(WWJ) -- With much of Michigan and metro Detroit recovering from heavy weekend rains, widespread flooding and tornadoes, the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is providing tips to help residents when working with insurance companies to file claims and repair damages.
DIFS Director Anita Fox says its important for Michiganders to understand their rights and responsibilities as they recover from severe weather and flooding.
“Impacted Michiganders should carefully review their policies and work with their agents and insurers to see what coverage is available to them,” Fox said.
Many roadways, yards and basements across Southeast Michigan were left underwater Monday morning after storms swept through the area over the weekend, with some areas seeing as many as six inches of rain.
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DIFS offered several tips for those impacted by flood waters and storm damage:
-- Contact your insurance company’s claims hotline and/or agent to report the claim. Have the policy number and other relevant information readily available.
DIFS has an insurance claims tracking sheet to make that process easier.
-- If there is water damage to a home or other structure, consumers should tell their insurance company that there is water damage and they are looking to determine what coverage is available. Consumers should not simply state that the damage is due to a flood, as there may be additional causes for water damage, such as a sewer backup or failing sump pump, that may be covered under the policy.
-- Consumers should review insurance policies to understand their coverage. Flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. DIFS says there are certain insurance policies, including federal flood insurance, that homeowners would need to purchase to have coverage for flooding or water and sewer back-up resulting from storms or other natural disasters. It is important to discuss these options with your insurance agent or your insurance company well before flooding or damage occurs. Keep in mind that coverage through the federal flood insurance program typically takes 30 days to go into effect.
-- Michiganders should also 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.
-- If there is water damage to a vehicle, consumers should contact their auto insurance company. They may have coverage for the damage if they carried comprehensive coverage on their auto policy.
DIFS is available to answer questions and assist consumers 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 877-999-6442. DIFS encourages consumers to first attempt to resolve any claim disputes directly with their insurance company. If a resolution cannot be reached, DIFS will help try to resolve disputes. To learn more and file a complaint, visit Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints.
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