Damage to Trees and Removal of the Debris

May 20, 2015

A tree felled by wind landed across a driveway. It did not damage the driveway, it just blocked access by motor vehicle. I believe the maximum amount of coverage available under the HO-2000 program is $500 for debris removal. The adjuster feels it is $1,000: $500 for the tree felled by wind and $500 for the debris removal. Who is right?

North Carolina Subscriber

The tree was felled by wind, but wind is not a covered cause of loss for trees. Damage to trees is covered if caused by fire, lightning, explosion, riot or civil commotion, aircraft, nonowned vehicles, vandalism, or theft. Therefore, only $500 for debris removal is covered. Had the tree been damaged by one of the named perils, such as fire, then the adjuster would be correct, and $500 would be paid for the replacement tree and $500 for the debris removal.