How much tree coverage does a homeowners insurance policy include?
Short answer. On the standard form many insurers use, trees, shrubs and plants are covered up to 5 percent of your dwelling limit in total, with no more than $500 for any one tree, and only for listed perils such as fire, lightning, vandalism, theft and vehicles, not wind. Separate debris removal coverage pays limited costs to remove fallen trees, and some insurers sell endorsements with higher landscaping limits.
Working the numbers
With $300,000 of dwelling coverage, 5 percent is $15,000 for all landscaping in one loss, but no single tree can bring more than $500. A mature oak that would cost thousands to replace still tops out at $500 under this clause, and your deductible may apply.
Covered causes for the trees themselves
- Fire or lightning.
- Explosion.
- Riot or civil commotion.
- Aircraft.
- Vehicles not owned or driven by a household resident.
- Vandalism or malicious mischief.
- Theft.
Windstorm, hail, ice, disease, insects and drought are not on that list on the standard form.
Three tree coverages people mix up
- The tree itself: the clause above.
- Removing a fallen tree: debris removal, often $1,000 per loss and $500 per tree, when a tree felled by wind, hail or ice hits a covered structure or blocks the driveway.
- What the tree hits: your house, fence or shed, under dwelling or other structures coverage at full policy limits.
Getting more
Some insurers offer landscaping endorsements or higher limits, and policies written for high value homes often include broader landscaping coverage. Ask your agent, especially if you have large specimen trees near the house, and confirm the exact wording in your own policy.
When the tree damages the roof
That is where the real money is. See wind damage roof claims and when insurance replaces a roof.