We had a short but violent windstorm yesterday and a tree on my property thrashed around so much that it smashed into my neighbor’s chimney, causing significant damage. The tree didn’t break or fall, but knocked a couple dozen bricks off their chimney. I’d imagine it will cost maybe a few thousand to fix? (I’m just guessing on the cost)
What’s my liability here? Is this something where they will file a claim with their homeowners insurance and they’ll contact my insurance company and they’ll just work it out? Or should I be taking steps now before any claims are made?
I like my neighbors and want to stay on good terms with them, so I wouldn’t mind just paying for some or most of the repairs, but I’m not sure how to approach it.
I don’t know if this is relevant but there is no proof that my tree did the damage. Like I said, no branches fell off, there are just lots of bricks on the ground around the base.
Posted by werby
1 Comment
Unless you’re somehow have powers the rest of us mortals don’t have and can control the wind, you have no liability here as you had no negligence. Your homeowners insurance would almost certainly deny any claim made against you. Your neighbor will need to use his insurance for his damages.