A fallen tree at once creates danger, damage and questions. Who should remove the wood? And should you do it yourself or call the municipality? In this article, we simply explain who is liable and when Boomzorgspecialist.nl can help you.
Why does a tree fall down?
Storms, saturated soil or hidden root rot are the main causes. Even a healthy tree can suddenly fall over when its roots lack grip.
Responsibility in any situation
Private property. Is the tree entirely on your land? Then you have to clean it up yourself and pay the costs. If the tree causes damage to your neighbors, your liability insurance will reimburse you if you can prove that you took good care of the tree.
Municipal land. Is the tree on the sidewalk or in the parkway? Then it’s the municipality’s turn. Report it through the trouble line or notification app and don’t go sawing yourself; it’s unsafe and can result in a fine.
Property boundary. Was the tree right on the border? Then you and the neighbors are jointly responsible. Make clear agreements about who will coordinate the job and how the bill will be shared.
What does the law say?
Article 6:162 of the Civil Code states that the possessor of a property is liable for damage caused by that property if he has taken insufficient care to maintain it. An annual tree inspection by an independent specialist helps establish that duty of care.
Clean up yourself or call in a professional?
| Situation | Doing it yourself? | Advice Tree Care Specialist |
|---|---|---|
| Loose branches | ✔️ | Collect them and dispose of them via the gft container |
| Stem diameter | ⚠️ | Saw only with proper personal protective equipment (PPE) |
| Stem diameter > 20 cm or under tension | ❌ | Call 070 – 20 42 085 for safe felling and disposal |
Safety first: A tree can be under great stress. One wrong cut and the wood shoots back. Our certified European Tree Workers have the right equipment and experience.
Costs and possible reimbursements
A cleanup job costs from €250 for minor storm damage and can go up to €1,500+ when heavy equipment is needed. Check your building or home insurance; storm damage is often covered at wind force ≥ 7 if you have regular maintenance done.
Insurance & storm damage
- Take pictures before you start.
- Keep invoices of inspections and pruning.
- Report the damage to your insurer within 48 hours.
Safety and environmental aspects
- Wear helmet, hearing and eye protection.
- Sort wood and green waste separately for reuse as biomass or firewood.
- Check pipes before milling away the rootstock.
Prevention – this is how to prevent falling over
- Have a tree inspection done every year by an ETW-certified specialist.
- Remove swamp infestation and breakage hazards.
- Relieve heavy crown halves with expert crown reduction.
- Improve soil so roots can anchor deeper.
When do you call in Boomzorgspecialist.nl?
Do you doubt the stability or is the tree already down? Request a free, no-obligation tree inspection right away. We will review the risks and send you a customized quote.
Fill out the online form. Our team is available 24/7 for storm damage!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if it is on your property and not contaminated with quarantine organisms.
No, only trees that were on public land.
Immediate danger; insurers require notification within 48 hours.
Also read: What does tree felling in The Hague cost? to see what felling costs in practice.