An old tree fell on her California home, leaving Angela Bereola with a $51,399 bill despite having insurance - here's why

Angela Bereola’s home was damaged by a tree that did not even grow on her property. When a century-old oak fell onto her roof during a storm in Castro Valley, California, the homeowner faced an insurance dispute that initially left her with a $51,399.97 shortfall.

The tree stood on land owned by the Hayward Unified School District. That detail complicated Bereola’s claim, turning the damage into a months-long dispute over insurance coverage and responsibility.

According to ABC 7 On Your Side, heavy rain and winds reaching 36 miles per hour brought down the oak last year.

Why the Insurance Claim Left a $51,399 Shortfall

A third-party estimated the damage to Bereola’s roof at $70,600.83. The estimate did not include any additional damage caused during the tree’s removal.

Because the tree was rooted in the school district’s yard, the insurance adjuster offered to cover $19,200.86 of the estimated damage. That left a shortfall of $51,399.97.

Bereola spent months arguing with the school district’s insurance authority, but her claim was denied.

In an email, the district’s property and cyber claims specialist said that, "Based on our findings and applicable code, we have determined that the tree fall was an act of nature, and no liability attaches to the Hayward Unified School District," as quoted by MoneyWise.

Bereola disagreed with the decision, saying, "This isn't fair. It wasn't like we were doing something that caused the tree to fall."

ABC7 Helps Resolve the Insurance Dispute

The dispute was eventually resolved after ABC7’s consumer advocacy team contacted the insurance company. Bereola received a supplemental payment to cover some of the costs.

The exact amount of that additional payment and Bereola’s final out-of-pocket expenses were not specified in the provided details.

Many Homeowners Face Unpaid Insurance Claims

Bereola’s experience comes as homeowners continue to face challenges getting insurance claims paid. Weiss Ratings said, "14 large U.S. property insurers closed 40% to 51% of homeowner claims with no payment whatsoever in 2024."

Home owners may prepare by checking their policies and understand what is covered. So if damage occurs, taking photos, keeping notes, saving receipts for temporary repairs help support claims.

An independent adjuster/ licensed contractor can also provide an estimate of the damage and repair costs. However, public adjusters may charge roughly 15% of the total claim amount, according to United Policyholders. So homeowners should consider the cost before hiring one.

What Homeowners Can Do After a Claim Is Denied

A denied claim doesn't necessarily end the process. Homeowners can check their policy for instructions on filing an appeal and any deadline for challenging the decision.

Hiring an attorney is another option particularly when the amount in dispute is substantial. Legal fees can be expensive, so homeowners need to consider whether the cost is justified.

Bereola’s experience shows how a fallen tree can lead to a complicated insurance dispute, particularly when it stands on someone else’s property. Reviewing coverage, documenting damage and understanding the appeals process can help homeowners prepare if their own claims are denied.