Do I Need an Arborist Letter for My Insurance Claim?
A Homeowner Asked:
“A tree was damaged during a storm, and I’m filing an insurance claim. Do I need an arborist letter or report for my insurance company?”
Team Lemon's Answer
Maybe — but check with your insurance company before requesting one. Every insurance claim is different, and your insurer or adjuster should tell you what documentation they need to evaluate your particular claim.
In some situations, an insurance company may ask for professional documentation describing a tree’s condition, visible damage, or recommended work. In others, photographs, estimates, or other documentation may be enough.
Before scheduling an evaluation specifically for an insurance claim, ask your insurer exactly what they require and whether the documentation needs to come from a particular type of tree professional.
Why Might an Insurance Company Ask for Tree Documentation?
When a tree or large branch damages a home, vehicle, fence, garage, or other property, there can be questions about what happened and the condition of the tree.
Professional tree documentation may be used to describe:
- The tree’s current condition
- Visible storm damage
- Broken or hanging branches
- Cracks, splits, or other structural concerns
- Signs of previous decline or damage
- The location of the tree and surrounding property
- Recommended tree work
- Whether removal or pruning may be appropriate
Exactly what information is needed depends on the insurance company and the circumstances of the claim.
That’s why your insurer should be your first call when determining what documentation to obtain.
What Should I Ask My Insurance Company?
Before requesting an arborist letter or tree evaluation, ask your insurer:
✓ Do you need written documentation about the tree?
✓ Are photographs or a tree removal estimate sufficient?
✓ Do you specifically require an arborist report or letter?
✓ Are there qualifications the person providing the documentation must have?
✓ Is there particular information the report needs to include?
✓ Do you need documentation before damaged branches or the tree are removed?
✓ Is there a deadline for submitting the information?
Getting those answers first can help prevent delays and make sure you obtain the type of documentation your claim actually requires.
🍋 Team Lemon Tip
Document the Damage Before Cleanup Begins
If it’s safe to do so, take photographs of the tree and surrounding damage before cleanup or removal begins.
Try to document:
- The overall tree
- Broken or fallen branches
- Visible trunk damage
- Where the tree or branch landed
- Damage to your home or other structures
- The surrounding area
But don’t put yourself underneath a damaged tree or hanging branch just to get a better photograph.
If the area isn’t safe to approach, stay back and let the appropriate professionals evaluate it.
And if emergency work needs to happen immediately to protect people or property, follow the instructions provided by your insurer regarding documentation whenever circumstances allow.
Is an Estimate the Same as an Arborist Letter?
Not necessarily.
A tree service estimate generally describes the work being recommended and what that work may cost.
An arborist letter or report may be requested for a different purpose, such as documenting observations about the tree’s condition or damage.
Depending on your claim, your insurance company might ask for:
- Photographs
- A tree service estimate
- An invoice for completed work
- Written observations about the tree
- A formal arborist letter or report
- Some combination of these items
Don’t assume one document will automatically satisfy another requirement.
Ask your adjuster what they need before requesting specific documentation.
When Should I Schedule a Tree Evaluation?
If your insurer has requested professional tree documentation — or the damaged tree itself presents a concern — it’s time to have the situation evaluated.
Schedule a Tree Evaluation If…
Your Insurer Requests Documentation
Find out exactly what type of documentation is required and communicate those requirements when scheduling the evaluation.
Large Branches Are Broken or Hanging
Storm-damaged limbs can create a safety concern regardless of the insurance claim.
The Tree Damaged Your Home or Property
A professional evaluation can help identify visible tree damage and determine what tree work may be needed.
The Trunk Is Cracked or Split
Significant structural damage should be evaluated, particularly when the tree is near your home or another frequently used area.
The Tree Changed After the Storm
A new lean, shifted root area, broken major limb, or other significant change deserves attention.
You're Unsure Whether the Tree Is Safe
Insurance documentation may be one concern, but the condition of the remaining tree is important too.
Your insurance company determines what documentation is required for your claim.
If they request information about the tree, a professional tree evaluation can help document visible conditions and determine what tree work may be appropriate.
Related Tree Care Resources
Tree Removal Cost Guide for Overland Park, KS
How to Protect Your Trees During Harsh Kansas City Winter Weather
Pruning 101: Giving Your Trees a Fresh Cut for Fall
How Happy Lemon Can Help
If a storm has damaged a tree on your property, Happy Lemon Tree Service can evaluate the tree, identify visible damage, and recommend appropriate pruning, removal, or other tree work.
If your insurance company has requested specific tree documentation, let Team Lemon know what your insurer is asking for when you contact us so we can determine how we may be able to help.
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Dealing With Tree Damage After a Storm?
Let Team Lemon Take a Look.
Every storm, tree, and insurance claim is different. If your insurer has requested information about a damaged tree — or you're concerned about whether the tree is safe — Happy Lemon Tree Service can evaluate the situation and help you determine the appropriate next step.
Request a Free Estimate