Who is responsible for removing a tree that falls on my neighbors property from my property following a storm?
Answer: As a homeowner in Michigan, you are generally responsible for removing trees that fall on your property, including those that fall from your own trees or a neighbor's tree. If a tree falls on your house or driveway, it’s crucial to address the damage immediately, but the cost of removal will typically fall on the home or property owner unless there is a specific insurance clause or agreement in place with your neighbor.

Who is responsible for removing a tree that falls on my property from my neighbors property following a storm?
Answer: As a homeowner in Michigan, you are generally responsible for removing trees that fall on your property, including those that fall from your own trees or a neighbor's tree. If a tree falls on your house or driveway, it’s crucial to address the damage immediately, but the cost of removal will typically fall on the home or property owner unless there is a specific insurance clause or agreement in place with your neighbor.

Q&A: Tree Removal Responsibility After Storms in Michigan

1. Who is responsible for removing a tree that falls on my property after a storm?
Answer: As a homeowner in Michigan, you are generally responsible for removing trees that fall on your property, including those that fall from your own trees or a neighbor's tree. If a tree falls on your house or driveway, it’s crucial to address the damage immediately, but the cost of removal will typically fall on you unless there is a specific insurance clause or agreement in place with your neighbor.

2. Will my homeowners insurance cover tree removal after a storm?
Answer: In Michigan, homeowners insurance may cover tree removal costs if the tree causes damage to your home or other structures on your property. However, removal of a fallen tree that causes no damage is usually not covered by standard homeowners insurance. Always review your policy or contact your insurance agent for specifics.

3. What if a neighbor’s tree falls on my property? Who pays for removal?
Answer: If a neighbor's tree falls onto your property due to a storm, you may still be responsible for the tree removal. However, if the tree was previously dead or deemed hazardous, you may be able to pursue compensation through your neighbor’s insurance or take legal action. It's always best to have clear communication and ideally a written agreement on such matters in advance.

4. Is there any responsibility for property owners to maintain trees before a storm?
Answer: Yes, property owners in Michigan are required to maintain their trees and take reasonable steps to prevent damage to neighboring properties. If a tree or large branch is known to be hazardous and hasn’t been maintained, you could be held liable if it causes damage during a storm.

5. What steps should I take immediately after a storm if a tree has fallen on my property?
Answer:

1. Ensure safety: Make sure everyone is safe and that there are no downed power lines near the tree. If you notice power lines, contact your utility provider immediately.

2. Document the damage: Take photos of the fallen tree and any damage it caused, as this can help in insurance claims.

3. Notify your insurance: If the tree caused damage to your home or structures, contact your insurance provider to report the damage.

4. Contact professionals: Reach out to a certified tree removal service to safely remove the tree. Make sure the service is insured and has the proper equipment to handle the removal.

6. Can I remove the tree myself, or do I need a professional service?
Answer: While you can technically remove the tree yourself, it is highly recommended to hire a professional tree removal service due to the danger involved in cutting down or removing large trees, especially after storms. Professionals have the proper tools and training to remove the tree safely and minimize further damage.

7. Does the city or local government handle tree removal after a storm?
Answer: In Michigan, the local government may handle the removal of trees that have fallen on public property, such as sidewalks, roads, or parks. However, they typically do not remove trees from private property. It is your responsibility to arrange for removal if the tree is on your property.

8. What if a tree falls on the property line or into a public area?
Answer: If a tree falls across a property line, both property owners are generally responsible for removing the portion of the tree that is on their land. If it falls into a public area, the local government may handle the removal, but the property owner may still be responsible for their portion if it caused damage.

9. Are there any state or local resources available to help with tree removal costs after a storm?
Answer: Michigan does not typically offer state funding for tree removal after a storm, unless a state of emergency is declared. In certain cases, local municipalities may offer assistance or discounted rates for tree removal during widespread storm recovery. You can check with your city or county for potential programs.

10. Can I claim tree removal as a tax deduction?
Answer: Generally, tree removal expenses are not tax-deductible unless the tree was removed as part of a larger repair to your home due to storm damage. Consult with a tax professional to see if any specific circumstances apply to your case.

My brother started his tree business almost 10 years ago. His tree service now has over 140 - 5 Star reviews on Google. He can cut a tree so well that he could mark the ground with a pencil and have the tree land directly on it. My career has mostly been in sales and marketing, but I’ve helped with many tree jobs over the years. In the spring of 2024, storms hit Southwest Michigan as if we were in tornado alley. Specifically Portage, where it tore through retail areas and neighborhoods, including my dad’s. When assessing the damage I saw tree services from other states, mowing companies offering tree services, roofing companies chasing insurance jobs, insurance companies leaving their clients in the dark about their coverages, and adjusters causing headaches.

Inspired by my brother, I decided to start my own small business with the goal being to quickly and confidently provide those in my surrounding communities with a trusted option during emergency situations requiring tree removal.

I will provide a trusted partnership for Michigan Small Business Owners and continue to build trust in our brand and our community.

911TreeGuys.com is operated in Kalamazoo, MI. We connect the Southwest Michigan Community with Local Tree Companies who are reputable and able to assess emergency tree damage immediately following inclement weather.

The Tree Service Companies partnered with 911 Tree Guys are required to provide you with the following

• Proof of Insurance

• Contact Information

• Written Estimate

• Safety Plan

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Cleanup and Disposal Plan

• Service Agreement

• Payment Terms

911 Tree Guys LLC will not be performing the tree services. We are the dispatcher for several tree service companies when storms hit throughout Michigan.

No. 911TreeGuys.com or 911 Tree Guys LLC does not perform tree removal services.