At first glance, property boundaries might seem benign, straightforward matters. They separate plots of land. Period.

But what happens when a property boundary becomes part of a dispute between neighbors, when one neighbor alleges that during a land prep project, trees and vegetation along a property line had been improperly removed by the other neighbor? In such a case, things can escalate quickly. The actual property lines can become contested, and emotions run high, and suddenly an insurance carrier is facing a high-value claim backed by legal counsel and expert reports.

That’s exactly the scenario that Friedline & Carter Adjustment handled in 2024, and the case illustrates the value that F&C provides.  It details how our adjusters tackled the claim, uncovered the truth, and delivered a significantly lower and defensible valuation—all while identifying a path for potential subrogation.

The Background

In early 2024, our client’s insured hired a local contractor to clear land in preparation for building a new home. Shortly after the work began, her neighbor filed a formal claim alleging that the clearing had crossed property lines and caused damage to her trees and natural landscape. As support for her claim, she submitted a survey, photographs, and a report from a certified arborist whose appraisal supported that figure.

The financial stakes were high. The neighbor was demanding $47,560 in compensation, and the arborist’s report, combined with legal correspondence, created the appearance of a substantial and well-documented claim.

The carrier needed facts, and fast.

Our Investigation: Getting to the Root of the Problem

Friedline & Carter Adjustment was brought in to evaluate the situation, determine potential liability, and help the carrier manage communication and exposure. From the moment we received the assignment, we launched a comprehensive investigation, which involved

• A Recorded Statement—We interviewed the insured to understand the project’s scope, the use of survey markers and ribbons to define boundaries, and all communications with the contractor.
• A Site Inspection—Our adjusters visited the property, documented visible boundary markings, walked the perimeter through dense overgrowth, and photographed the area of alleged encroachment.
• A Review of Documentation—We gathered survey plans, site maps, text messages, receipts, and other evidence to piece together a clear timeline and intent.

Vetting the Report from the Arborist

One of the biggest challenges in this claim was the credibility of the neighbor’s arborist, a well-respected expert in the region. Few professionals were willing to contradict his findings.

However, the Friedline & Carter team identified, vetted, and retained another certified arborist who provided an independent assessment of the damage. This effort was described by the carrier as crucial to their evaluation of the claim. In contrast to the claimant’s valuation of $47,560, the independent arborist’s valuation was $19,720, giving the carrier a realistic foundation for negotiations and future litigation.

Identifying All Third Parties Involved

Our investigation also uncovered the multiple subcontractors who were involved in the clearing work and potentially responsible for the damage. We also located and notified the insurers of these subcontractors.

To ensure a path to recover costs down the line for the carrier, we identified the role of each contractor and secured Certificates of Insurance (COIs). We then notified their carriers to preserve our client’s rights and collaborated with the insured’s legal counsel to evaluate subrogation options.

Outcome: Clarity, Control, and Reduced Exposure

The claim ultimately proceeded to litigation, but our investigation significantly reduced our client’s exposure by

• Discrediting the inflated damage valuation;
• Documenting the insured’s reasonable use of boundary markers;
• Providing detailed evidence of responsibility; and
• Delivering a thorough, organized report with photographs, diagrams, and expert input.

Our work gave our client leverage to defend the claim and a clear path for pursuing recovery from the subcontractors responsible.

The Friedline & Carter Advantage: Our Expertise and Attention to Detail

This claim is a perfect example of how Friedline & Carter delivers real value. We conduct thorough, on-site investigations and engage neutral experts. We practice strategic communication and reporting, and, most of all, protect the carrier’s and insured’s interests. Whether it’s a tree damage dispute, property loss, or slip-and-fall case, we make sure our clients have what they need: facts, clarity, and control.

Let us put our experience to work for you. Contact Friedline & Carter Adjustment today to strengthen your claims-handling process.