Are homeowners responsible for accidents related to tree care work being performed on their property? Unfortunately, the answer isn’t simple. It depends on several factors, including state law, the circumstances of the accident and the type of insurance coverage the homeowner and contractor each possess.
“Liability is a complicated issue, but even so, there are several steps all homeowners can take to reduce the risk of litigation,” says Tchukki Andersen, BCMA, CTSP* and staff arborist with the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA). “Tree work can be dangerous, even for experienced professionals, so homeowners should always take extra precautions to ensure their assets are protected.”