MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES OFFERS INSURANCE TIPS FOLLOWING STATEWIDE FLOODING, SEVERE WEATHER

The following information was released by the Michigan State Government:

Following the severe weather and flooding that has continued to impact many Michigan communities this week, the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is providing tips and resources to help residents with filing insurance claims and protecting themselves from fraud.

"Over the past few days, Michiganders have faced extreme weather conditions, including flooding and tornadoes. As recovery begins, it's normal for consumers to have questions about filing insurance claims, and DIFS stands ready to help," said DIFS Director Anita Fox. "Consumers can call our live call center at 877-9996-442, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., for support. We can guide residents through the next steps in their recovery as they assess damage and make insurance claims."

Affected residents should contact their insurance agent or company to review their policy, determine what coverage may be available, and promptly file any claims. It's important to note that most homeowners and renters insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Those experiencing water-related damage should be aware that the term "flood" may have a specialized meaning under their insurance policy and there can be many causes for water damage, including storm-related rainwater intrusion, sewer backup, or failing sump pump, which may be covered under the policy.

Anyone impacted by the severe weather or flooding across the state should:

First, contact their insurance company's claims hotline and/or agent to report damage to their home or vehicle and file a claim. Have the policy number and other relevant information readily available. To make this process easier, DIFS offers an insurance claim tracking tool to organize information.

Take steps to protect the property and prevent further loss. Be sure to keep receipts for any purchases of supplies that are needed to protect the property.

Document the loss. Take pictures or videos of the damaged items and do not get rid of the items until instructed to do so by the insurance company.

Stay vigilant of fraud and scams. After a severe weather incident, fraudsters claiming to be adjusters, contractors, and other service providers often go door-to-door pretending to offer services, like debris cleanup or building repairs, that will not be completed or may be completed with poor-quality materials or shoddy workmanship.

Contact their insurance company before hiring a contractor. Be sure to check the service provider's credentials, including licenses, references, and insurance. Also, remember that insurance adjusters are paid by the insurance company and should never ask homeowners for any payment for their services that are covered by their homeowners or renter's policy.

Contact DIFS with questions or concerns about insurance coverage. DIFS encourages consumers to first attempt to resolve any claim disputes directly with their insurance company or agent. If a resolution cannot be reached, DIFS can assist. Consumers can contact DIFS' Office of Consumer Services' live call center at 877-999-6442, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.