Trees enhance a condominium community’s appearance and value, but when they’re neglected, they can quickly turn into a costly problem.
Here’s what most condo boards and owners don’t realize until it’s too late: Insurance carriers distinguish between “acts of nature” and damage caused by deferred maintenance, and that distinction can mean the difference between a covered loss and a five- or six-figure bill.
Insurance may respond when a healthy tree falls because of a sudden event, such as a severe storm. However, damage caused by neglect, disease, decay, or a known hazardous condition may not be covered. The association could also face liability if it knew—or reasonably should have known—that a tree was dangerous and failed to address it.
To help protect your community, follow these steps:
- Schedule routine inspections by a qualified tree professional.
- Remove dead branches and address signs of disease or decay.
- Document inspections, recommendations, and completed work.
- Respond promptly to residents’ concerns about potentially hazardous trees.
- Trim branches away from rooflines, walkways, and power lines before they become a hazard.
- Confirm that your association’s general liability and property coverage actually reflects the size and condition of your landscaping. Older or larger properties sometimes outgrow their original policy limits.
We are happy to review your current policy or answer questions about how tree-related claims are typically handled. Just give us a call.
