How do I value a damaged tree for insurance purposes?

Question

Long story short, a guy ran his car off the road into my front yard and hit a tree. The tree is a complete loss. He has insurance (thank god!). How much should I expect to receive from the insurance company for the value of the tree? The tree is a mature Blue Spruce. It was about 20-25 feet tall, had an 8-10 inch trunk, and a spread at the base of about 15 feet or so. I know that I should at least be entitled to the cost of removing the tree/debris and planting a new tree. But you can’t really plant a 25 foot Blue Spruce! So, the problem I am having is determining what value should I be entitled to considering the “maturity” of the tree? Who can I call to get an “appraisal”? Can someone who is in the insurance industry or with tree appraisal experience give me a ball park figure given the info I have provided? Other info: I live in a subdivision of custom brick homes on a large lot (about 1 acre) and my home is worth about $275k.

Answer 1

Call an arborist.

Answer 2

An arborist might be able to help SAVE the tree but not sure if he would know that value - and don't think that "tree service" guys are arborists!

Check around in your area for nurseries that specialize in trees.  You'd be surprised at how big of a tree that you can buy and have transplanted to your location!

My son found a place near him that grow trees "above ground" in huge pots.  They deliver them to you location and have a large "scoop" that digs out the dirt and then they set this root ball in - and we're talking about a root ball that was about 4 feet across or bigger!

You also need to figure the economic impact on your house due to increased heating and cooling of the home.  I have a huge pecan tree in the front of house that I would be devastated to lose - as my house faces the West and it would be in total sun from Noon on if it were not for that tree!

You might have to talk with your electricity provider for this type of info - but it IS something that I would consider!

Good luck and I hope this helps!