Here’s Who Pays When a Neighbors Tree Falls During a SouthCoast Storm

After powerful storms like the Blizzard of '26 that paralyzed the SouthCoast in February, many homeowners are left asking the same question when trees fall during severe weather.

Who Is Responsible for Cleaning Up the Damage?

With hurricane force winds and more than three feet of heavy, wet snow, the SouthCoast suffered our fair share of downed trees, many of them can still be seeing laying near the edge of the road. With so many downed trees, it is important to understand how homeowners insurance and Massachusetts law typically handle situations involving fallen trees.

Needless to say, every homeowners policy reads differently and coverage depends on the specific language within your policy. That being said, here is how situations like this are usually handled.

When a Neighbor's Tree Falls Into Your Yard Without Damage

If a healthy tree in your neighbor's yard falls into your yard, but does not damage any structures on your property, you are generally responsible for removing the tree.

It is similar to leaves or small branches from the same tree landing in your yard. There is usually no expectation that your neighbor would ever clean them up.

Craig Correia of Paul and Dixon Insurance said most standard homeowners policies will not cover cleanup costs when there is no damage to a covered structure.

In some cases, a value added endorsement may provide limited coverage for cleanup,  but that depends entirely on the policy.

When a Neighbor's Tree Damages Your Home

If a healthy tree from your neighbor's property falls and damages your home, the situation may surprise many homeowners.

Even if the tree came from your neighbor yard the claim would typically go through your own homeowners insurance policy. Insurance carriers generally consider storm-related tree damage an act of nature.

What Happens If the Tree Was Unhealthy?

It can be a different story if the tree was visibly unhealthy.

If a homeowner had previously notified their neighbor that a tree appeared dangerous and could cause damage, that documentation could help establish liability.

Experts recommend sending written correspondence asking that the tree be inspected by a certified arborist.

How Massachusetts Common Law Handles Fallen Trees

Massachusetts common law generally follows a common sense approach.

If leaves from a neighbor's tree blow into your yard you would not expect them to come rake them up. The same principle often applies to fallen branches or even a fallen tree.

While these guidelines describe how situations typically play out, homeowners should always speak directly with their insurance agent to confirm the specific coverage on their policy.

If you are looking for a reputable tree service on the SouthCoast, we recommend Nadeau Tree Service in Westport. They have a world-class staff and equipment to take on any job. Nadeau Tree Service can do the jobs other companies can't do.