Damage caused by fallen tree from a private road – who’s responsible?”
Hi everyone, I am looking for some advice on a property issue in Wellington, New Zealand.
A tree located on a private road next to my property recently fell onto the overhead power line connected to the mains box outside my house. As a result we’ve been without power for 2 days.
We’ve called our power provider who has given us a hefty bill to replace the mains box.
Initially we called the council regarding it, but they informed us it is a private road and they are not liable.
The tree likely fell due to the recent stormy weather, however this is the second tree to fall from
that road inflicting damage within a short amount of time.
I’m trying to understand:
Are we likely responsible for covering the full cost?
Or could liability sit with the owner(s) of the private road?
Does the fact this has happened more than once change anything?
Is this something better handled through insurance?
Please advise the best next steps