Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services Offers Insurance Tips Following Statewide Flooding, Severe Weather

Media Contact: [email protected]
Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 17, 2026

(LANSING, MICH) 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 877-999-6442, 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."

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.

To learn more and file a complaint, visit Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints. Additional disaster recovery information is available on the DIFS website.

The State Emergency Operation Center (SEOC) was fully activated statewide to address ongoing flooding concerns related to the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex, as well as the broader severe weather impacts across the state. Two websites, Michigan.gov/AprilStorms2026 and Michigan.gov/Cheboygan-Dam, have been launched to provide up-to-date information, resources and alerts. All Michiganders are urged to sign-up for local alerts. For more information on the current SEOC activation follow MSP/EMHSD on X and Facebook.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS or follow the Department on Facebook, X, or LinkedIn.

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