Florence has left downed trees across the metro area.
So what do you do if a tree falls on your house? Street? Neighbor's yard?
If a tree falls onto your home/property
• First, leave your property if the downed tree has created a dangerous situation.
• Next, contact your homeowners insurance. If the tree fell on your home due to an act of nature, the damage should be covered by most policies. However, be prepared to face the cost alone if the tree doesn't actually land on your home. Some insurance holders have found they're responsible for the full cost of its removal if it lands in their yard and not on a fence, patio, garage or the home.
• Did the tree fall from a neighbor's yard? You'll still need to file the insurance claim. It's the responsibility of the homeowner where the tree landed to remove the tree and fix damages.
If a tree falls on your car
• Contact your auto insurance. The claim should be covered under comprehensive coverage.
• Once again, if it's your car, it's your claim, even if the tree falls from a neighbor's yard.
If you come across a downed tree on a roadway/highway
• If the tree has fallen on a roadway, highway or other area that could create a dangerous situation, call 911.
PHOTOS: Florence flooding the Carolinas
