An old, neglected tree has fallen precariously into yours and your neighbor’s yard. Who is responsible for removing a fallen tree? As your local provider of tree services in Oconee County, GA, Georgia Tree Removal can help answer this inquiry.
On Whose Property Did the Tree Grow?
You have to answer a few questions before figuring out who should cover the fallen tree removal service. The first of which is, where did the specimen grow? If the tree’s trunk sprouted in your yard, you might have the majority of the responsibility. But if the trunk grew right on the property line, you and your neighbor may split the service costs.
Did the Property Owner Care for the Tree?
Let’s say the property owner neglected the specimen. Who is responsible for fallen tree removal when the tree dies and falls because of pest infestations or diseases? You’re generally responsible for the assets on your personal property. Therefore, a property owner must:
- Treat any pests or diseases.
- Nurture the tree to health with hydration and fertilization.
- Promptly remove the tree if the specimen doesn’t improve.
A lack of care places the tree removal services squarely within the property owner’s responsibility.
Why Did the Tree Fall?
Natural, unpredictable events, such as powerful storms, can shift the property owner’s responsibility. In other words, maybe the tree grew from your lawn, but a violent gale cracked the trunk. If it landed on your neighbor’s property, they’ll typically shoulder the responsibility of arranging and paying for their property damage.
This may spur a neighbor-tree dispute. You might benefit from legal mediation to prevent the situation from escalating. It may help to reread what your insurance policies say about coverage for storm-damaged trees.
Would Insurance Coverage Pay for the Tree Damage?
If a storm toppled the tree onto your neighbor’s property, you might likely incur some property damage, too. Some insurance providers will split the tree damage liability in half. That means your policy covers 50% of the damages while your neighbor covers the other half.
However, insurance coverage doesn’t usually pay for damage incurred due to neglect. If the party who owned the tree didn’t consistently care for it, they’ll pay for all the damage out of pocket under most circumstances.
Can You Preemptively Remove a Tree?
What if you just want to remove a tree on your property in general? You might know that the tree will fall, and you want to prevent permanent damage. Perhaps the tree just gets in your way and is otherwise healthy.
You have full rights to move forward with legal tree removal services if the specimen grows squarely on your property. This may also include managing the rooting tree stump, as some stumps can produce new shoots over time or remain an obstacle in the yard if left untreated. However, you’ll have to speak with your neighbor if the specimen grows on the property line.
Georgia Tree Removal Can Help Coordinate Who Is Responsible for Removing a Fallen Tree and the Removal Service in Oconee County, Georgia
Who is responsible for removing a fallen tree? Discuss the situation with your neighbor in Oconee County, Georgia. Then, contact us to learn about the removal service options Georgia Tree Removal offers.