My neighbor's tree fell on my fence — who pays for repairs?

Texas generally follows the "Massachusetts Rule" — a landowner is not automatically liable for damage caused by a healthy tree that falls due to a storm. However, if you had previously notified your neighbor in writing that the tree was dead, diseased, or leaning dangerously and they failed to act, liability shifts significantly. Check whether you have homeowner's insurance that covers neighbor-caused damage — most policies do. Also check if your neighbor has liability coverage. If the tree was visibly unhealthy, consult an attorney about a negligence claim. Document everything with photos now.