It is a complicated and often frustrating situation. A large tree is in danger of causing property damage if it is not removed. Homeowners' insurance does not cover the removal fees. They will only pay for the damage caused by a tree that falls on its own. Of course, if the insurance company decides the fallen tree was something the homeowner could have avoided they may deny the claim. This leaves homeowners with no choice but to pay for the removal rather than risk damage to their home or potential injuries from a hazardous tree.

Tree removal is an expensive task and one that leads some homeowners to make unsafe choices. It is always better to hire professionals instead of risking the additional expense of hospital bills and home repairs. Here are some safer ways to reduce the overall cost of a tree removal.

Look for Alternatives

Some trees may seem too damaged to save but a skilled arborist may see it differently. Pruning dead limbs and repairing weak ones may preserve the tree and cost much less than a full removal. If the problem branches are near power lines the utility company may have their own contracted tree service trim the tree. A service that is free for the homeowner. 

Check for Grants

Many communities have grants for replanting trees but some offer help with the removal of dangerous trees as well. Of course, the grants are only available when trees pose a community risk rather than just the risk of falling onto an individual home. This includes diseased trees that threaten healthy trees in the area or dead trees that are a severe fire risk in areas with drought-related problems.

Consider a Sale

Nearly all wood has some value no matter what its condition may be. Consider and compare available options before agreeing to any price. Hardwood is desirable to furniture builders and artists for their projects and the value could exceed the removal cost. Even damaged or soft wood can fetch a few dollars for art projects or firewood.

The fact is that tree removal is expensive but it is much cheaper and safer than the alternative of waiting for it to fall. Even if a storm is the cause of the final "removal" a homeowners' policy may not cover the full cost of the removal and disposal. It is always a good idea to have a tree service visit the property annually. They will provide identify problem trees early on so it will be possible to have the time to plan for a future removal.