- If a tree falls in my yard but does no damage, will my insurance pay for clean up?
- Generally, insurance will pay when there is damage to home or property. Some policies provide for limited coverage to clean up trees and debris, for example when your driveway access is blocked.
- If my neighbor's tree falls on my property and hits my home, should my neighbor's insurance company pay?
- Unless negligence can be proven, the neighbor's policy covers their house and your policy covers your own house. Generally, if the tree is down due to a storm, the owner would not be considered negligent.
- My tree is overhanging my house. It has not fallen, but poses a danger to my property and my family. Will insurance pay for the cost to remove it?
- Most policies do not provide for removal of trees that may fall.
- A tree has fallen on my roof. Will insurance pay for tarps?
- Insurers expect homeowners to protect their property from further damage and will generally pay for reasonable costs of protecting their property, including tarps.
- I have hurricane damage deductible on my policy and I have wind damage. Is that considered a hurricane?
- It is important to read your policy carefully as often there is a difference between wind deductibles and hurricane/tornado deductibles. Hurricanes are more specific, while wind deductibles can be triggered by thunderstorms.
- Can I get a contractor to begin repairs to my home if the insurance company can't get out for a week?
- Most insurers want to see the damage before final repairs are made. If you must make temporary repairs, document it with photos before the repairs are made and keep all receipts of what you have spent.
- My neighbor's policy paid for spoiled food, but my policy won't. Don't all policies have food spoilage endorsement?
- Not all policies cover food spoilage.
- What should I do if I have a claim?
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- Contact your agent or insurance company as soon as possible.
- Protect your property from further damage. Take video or photos and keep all receipts for making temporary repairs.
- Keep an inventory of damaged property.