Generally speaking, if your property is damaged, you are responsible for the damage. It doesn't matter if the tree or branch comes from your property, from your neighbor's property, or even from municipal property. Keep in mind that a windstorm is no one's fault; it's an act of nature. Trees can be tricky, but for the most part homeowners are responsible for what falls into their own yard.
So, if a storm causes your neighbor's tree to fall into your yard, your homeowners insurance could help cover the cost of removing the tree and repairing the damage it caused to your property, after the deductible. DPR officials also remove trees or branches that block sidewalks or streets, as well as branches that are cracked or hanging and about to fall off. Trees found along the streets in front of houses will be investigated and removed if necessary. Before you can determine who is responsible for damage caused by the fall of a tree or branch, you need to know who is the real owner of the tree.
Landlords should consult with a private landscaping contractor to arrange for removal of non-city trees or tree branches. But, if you or your association are having problems with fallen trees or tree damage, don't hesitate to call a HOA management company like us for help. For example, your insurance company could cover the removal of tree debris if the fallen tree is blocking the entrance to a home. If your government documents state that the association is liable for damage caused by a fallen tree, even if that tree was on the property of a homeowner, then the HOA should bear that burden.
If a tree falls on your home and causes damage, insurance companies typically cover the cost of removing debris from trees, in addition to repairs to the shoulders of the house and structures you own. If the tree trunk is directly at the property boundary (a boundary tree), both you and your neighbors own the tree. You should always hire a licensed, safe, and insured tree specialist to get a tree out of your garden.
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