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No, homeowners insurance typically does not cover the cost of removing a dead, sick, or rotting tree that is still standing. Insurance is designed to protect against sudden and unexpected accidents, whereas a tree dying or rotting over time is considered a maintenance issue. Coverage usually only applies after a tree has fallen and caused damage to your property.

It takes anywhere from three to seven years for a stump to decompose on its own. This timeframe can depend on the kind of tree and your climate. The lower to the ground the stump is, the faster it rots. If you kill a tree stump with salt, boiling water, herbicide, light deprivation, or burning, the tree stump decomposes faster. 

Tree borers are difficult to control and remove once they make a home in your tree. However, with patience and determination, some methods can slow the damage or even eliminate the pests. But, once the damage is too much for the tree to handle, the only solution becomes removing it. Talk to a tree specialist early for the best chance at saving your tree.

Although it’s possible, heavy machinery like a crane is necessary for removing an entire tree stump and all. This procedure is extremely costly, time-consuming, and usually unnecessary, as there are plenty of convenient and affordable stump removal options. 

Your best bet, if you want to be sure to remove a tree and its stump efficiently, is to speak with a professional. They’ll be able to walk you through the entire process.