This has been happening for a few years now. Now my garage door will not open. I made a claim with Alstate. They turned it down without even looking at it. Is this normal for everyone else?
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This is normal as it's an issue of maintenance not an "Act of God". The only way Allstate "might" cover it, is if there's a storm and lightening strikes the tree and it crashes into your garage. Unfortunately, whoever you made the claim to probably has a note in there that the tree is already trouble and they could turn you down.
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Most homeowners policies exclude damage that happens over a period of weeks, months and/or years. They also exclude foundation problems. I would not expect this type of loss to be covered.
You should have had the tree cut down as soon as you first noticed the problem.
If the adjuster that came out and inspected the property - he/she may also alert the underwriting department of the issue. The underwriting department could non-renew your policy until you get the issue fixed.
It probably would have been a better idea to discuss it with your agent. They would have told you that it is not covered - then you would not have reported the claim....underwriting would not be notified and you may not get canceled.
So, plan on getting the problem fixed in the near future at your own expense.
Sorry to state the obvious, but next time you see an issue, address it as soon as you find it. Don't let it get worse thinking insurance will pay for it. Because insurance may not pay for it. And letting the problem go uncorrected only makes it more expensive to fix.
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Yes. Your failure to cut down your tree, is a maintenance issue.
Insurance is for sudden and accidental claims.
Maintain your property. Cut down the tree.
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Yes. They will not cover (sorry to say this) bad maintenance repairs. The trees on your lot are yours to maintain, trim root removal, over hanging branches etc. If you never check your oil and blow your head gaskets should your car insurance pay?
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Yes. This is an avoidable maintenance issue that you should have taken care of before the damage occured.