Storm Response Resources
Following recent storms a variety of resources are available to help you and your family. if you have any questions or need additional assistance, please contact my office.
Applying for Assistance
On June 30, President Trump approved an initial $22.6 million in funding assistance for Wisconsin families following storm damage in April. The funding will provide Individual Assistance Funding for families in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Racine, Rock Counties, and Public Assistance Funding for Rock County, as well as other counties throughout Wisconsin.
Families can apply for assistance HERE OR CALL 1-800-621-3362.
Disaster Assistance will have a checklist including address, contact information, household income, and a general loss list among other provisions.
- Items like receipts or photos can be helpful for the application and appeal process
- For more information, go to DisasterAssistance.Gov
After applying for assistance, FEMA will issue a determination and award grants to applicants as appropriate.
When applying for assistance, make sure:
- Your damaged home is your primary residence
- You haven't received assistance for the same losses from another source, including insurance
- You are able to be reached by FEMA at the contact information you provide in the application
What information you need to provide when applying:
- Your contact information, including email address
- Your address at the time of disaster and the address where you are now staying
- Your social security number
- Annual household income
- A general list of damage and losses
- Banking information, if you choose direct deposit
- If insured, your policy number or the agent and/or company name
For help with your application or to apply by phone, call the FEMA Helpline:
- 1-800-621-3362
- If you use a video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone CTS, or other service, give FEMA your number for that service
If you disagree with FEMA's decision, you may appeal:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.Gov
- In person at a Disaster Recovery Center, which will be announced in the coming days
- By mail or fax
For more information on the disaster assistance process, visit DisasterAssistance.Gov or visit the site's Frequently Asked Questions page.
Avoiding Scams
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection. issued warnings and guidance for families to avoid scams following recent flooding. For more information click here or read their release below.
Tips for Homeowners Seeking Repair Contractors
- Hire established local contractors.
- Ask for recommendations from trusted sources like friends, neighbors, and insurance agents.
- Check with a local building inspector if permits are needed for the repair job, then have them inspect the completed work before making final payments to the contractor.
- Make sure there is a written contract which specifies what work will be done, what materials will be used, a start and completion date, and warranty details.
- Receive lien waivers for every payment made for home repairs to any hired contractors.
- Keep copies of all contracts, receipts, communications, warranties, and written materials.
Homes are not the only property that may have sustained severe weather damage. Many consumers rely on their motor vehicles for everyday transportation, and seeking repairs can be a stressful experience. Consumers can protect themselves by knowing their rights, resources, and these auto repair tips:
Tips for Vehicle Owners Seeking Auto Body Work
- Ask for shop recommendations from friends, family, and other local sources they trust. If the work will be covered by insurance, select a shop with the insurance provider.
- Search for online reviews of the company and contact the DATCP Bureau of Consumer Protection to check if a specific shop has a record of complaints.
- Document all transactions and communications, including specific dates, times, expenses, promises made, and the names of shop employees.
Auto body repair shops cannot make repairs that the owner did not authorize or increase the price of those repairs without authorization after the consumer received an estimate or quote. A shop may hold a vehicle until the consumer pays for authorized repairs but cannot hold the vehicle if they refuse to pay for unauthorized repairs. After work is complete, the shop must provide an invoice describing and listing the cost for all repairs, replaced parts, and labor.
Insurance Tips
The Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) published an After a Storm Hits Fact Sheet which can help consumers understand their policy options and coverage. After severe weather strikes, consumers should:
- Notify their insurance agent or company right away to begin the insurance claim process.
- Make a list of damaged items, including any damage to the home's structure.
- Take photos of damages, including dented siding, damaged shingles, broken windshields, etc.
- Keep swatches of damaged material like shingles and siding.
- Keep damaged items – they should not be thrown out without the claim adjuster's agreement.
- Retain all receipts for repairs or replacement of damaged property.
State law protects consumers and businesses against insurance fraud. In Wisconsin, contractors:
- Cannot promise to pay any portion of an owner's property insurance deductible.
- Cannot negotiate with an insurance company on behalf of a customer. Contractors can only discuss damages and costs with insurers with the customer's permission.
- Must ask if the work is related to an insurance claim before they enter into a contract.
- Must notify customers of their right to cancel the contract within three business days if their insurer denies any portion of the claim for work.