Product Enhancements (Removal of Trees)

We all grow up with a deep respect for plants, nature and, in particular, the importance of trees in our ecosystem. We are also greatly saddened at the loss of trees in recent incidents such as the Knysna fires, Amazon fires, Table Mountain fires in Cape Town and deeply saddened to see the aftermath of such devastation.

In our efforts of urbanisation, and wild vegetation growth, in particularly dense vegetation, we need to carefully consider the property on which we reside and work, and the proximity of trees and what potential impact they may have on your property, if any.

This means that we evaluate:

• the type, size and root system of trees on the property;
• the proximity of buildings, walls and driveways to the trees;
• the age and condition of the tree; and
• any other damage the tree could cause to underground pipes, swimming pools, tennis courts and any other structure below or above the ground.

The situation can also be progressively more severe in dense vegetation areas where vegetation grows wild and is not on your property, but a threat to your property. In the KZN region, for example, there are many homes that border on municipal property which is overgrown and poses a threat to your building. In these instances, it is necessary to involve the municipality in removing the tree.

Trees which grow against walls with roots spread to the neighbouring property will involve the neighbouring property and its owners. It is not only the damage caused by the fallen tree but also the exposed roots that cause damage to driveways, walls, swimming pools and other property.

If you have ever had to remove a tree you will have experienced the costly exercise depending on the size and location of the tree on the property.

The key issue, however, is that prevention is better than cure, and therefore prudent to have a tree removed, before it falls and causes additional damage to buildings and other property. We tend to underestimate the weight of a tree and the damage it can cause, therefore when trees are removed all these factors can be considered so that the correct equipment is used in the process to minimise damage.

To protect your property, MUA not only provides cover for the removal of fallen trees, but also for those trees that pose a risk to your buildings. This minimises the risk of further damage and higher costs. There is a stated limit on the policy schedule of the cost MUA will pay in these circumstances, so best to check your policy.

In areas that are prone to seasonal storms, a further preventative measure is to identify trees that pose danger. After a storm, it is then again necessary to check the surrounding trees as their condition may have changed during the storm and where they previously did not pose a threat. This can include anything from weakened and overhanging branches to exposed roots which may cause movement if the tree is positioned on a slope.

Please do take care and check the trees on and surrounding your property to avoid expensive claims.