If my neighbor’s big tree fell in my back yard and took out the powerline that connects to my house and power box at my house, what do I do?
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If my neighbor’s big tree fell in my back yard and took out the powerline that connects to my house and power box at my house, what do I do?
Asked on May 5, 2011 under Real Estate Law, Alabama
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
1) First contact the power company; the most important thing is to get it fixed. Also, they might fix it free of charge (to you; they may look to collect from the neighbor).
2) If the utility charges you for the cost of repairs, then put in a claim against your homeowner's insurance as the easiest way to get reimbursement or compensation.
3) If your insurer denies your claim, ask them why; if you are not persuaded by their reason, you could appeal it through their own process and/or bring a legal action to force them to pay. Alternately, you could--
4) Try to sue the neighbor, IF the neighbor was in some way negligent or at fault--e.g. the try was obviously too big, too old, too sick, that branch dead, etc., but they did not take responsible or appropriate action.
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