After powerful storms like the Blizzard of ’26 that paralyzed the SouthCoast in February, many homeowners are left asking the same question when trees fall during severe weather.
Who Is Responsible for Cleaning Up the Damage?
With hurricane force winds and more than three feet of heavy, wet snow, the SouthCoast suffered our fair share of downed trees, many of them can still be seeing laying near the edge of the road. With so many downed trees, it is important to understand how homeowners insurance and Massachusetts law typically handle situations involving fallen trees.
Needless to say, every homeowners policy reads differently and coverage depends on the specific language within your policy. That being said, here is how situations like this are usually handled.
When a Neighbor’s Tree Falls Into Your Yard Without Damage
If a healthy tree in your neighbor’s yard falls into your yard, but does not damage any structures on your property, you are generally responsible for removing the tree.
It is similar to leaves or small branches from the same tree landing in your yard. There is usually no expectation that your neighbor would ever clean them up…