When homeowners think about curb appeal, landscaping is often at the top of the list. A lush lawn, shade trees, and colorful plants can add beauty and value to your property—not to mention privacy and comfort. But while a well-landscaped yard can be a major asset, certain landscaping choices can actually put your home at risk and lead to unexpected insurance complications.
From invasive plants to drainage issues, your outdoor environment plays a bigger role in home safety—and your insurance coverage—than you might think. Understanding these hidden risks can help you make smarter landscaping decisions that keep your property protected and your insurance intact.
1. Trees and Shrubs Too Close to the House
Planting trees and large shrubs near your home might seem like a good way to create shade or privacy, but it can backfire if you’re not careful. Roots from mature trees can cause serious damage to your foundation, sidewalks, or underground plumbing. In some cases, insurers may deny claims related to this kind of damage if it’s considered preventable.
Overhanging limbs are another concern. During a storm, heavy branches can fall onto your roof or power lines, leading to property damage or even injury. If the tree was dead, diseased, or poorly maintained, your insurance company might argue that the damage could have been avoided—and reduce or deny your payout.
Tip: Maintain a safe distance between trees and structures, and regularly prune limbs that overhang your roof or utility lines. Have dead or weakened trees professionally removed.
2. Invasive Plants That Cause Structural Damage
Some fast-growing or ornamental plants might look beautiful, but they can become a nightmare for homeowners—and insurance providers. Ivy, bamboo, and wisteria are common examples of plants that can grow into siding, roofs, or tiny cracks in walls, creating hidden damage that escalates over time.
Because this type of damage is gradual and often due to lack of maintenance, it’s rarely covered by homeowners insurance. Insurers typically exclude coverage for damage caused by neglect, pests, or preventable wear and tear—including issues created by aggressive or unmanaged vegetation.
Tip: Avoid planting invasive species near your home. If you already have them, monitor growth closely and remove any vegetation that threatens your home’s structure or systems.
3. Fire Hazards from Poor Landscaping
In many parts of the country—especially areas prone to wildfires—landscaping can be a make-or-break factor in how well a home withstands a fire. Dry brush, overgrown shrubs, and low-hanging tree limbs can act as fuel, making it easier for flames to reach your home. Even mulch placed too close to a structure can ignite under the right conditions.
Many insurance companies now consider defensible space when evaluating risk. This is a buffer zone between a structure and any flammable vegetation. If your property lacks this fire-safe perimeter, you could face higher premiums—or be denied coverage altogether.
Tip: Clear dry debris regularly, keep trees and shrubs trimmed, and maintain at least 30 feet of defensible space around your home. If you live in a wildfire-prone area, ask your insurance provider if additional requirements apply.
4. Drainage and Grading Problems
A poorly designed yard may not seem like a big deal—until the first major rainstorm. If your landscaping directs water toward your home instead of away from it, you could end up with flooded basements, foundation damage, or mold growth. While some homeowners insurance policies cover water damage caused by sudden, accidental incidents, they often exclude damage caused by poor drainage or grading.
This becomes even more important if your area isn’t designated a flood zone, but you still experience runoff or pooling after storms. Insurers may determine the damage was preventable and deny your claim, leaving you with thousands in repair costs.
Tip: Make sure your yard is properly graded so that water flows away from your home’s foundation. Install downspout extensions or French drains if needed, and consider professional landscaping advice for problem areas.
5. Pools, Ponds, and Water Features
Backyard water features like pools, ponds, and fountains can turn your property into a relaxing oasis—but they also come with significant insurance considerations. Pools and ponds, in particular, pose liability risks for accidents, especially if proper safety measures aren’t in place. Slips, falls, and even drownings can lead to costly lawsuits, and your homeowners policy may require additional liability coverage or safety inspections.
Some insurers may increase your premiums or require you to install protective features like fencing, locking gates, or safety covers. Failure to meet those requirements could result in a denial of liability claims or even cancellation of your policy.
Tip: If you install or purchase a home with a pool or pond, notify your insurance provider immediately. Ask about coverage requirements and consider an umbrella policy for extra liability protection.
6. Tips for Insurance-Smart Landscaping
Smart landscaping isn’t just about beauty—it’s about protecting your home and ensuring your insurance will be there when you need it. Here are some ways to stay proactive:
- Plant strategically. Keep large trees and shrubs well away from your foundation, siding, and roof.
- Avoid invasives. Choose native, non-invasive species that are less likely to damage structures or require excessive maintenance.
- Maintain defensible space. Especially in wildfire-prone areas, keep brush and vegetation trimmed and clear around your home.
- Check drainage. Ensure your property is graded to direct water away from your home and avoid pooling.
- Secure water features. Install required fencing or barriers around pools and ponds, and confirm your liability coverage is sufficient.
- Talk to your insurer. Before making big landscaping changes, consult with your insurance agent to understand how they may affect your coverage.
Conclusion
Landscaping can enhance your home’s value, curb appeal, and comfort—but it can also introduce risks that affect your homeowners insurance. From tree damage to drainage issues and liability concerns, what you plant and where you plant it matters more than you might think.
By staying informed and making smart landscaping choices, you can avoid costly surprises and ensure your insurance will protect you when it counts.
Have questions about how your yard might affect your coverage? Contact the experts at Fassbender Insurance today for a personalized policy review and advice tailored to your property.