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Storm and tree damage in Milwaukee

Arborists and roofers for storm damage.

40 pros in Milwaukee

Milwaukee's storm work starts with a question of who owns the tree. The city's Forestry Services says it removes only street trees that are dead, hazardous, or compromised by construction, and it assesses street trees after extreme weather. A tree on your own lot is your responsibility. When a big storm hits, the scale can be large: We Energies called one Tuesday storm its largest restoration in the company's history, with about 225,000 customers losing power at some point and the heaviest outages in Milwaukee and Waukesha counties. That means crews fill up fast and you may be tempted to accept the first offer. Before you hire, ask whether the work is on a street tree or your own property, and whether roof repairs will need a permit. Wisconsin's consumer protection agency advises checking with a local building inspector about permits and having the work inspected before final payment. Also, call your insurer first and keep every receipt.

Source: WISN 12 (source, opens in a new tab)

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Before you hire

  1. For a tree near power lines, call your utility first: only a utility-certified arborist should work within 3 m of the wires.

    Source: bchydro.com (source, opens in a new tab)

  2. Ask which permits the job needs and who will get them; your municipal building department can tell you before work starts.

    Source: ised-isde.canada.ca (source, opens in a new tab)

  3. Ask about liability insurance and workers’ compensation cover before anyone works on your roof or property.

    Source: ised-isde.canada.ca (source, opens in a new tab)

Questions about hiring in Milwaukee

Can I have a damaged street tree removed myself in Milwaukee?

Street trees are handled by the city. Milwaukee's Forestry Services says it removes only street trees that are dead, hazardous, or compromised by construction, and it assesses street trees after extreme weather. If the damaged tree stands between the sidewalk and the road, contact the city before hiring anyone. City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works (source, opens in a new tab)

Who may do roof repairs after a storm in Wisconsin?

For one- and two-family homes, Wisconsin code says no one may obtain a building permit without a Dwelling Contractor or Dwelling Contractor Restricted certification, and a qualifier certification held or employed by them. Ask to see the certification before you sign, and ask who will pull any permit. Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (source, opens in a new tab)

Should I tell my insurer before the clean-up starts?

Yes. Wisconsin's insurance commissioner's office says to notify your agent or company right away to start the claim. Do not throw out damaged property unless the claim adjuster agrees, and keep all repair receipts. Ask any tree or roofing crew to put the scope of work in writing. Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (source, opens in a new tab)

Can a contractor cover my insurance deductible?

No. Wisconsin's consumer protection agency says contractors in the state cannot promise to pay any portion of your property insurance deductible. Treat such an offer as a warning sign. The agency also advises asking your local building inspector whether repairs need permits and having the work inspected before final payment. Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (source, opens in a new tab)

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