{
  "id": 6435440,
  "title": "Standfest bei Wind und Sturm?: Wichtige Kontrolle: So vermeiden Baum-Eigner Haftungsrisiken",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/09/standfest-bei-wind-und-sturm-wichtige-kontrolle-so-vermeiden-baum",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-09-09T15:24:45.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Handelsblatt",
    "slug": "handelsblatt",
    "url": "https://www.handelsblatt.com/finanzen/steuern-recht/standfest-bei-wind-und-sturm-wichtige-kontrolle-so-vermeiden-baum-eigner-haftungsrisiken/100253328.html"
  },
  "original_language": "de",
  "account": "Trees on one's own property provide shade and privacy, but they also require maintenance. Owners must inspect their trees at least once a year and after any severe weather, according to the \"Stiftung Warentest Finanzen\" magazine's October 2026 issue. This is because property owners have a general duty to ensure their trees do not pose a risk, such as falling or shedding branches. Failure to do so could make them liable for damages. The magazine advises documenting each inspection with photos, especially for deciduous trees, as some damages are only visible at certain times of the year. If an owner notices a problem or is unsure, they should consult an expert. If a branch or tree falls onto a neighbor's fence or car due to a violation of this duty, the owner is liable. However, if a healthy tree is uprooted by natural forces, the owner is generally not liable. The court will determine liability if they find a duty violation, but for privately owned land, private liability insurance typically covers the damage. In some cases, the homeowner's building insurance or a replanting cost may cover the removal or replacement of the fallen tree. It's also important to check one's insurance policies or contact the insurer to understand the specifics. Some communities have tree protection ordinances that prohibit the removal of certain trees, healthy or diseased, regardless of liability. In such cases, an application to the local authority may be necessary. The magazine recommends hiring a professional to remove or dispose of fallen trees, as they are familiar with local regulations.",
  "summary": "Ein Ast vom eigenen Baum kracht aufs Nachbarauto - und plötzlich flattert eine teure Reparatur-Rechnung ins Haus. Um dem vorzubeugen, sollten Besitzerinnen und Besitzer ihren Bestand prüfen.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}