Living with trees: What you need to know about storm protection and insurance coverage

As the Bay Area dries out from a parade of atmospheric rivers, leaving hundreds of downed trees in their wake, a new set of questions are facing residents: How can trees be protected and risks of damage and danger to life and property reduced? When the damage is already done, who pays?

With so many losses, just finding help is a challenge. We asked some experts for insight: Tree Davis, a nonprofit which plants trees in Yolo County; Michal Brower, State Farm Insurance public affairs specialist; and Elizabeth Hartman, spokesperson for Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies.

Q: How can I assess the risk of my trees?

A: Tree care can significantly extend the performance, lifespan and the benefits of trees. Have your trees inspected periodically. Prune overextended or dead branches. Here are signs of trouble: leaning trees, with raised soil on the side of the trunk opposite the lean: cracks extending into the wood on the trunk or major limbs; "conks," or fungal fruiting bodies on the trunk; separation or falling bark.

Q: My home is damaged by a falling tree. Does insurance cover tree removal?

A: Policies and coverage levels can be different. But if a storm causes a tree to fall then coverage is generally provided to remove the tree from the house, fence, carport or garage and to perform repairs to that property.

There may be coverage limits for tree removal. For instance, Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance companies only pay up to $1,000 for tree removal, regardless of the number of fallen trees, and no more than $500 of this limit will be paid for the removal of any one tree.

Q: What do I need to know about removing a downed tree that has fallen and damaged my property?

A: Your tree removal company should be licensed and bonded. Be sure tarping, if needed, is included in their work or another contractor, so additional damage does not happen through an open roof. Be sure to talk to an insurance specialist for help.

Q: Does insurance cover tree removal, if my home isn't damaged?

A: If a windstorm causes a tree to fall but it does not damage your property — such as your house, fence, carport or garage — a homeowners policy typically does not cover tree debris removal.

But it might cover the costs if the tree blocks your driveway so that you can't access your home, or if it blocks a handicapped ramp.

Q: My tree fell on my neighbor's property. Who is responsible for its removal?

A: Your insurance only covers the cost of removing the tree from your property, not your neighbor's. If you were found negligent — for instance, the tree was dying before the wind storm — and a neighbor makes a claim or brings a lawsuit against you, that would be handled under the liability portion of your insurance policy. Whether you are legally liable would be governed by the laws of your community.

Q: My tree fell and injured someone. Am I responsible?

A: The issue of whether you're legally liable is governed by the laws of your community. If you're considered liable, a homeowners policy will pay for the damages.

Q: Is my car covered for wind storm damage?

A: Check with your insurance agent to see if you have comprehensive coverage — for fire, wind or hail — in your auto policy. Comprehensive coverage on a typical auto insurance policy will generally cover damage to your auto caused by wind/flying debris. Every policy is different and may include varying levels of coverage, and is subject to individual deductible.

Q: What other steps should I take?

A: Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage to your home or property. Save receipts if you purchase items such as tarps, plywood or other supplies to make repairs. Take photos/videos of damage for claim documentation.

Q: How can I better prepare for future storms?

A: Place vehicles in a garage or into an area that offers protection from flying debris. Place trash bins, patio furniture, grills and other outdoor objects indoors. Remove risky tree branches Make sure you have all insurance documents organized and in a safe location.