Fallen Trees and Insurance Claims: What Tennessee Homeowners Really Need to Know

The Moment You Hear the CRACK…

That heart-stopping sound of wood splitting during a storm. The kind of noise that makes you freeze, hoping it’s just a branch. But then you see it: the tree, now horizontal. Across your driveway. On your garage. Or worse, tangled in power lines.

Now what?

Here’s the truth: you don’t need more stress. You need a plan, a partner, and some peace of mind. That’s where we come in.

Let’s Cut Through the Confusion

We know insurance jargon isn’t exactly thrilling reading material. But when a tree hits your roof at 2:00 AM, suddenly the fine print really matters. That’s why we’re breaking this down into three clear, manageable parts:

1. What causes trees to fall in our part of Tennessee and how to see it coming
2. What insurance typically covers (and doesn’t) when it happens
3. What to do right now and how Stump Eater Tree Service makes this whole mess manageable

Let’s dig in.

Part 1: Why Do Trees Fall Here, and Could Yours Be Next?

Think of your property like a chessboard. Trees are your queens: majestic, powerful, and occasionally unpredictable.

In Rutherford County, we’re no strangers to:

• Tornadoes sweeping through Murfreesboro
• Saturated soil softening roots after spring downpours
• Summer lightning storms zapping already stressed branches
• Heavy winds toppling trees weakened by pests or disease

The reality is, a tree might look strong above ground, but below? Think of it like a soda straw in a puddle. It can tip over with surprisingly little force.

Before: “That tree’s been leaning for years. It’s probably fine.”
After: “We had it inspected last fall and removed it before it became a problem.”

Part 2: Will Insurance Pay for That Fallen Tree?

Short answer: sometimes, yes.
Long answer: it depends on what the tree hit, why it fell, and what shape it was in beforehand.

Typically covered:

• Tree damages your home, fence, garage, or other insured structure
• Removal costs if the tree caused covered damage
• Emergency removal if it blocks access or creates a hazard

Typically not covered:

• Tree falls harmlessly in your yard (unless cleanup is part of your policy)
• Pre-existing neglect (dead, diseased, or visibly leaning trees not removed in time)
• Trees that fall from a neighbor’s property (unless they were proven negligent)

Think of insurance like a fire extinguisher. It helps when things go wrong unexpectedly, but it’s not a free pass for skipped maintenance.

Part 3: What to Do Immediately After a Tree Falls

Time matters. Panic does not help. Here’s your calm, clear action plan:

1. Secure the scene. Stay safe. Watch for downed wires and unstable limbs.
2. Document everything. Take photos and video with timestamps, if possible.
3. Call your insurance agent. File the claim, but do not move the tree yet.
4. Call Stump Eater Tree Service. We’re available 24/7 for storm emergencies.

We do more than clear debris. We create clarity. Our team provides the documentation your insurer needs, helps you understand the terminology, and even supports communication with your insurance company if needed.

Before: “I have no idea who to call. Is this even covered?”
After: “Stump Eater handled it before I could panic. They even helped me file my claim.”

Bonus: How to Prevent the Next Emergency

You don’t wait for your car to break down on the interstate.  You get it serviced. Your trees deserve the same attention.

Here’s how we help you stay ahead of the next storm:

• Risk assessments for leaning, diseased, or dead trees
• Proactive trimming to reduce wind resistance
• Strategic removal of hazardous trees near structures
• Health care plans for long-term tree stability

This is not just about removing threats. It’s about protecting your peace of mind.

Why Stump Eater Tree Service Is the First Call You Should Make

When disaster strikes, you don’t want a contractor. You want a partner.

We are:

• Local, born and rooted in Murfreesboro
• Family-owned, with three generations of experience
• Reviewed by hundreds of happy neighbors (over 275 five-star reviews)
• Fully licensed, insured, and equipped for emergency tree removal

Before: Frustrated by no-shows, fine print, and long hold times
After: “They answered on the first ring, showed up the same day, and handled everything.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Does insurance cover removing the whole tree or just the part that hit the house?
Usually just the part that caused the damage, unless the tree blocked access or poses an ongoing risk.

Will my premiums go up if I file a tree-related claim?
That depends on your provider, but storm damage is generally considered “no fault.”

What if it’s my neighbor’s tree?
If they were warned the tree was dangerous and didn’t act, their insurance might be responsible.

Do I need a permit to remove a tree after a storm?
Not for emergency removals. We handle permits if needed for larger follow-up work.

Can you work directly with my insurance?
Absolutely. We’ve done this many times and know exactly what documentation and communication your provider needs.

Final Thought: Don’t Let a Fallen Tree Uproot Your Peace

If a tree just fell or you’re staring at one that looks like it might, call us today. Even better, let us look at your property before the next storm rolls in.

Visit or call Stump Eater Tree Service to see how your neighbors trust us in emergencies. Let’s get your yard and your peace of mind back.

<p>The post Fallen Trees and Insurance Claims: What Tennessee Homeowners Really Need to Know first appeared on Stump Eater Tree Service.</p>

source https://stumpeater.com/fallen-trees-and-insurance-claims/