Anniversary of Edenville, Sanford Dam failures serves as a reminder to review insurance coverage
LANSING, Mich. — Michiganders are encouraged to review their insurance policies. The reminder comes as the state observes the anniversary of the May 2020 failures of the Edenville and Sanford Dams in Midland and Gladwin Counties. The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) wants consumers to understand their flood risk and protect their property with flood insurance.
“Many Michiganders do not know that most homeowners, renters, and business insurance policies do not cover flood damage, so we are urging all Michiganders to review their insurance to confirm that they are protected in the event of a flood especially in light of last year’s tragedy,” said DIFS Director Anita Fox. “As we saw last year, flooding can cause severe damage almost anywhere. It is important to know that you do not have to be in a floodplain to get coverage to ensure you have much-needed financial protection when the unexpected happens.”
Just one inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 in damage, and the dam failures of 2020 are a reminder that properties can also be at-risk from a flood event even if they are not close to a body of water. FEMA estimates less than 1% of structures in Michigan have federal flood insurance, and only 15% of structures in the Special Flood Hazard Area have federal flood insurance.
The average premium for federal flood insurance in low- to moderate-risk zones in Michigan is $550/year. Anyone who lives in a community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program can buy flood insurance, regardless of whether their home or property is in a high-risk zone. Michiganders should contact their insurance agent or company or visit FloodSmart.gov to learn more and get covered.
Anyone with questions or concerns about their insurance coverage can contact DIFS 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 877-999-6442.
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, Twitter, or LinkedIn.
