Insurance Companies and the Trees Over Your Roof

Howdy Austin! Insurance companies cancelling homeowners insurance policies have become a more concerning problem as of late. Aerial photographs of roofs and drive-by inspections have led to quick determinations about the potential hazards of tree limbs over roofs without a fair assessment of the actual risks. So, what can be done about it?

Call your arborist! Our job is to assess and quantify risk and present it in a way that allows you as the property owner to make a well-informed decision. Our professional opinion can change the determination of coverage for may insurance companies. Here are some of the items we will be assessing:

• Is the tree or branch alive? If not, there is a higher risk of failure and that should be removed.
• Is there obvious disease or damage that could weaken the tree or branch?
• Does the tree have good structure? Is it a species with a tendency towards failure?
• Is there any clearance? If so, how much? Are there obvious signs of branches rubbing shingles or other fixtures on the roof?
• If failure occurs, what are the consequences of that? A small 1.5″ branch falling 3 feet? Negligible. A 12″ cottonwood branch extended 15 feet above the house? Probably a concern.

These are items that can be addressed and USUALLY mitigated in a way that satisfies an insurance company without needing to remove the entire canopy above the roof. We are also able to cite tree protection ordinances that would require approval for work to be done, and whether the request would be permitted.

If we are unable to convince your insurance company that the risk may be worth insuring, we can always let you know where other clients are insured.

If you have received a notice of cancellation related to trees overhanging your roof, please give us a call or text us today!