aftermath of severe weather events – moments when homeowners turn to you for help, their roof caved in because of falling trees, or their sidings battered by flying debris. While your ultimate goal is to restore their house to its former glory, understanding your homeowner’s insurance coverage has a significant impact on your interactions with clients that determines the success of your projects.

Getting Down to the Root of Tree Damage and Insurance Coverage
Tree damage or flying debris damage is often covered by standard home insurance, especially when it is the outcome of a covered peril including wind storms, hail storms, snow storms, etc.  To put it into perspective when strong winds uproot a tree or cause debris to be airborne, or when heavy snow and ice causes a branch of a tree to break and damage a structure your client’s insurance policy will likely cover the cost of repairs and replacements needed due to branches and felled trees. Some policies even cover tree debris removal from the property grounds.

However, having in-depth knowledge about the extent of your homeowner’s insurance coverage is essential because exceptions exist.

Be Aware of Key Limitations in the Insurance Policy
While some home insurance policies go beyond expectations, their scope may have limits. Knowing where the coverage ends can help you avoid unwanted problems and unexpected expenditures. 

1. Acts of God: Some insurance excludes damages caused by natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, etc.
2. Negligence: Being a responsible homeowner comes a long way in ensuring the policy covers tree damage and flying debris damage, as some claims get denied because homeowners fail to maintain the tree properly or the property adequately.
3. Secondary Damage: While some insurance covers direct damage like those caused by a covered peril, it may not cover secondary damage like mold growth because of leaks in the roof.
4. Exclusions: some homeowners insurance may have exclusions to tree damage and flying debris damage if the damage is caused by sources not covered by the policy.

Using This Knowledge to Your Advantage
By being equipped with this information you can help build a good work relationship with clients and unexpected expenditure is mitigated.

1. Educate homeowners: Make your clients aware that their insurance may cover the cost of fallen trees, and encourage a review of their policy.
2. Promote proactive maintenance: Highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to avoid risks and keep coverage eligibility.
3. Meticulously document damages: Thoroughly record the extent of the storm damage for insurance claims purposes, including reports and photos.
4. Provide expert solutions: Offer recommendations for repairs or replacements that are aligned with their needs and insurance coverage.
5. Encourage collaboration with insurance providers: Create open communication with insurance companies to ensure accurate assessments of the damage.​

In conclusion, being a roofer or general contractor goes beyond restoring your clients’ house in its previous splendor after a tree has fallen or debris become airborne; it also entails helping homeowners get the most out of their insurance policy, with Claim Supplement Pro by your side you can ensure precise evaluations of the damages guaranteeing that they are accounted for while collaborating seamlessly with insurance companies.