Removing a fallen tree can cost anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars. Under certain circumstances, your Florida homeowners insurance will cover the cost of tree removal after a storm, but not every time.

A Florida independent insurance agent can help you obtain homeowners coverage that includes tree removal and any additional protection you may need. 

What Is Florida Storm Insurance?

Storm insurance is part of your Florida homeowners insurance policy that protects your property and your belongings if they're damaged by a storm.

In the event of a windstorm, hail, hurricane, tornado or similar event your homeowners policy will pay to repair or replace your home and other structures on your property as well as your personal possessions.

3 most hurricane-prone areas in Florida

What Does Storm Insurance Cover In Florida?

Insurance carriers will have a list of weather-related events that are considered a storm. Your Florida independent insurance agent can discuss your individual policy, but typically the following events will be covered by your storm insurance.

• Wind
• Hail
• Lightning
• Fire
• Wind-driven rain or snow
• Falling trees
• Additional living expenses

Hurricanes, tropical storms, and severe storms are among the top five risks for homeowners in Florida. Having the proper homeowners insurance can save you from financial turmoil in the event of a storm.

What Isn't Covered By Storm Insurance in Florida?

Storm insurance is exposed to the same exclusions as homeowners insurance. Most importantly, related to storms, standard insurance will not cover any damage from flooding or earthquakes.

Flood insurance can be purchased from the National Flood Insurance Program, which partners with insurance carriers and independent agents across the US to provide coverage to homeowners.

Your Florida independent insurance agent can help you purchase flood and earthquake insurance. 

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Tree Removal after a Storm in Florida?

Most of the time, homeowners insurance will cover tree removal after a storm. However, insurance expert Paul Martin explained that it's not always guaranteed.

"There is typically some coverage built in for certain circumstances. Generally, if the tree caused damage to the property or it is blocking a driveway, then removal will be covered," said Martin.

Even when tree removal is covered, there is typically a cap on the amount of money the insurance company will spend to remove each tree. 

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Damage after a Storm?

Replacing a roof can cost tens of thousands of dollars, which is why it's beneficial to know that your Florida homeowners insurance policy will pay to repair or replace a roof damaged by a storm.

"Some homeowners policies will provide the home with a new roof, but it's become more common for insurance companies to put an actual cash value on the roof," explained Martin.

This means that the insurance company will replace your roof, but will only pay up to the value of your current roof before it was destroyed. The remaining costs must be paid out of pocket by the homeowner.

Average cost of roof replacement by location

How a Florida Independent Insurance Agent Can Help You

More than 40% of hurricanes in the US make landfall in some part of Florida. Protecting your home and your belongings from storm damage with proper homeowners insurance is necessary.

A Florida independent insurance agent will talk with you, free of charge, about your home and your insurance needs. They can help you secure a policy that adequately covers your property and any potential damage a storm may cause.