You don’t expect a regular day to end with a massive tree crushing your car or property. But in a city like Singapore, where heavy rains and strong winds are common, incidents like falling trees aren’t as rare as you’d think.
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of such an incident, you might be frustrated, confused, or wondering if you’ll ever be compensated. So, if you’ve suffered damage from falling trees in Singapore? What to do becomes the next big question.
Let’s break it down in simple terms so you’ll know what your rights are and what steps you can take next.
Who’s Responsible When A Tree Falls?
If a tree falls on your vehicle, home, or property, the first thing you’ll likely ask is: Who’s going to pay for this?
Ownership matters. If the tree was on government land, managed by NParks or a Town Council, you may be able to file a claim. If it were on private property, like a neighbour’s garden or a condo development, then the property owner or managing body might be liable.
However, liability isn’t automatic. To claim damages, you need to show that the owner or authority was negligent. For instance, if they failed to maintain a visibly unstable tree or ignored prior warnings, that’s when they may be held responsible.
When Can You Make A Claim?
You can make a claim only if there’s a clear sign of negligence. In other words, someone must have failed to take reasonable care in maintaining or inspecting the tree.
Let’s say the tree had visible rot, cracks, or was leaning dangerously, and the responsible party (like the Town Council, NParks, or a property owner) didn’t act on it despite knowing or being informed. That’s where they may be legally liable for the damage.
But if the tree was healthy and it toppled due to sudden strong winds or heavy rain, it may be considered a natural incident, and no one might be at fault.
Here are common situations where you might have a valid claim:
- The tree was reported as dangerous weeks before, and nothing was done
- It was visibly diseased or poorly pruned
- Tree maintenance was clearly neglected over time
- The roots were exposed and unstable
In these cases, you could write to the responsible party requesting compensation. If they refuse, and you have enough proof, you may consider taking the matter to Court. But legal advice is recommended before that step, especially if you’re unsure whether your case stands on strong legal ground.
What Evidence Should You Gather?
Your claim is only as strong as your proof. So once it’s safe to do so, gather as much evidence as possible — and do it as quickly as you can while the scene is still fresh.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Photos and videos: Capture multiple angles of the damage, the tree, and its base. Show whether the tree was rotting, cracked, or had broken roots. Visuals are often your best support.
- Exact location: Document precisely where the tree was located — was it within a park, a road verge, a private estate, or near a condominium? This helps identify which party might be responsible.
- Police report: Especially if there’s a vehicle involved or someone got injured. The police record helps formalise the incident and is useful in any claim process.
- Witness statements: If anyone saw the tree fall or had previously flagged it as a hazard, get their account. It could strengthen your argument that the tree was a known danger.
- Receipts and quotes: Keep all repair receipts, towing fees, or medical expenses. You may be able to claim these if the case is successful.
- Previous complaints: If you or your neighbours had lodged complaints before the incident (e.g. with the Town Council or NParks), retrieve any email records or references.
Can I Claim Insurance For Damages Occurred From Falling Trees?
You should always notify your insurance provider as soon as possible. Depending on your policy, you may be covered for damage caused by falling objects, including trees.
Car insurance often includes such clauses under “Acts of God”. Home insurance might as well, if the tree damages part of your building or boundary walls. Just make sure you read the fine print.
If your claim is rejected or you’re unsure about your rights, speaking to a lawyer can help.
Can You Sue For Damages?
Yes, you can sue for damages in Singapore, but only if negligence can be clearly shown. Just because a tree fell on your property doesn’t automatically mean someone else is at fault. You’ll need to prove that the party responsible for the tree failed in their duty of care, and that this failure caused the damage.
Let’s break this down in a practical way.
If the tree was under the care of NParks, a Town Council, or a private property owner, they’re expected to carry out regular checks and maintenance. So if it turns out that the tree was:
- Rotten or visibly unstable,
- Already reported as dangerous and ignored,
- Growing in a way that made it clearly hazardous, and nothing was done — that’s when negligence may be established.
If that applies, you may have legal grounds to sue for:
- The cost of repairs (e.g. car, roof, wall, fencing),
- Medical bills if someone were injured,
- Loss of income if the incident disrupts your work or business.
Conclusion About Suffering Damages From Falling Trees In Singapore
A fallen tree can cause more than just property damage — it brings stress, inconvenience, and sometimes, costly repairs.
But if you’ve suffered damage from falling trees in Singapore? What to Do doesn’t have to remain a mystery. Know your rights, gather proper evidence, and explore your legal options.
If you need expert advice or someone to act on your behalf, Tembusu Law is here to support you with some of the best criminal lawyers in Singapore.
Don’t wait! Reach out to us for a free consultation and protect your legal rights today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Suffering Damages From Falling Trees In Singapore
Who Is Responsible When A Tree Falls On My Property In Singapore?
Responsibility depends on ownership and maintenance. If the tree was on government land, NParks or the Town Council may be involved. On private land, the owner or MCST may be responsible, but only if negligence can be shown.
Can I Claim Insurance If A Tree Damages My Car Or House?
Yes, many car and home insurance policies in Singapore cover damage from falling objects. However, coverage depends on your specific policy terms. Check with your insurer immediately.
Do I Need To Make A Police Report After A Tree Falls?
Yes, especially if a vehicle or person was injured. A police report helps in insurance claims and legal matters.
What If The Tree Looked Healthy But Still Fell During A Storm?
If the tree appeared healthy and the fall was sudden due to weather, liability may not apply. It’s usually treated as a natural event unless there were prior signs of decay or risk that were ignored.
