Trees don’t last forever, and they can cause major issues when they stay up too long. When trees are damaged, decaying, or otherwise vulnerable, they’re more likely to fall and harm someone or damage property. Read on to learn who is responsible for tree removal in Athens, GA, so you’ll know when to contact Cowart Tree Service LLC.

Where Is The Tree?

Who is responsible for tree maintenance and removal depends on whose property the tree is located on. If a tree lies completely within the bounds of one property, that property owner maintains full responsibility for it. If the tree sits directly on a dividing line between two properties, both owners should take responsibility for its maintenance. Additionally, if a tree’s branches hang into a neighboring yard, the owners of that yard reserve the right to trim branches provided they do not harm the tree.

Why Did The Tree Fall?

Act Of God

Tree falls are not always preventable. When storms hit Athens, for example, strong winds and rain can knock trees over. In Georgia, the state views events like these as “acts of God” which could not have been prevented had property owners made different decisions. While insurance will usually provide coverage for the incident, you are responsible for removing debris on your property even if the tree belonged to a neighbor.

Negligence

On the other end of the spectrum, certain tree falling incidents are the direct result of negligence on the part of the person to whom the tree belongs. In Georgia, property owners may be considered liable if a tree falls and:

It was visibly rotting or decaying
Dead or dying branches were visibly hazardous
The tree owner was informed in writing that the tree posed risks and neglected to take action

When Do Trees Need To Be Removed?

Some reasons a tree may need to be removed include:

Structural damage
Advanced decay
Disease
Severe/dangerous leaning
Damaged roots

In general, if over half of a tree is damaged or otherwise unhealthy, it is no longer salvageable and should be removed.

Is Tree Removal Always The Answer?

No. Damaged or diseased trees do not always need to be removed. A tree care company

can evaluate your tree to determine if pruning or other treatments would remedy the problem.

What Should I Do If My Neighbor Has An Unsafe Tree?

If a neighboring property has a tree or trees that appear perilous, you can take the following steps to protect yourself:

Document the tree(s) with photographic evidence
Express written concern informing your neighbor about the problem
Review your insurance company’s policy regarding tree damage
Document any and all communication you have with your neighbor about the tree(s)

Can I Remove A Tree Myself?

Removing a tree yourself is not advisable. Professional tree care services have the expertise, experience, and equipment to remove trees safely.

Schedule Tree Removal With Cowart Tree Service LLC

Whether your tree is hazardous or simply unattractive, call Cowart Tree Service LLC for help. We’ll deliver tree care and maintenance services you can count on, from trimming to pruning to removal.