ERIE, Pa., Nov. 7, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- With the fall
season comes high winds, heavy rain, and the risk of fallen trees
that can cause serious property damage. So what happens if your
neighbor's tree falls in your yard?
"Trees can be tricky, but generally speaking homeowners are
responsible for what falls into their yard," says Gary Sullivan, vice president of property and
subrogation claims at Erie Insurance. "If this scenario becomes a
reality, your homeowners insurance would typically help cover the
cost of removing the tree and the damage it caused, after your
deductible."
The same is true in reverse: If a tree on your property falls in
your neighbor's yard, your neighbor should file a claim with his or
her insurance company. In most cases, neighbors are able to work
things out without too much trouble. If there's ever an issue, your
claims adjuster can help straighten everything out.
The Claims Process
If a tree falls on your house, take photos, then call your
claims adjuster, who will evaluate the damage and explain your
homeowners coverage. It's recommended that you call your claims
adjuster before you contract to have the tree
removed.
Sometimes trees fall on cars. If it's not safe or possible to
remove the tree from the car yourself, call a professional. Again,
talk to a claims adjuster first and take a few photos of the fallen
tree on your car. Depending on the damage, both your homeowners and
the optional comprehensive coverage you may have on your auto
policy could provide coverage for the loss.
Preventing Damage
Preventive measures matter when it comes to trees. Start by
looking for signs of distress such as dead limbs, cracks in the
trunk or major limbs, leaning to one side and branches that are
close to a house or power line. Mushroom growth on the roots or
bark can also signal trouble.
"A homeowner should pay attention to the health of their trees,"
says Sullivan. "The best thing to do is regularly have large trees
trimmed."
The Tree Care Industry Association lists accredited tree
care professionals.
To learn more and to ensure you have the right coverage for your
home, contact an Erie Insurance agent in your
community.
About Erie Insurance
According to A.M. Best Company, Erie Insurance Group, based in
Erie, Pennsylvania, is the 10th
largest homeowners insurer and 12th largest automobile insurer in
the United States based on direct
premiums written and the 15th largest property/casualty insurer in
the United States based on total
lines net premium written. The Group, rated A+ (Superior) by A.M.
Best Company, has more than 5 million policies in force and
operates in 12 states and the District of
Columbia. Erie Insurance Group is a FORTUNE 500 company.
News releases and more information about Erie Insurance Group
are available at www.erieinsurance.com.
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SOURCE Erie Indemnity