Follow-up: City claimed tree causes damage to a house

Some Wilmington residents say the city is to blame for a tree that crashed into their home during tropical storm Hanna. They said the tree was damaged, and should have been removed.

A city spokesperson says there was nothing wrong with the tree, and the city is not responsible for the damage.

The residents are not happy with the city’s decision.

Harold Horne, a resident affected by the downed tree, said, “I don’t think it’s my insurance responsibility to pay for this, the tree was planted on city property”.

Horne and his neighbor Nancy O’dell said the tree was damaged before the storm and they also said they’ve repeatedly asked the city to cut it down.

Now, they expect the city to pay for their repairs, and the city said no.

Malissa Talbert, a Wilmington spokesperson stated, “The tree was in very good health. There were no problems with the tree, so really it fell because of the hurricane and we consider that an act of nature, not anything that the city could control.”

Malissa Talbert said a city crew checked the tree a year ago, and that it was fine.

Frustrating news for Horne and his neighbor, who will have to go through their homeowners insurance, in order to get their repairs paid.

If you’re concerned about the health of a city tree in your neighborhood you call the city at 910-341-7852. The city’s solid waste crews are picking up yard debris left by Hanna. Residents should leave their debris at the curb for pick-up.

If you have questions call 910-341-7875.