With high winds slamming parts of California this week, homeowners may wonder whether they are financially protected from flying debris and falling trees.

The answer is a conditional yes, though there are some exceptions to standard homeowners insurance policies that policyholders should be aware of.

For example, if a tree falls on to a house, both the damage to the property and the cost of tree removal are covered up to the limits of a standard homeowners insurance policy. Tree removal is typically covered up to $500 under these circumstances.

However, if a tree falls and causes no damage to the insured structure, the cost of tree removal is not covered under a typical homeowners policy. Though damage to trees and shrubs are covered due to losses from vandalism, theft and fire, storm damage to greenery is not covered under a typical homeowners policy.

The Insurance Information Network of California, a non-profit, non-lobbying insurance communications group, offers the free brochure “Am I Covered?” which outlines the answers to commonly asked questions about homeowners insurance. For a copy of the brochure, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to “Am I Covered” c/o IINC, 3530 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 1610, Los Angeles 90010.