Storm-proofing your home: Essential tips for hurricane preparedness
Learn how to protect your home from hurricanes with these essential tips on tree maintenance, stormwater system care and securing outdoor objects.
Delaware property owners are generally responsible for damage caused by trees on their property, even during storms.Street trees, though located between the sidewalk and curb, are usually considered the responsibility of the adjacent property owner.Proper pruning, watering, and soil maintenance can help prevent tree falls.
All across Delaware, storm season has arrived.
Ferocious winds, pouring rain and even a tornado have hit Delaware so far during the 2025 summer.
The natural elements have led to many toppling trees − both a danger and a potentially hefty expense.
But who is responsible for paying to fix tree damage in Delaware? And how can it be avoided?
Who fixes tree damage in a residential area?
The damage a fallen tree causes generally falls upon the property owner.
In New Castle County, any instance in which a tree that exists on one’s property falls means that the property owner is liable. This includes during storms, in which the tree falls due to no fault of the property owner.
What happens if the tree falls on a neighbor’s property?
It depends on the scenario.
In a storm, local insurance company Staples and Associates points out that liability then falls upon the neighbor, due to the storm not being “at fault.”
However, there are some instances in which the damage would fall upon the property owner if their tree topples onto a neighbor.
If a tree is found to be decaying and not properly taken care of, the insurance company said the property owner can be at fault. This would have to be proven through evidence of improper maintenance of the tree.
What about in the city?
In cities across Delaware, “street trees” are planted. In Wilmington, these trees are usually between the sidewalk and the curb and generally sit in a “pit.”
You would think these trees would not be the property owner’s responsibility because they do not lie specifically on their property. However, according to the city, these trees are considered the property of the adjacent property owner.
This would essentially mean that the same rules apply. If a “street tree” falls on your property, you become liable. And if it falls upon your neighbor’s property, they would be liable, unless the tree is found to be not properly maintained.
How can I prevent my tree from falling?
To ensure your tree’s health and stability, make sure it is properly pruned. Decaying branches can spread to the rest of the tree, preventing growth. Many businesses in the area offer pruning services.
It’s also important to make sure your tree is receiving proper watering and good soil. Too much or too little of these essential nutrients could lead to health issues for the tree, and therefore its demise.
For more information on how to take care of your tree, the tree planting nonprofit “The Arbor Day Foundation” has provided a guide.
Adam Denn is a general assignments reporter for Delaware Online/The News Journal. You can reach him at ADenn@gannett.com.