Can you insure the trees on your property?

How standard coverage works

A common homeowners form includes trees, shrubs and other plants as an additional coverage, with a total limit set as a small percentage of the dwelling limit (often 5 percent) and no more than about $500 for any one tree, shrub or plant. It applies only to listed causes, typically:

• Fire and lightning
• Explosion, riot or civil commotion
• Aircraft, and vehicles not owned or driven by a resident
• Vandalism and theft

Windstorm and hail are commonly left out, so a mature oak snapped by wind is usually not paid for as a tree. Your policy may differ, so check the wording.

Coverage people confuse with tree coverage

• Damage caused by a tree: a tree falling on your house or fence is covered under dwelling or other structures coverage. That is about the house, not the tree.
• Tree removal: many policies pay limited costs to remove trees felled by wind, hail or ice when they hit a covered structure or block a driveway.

When to add more

If your property has specimen trees or extensive landscaping, ask your agent about a landscaping endorsement or scheduled coverage. Have an arborist or landscaper document value, and keep photos.

The roof connection

Trees are among the biggest risks to a North Georgia roof. Trimming and inspecting large trees costs less than the deductible on a tree claim. See emergency tarping if one does come down, and how to file a roof claim.