The unusually wet weather Michigan—and much of the country—is experiencing this spring serves as a clear reminder of the importance of securing appropriate insurance coverage before an emergency occurs. Many members of our community are all too familiar with the devastating effects of flooding, having experienced significant events in 2017, 2020, and again in 2026.
For both homeowners and business owners, there are three primary types of coverage that should be carefully considered:
Key Coverages to Consider
1. Flood Insurance
Flood insurance provides coverage when water enters a building from outside—for example, through doors or windows. In many cases, this coverage is obtained through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), provided the community participates in the program.
Important considerations:
NFIP policies are subject to a 30-day waiting period before coverage becomes effective.
Flood insurance is available even if your property is not located in a designated flood zone, as long as the county participates in the NFIP.
2. Inland Flood Coverage (Homeowners Policy Endorsement)
Many homeowners remember the June 2017 flood in Midland, which affected countless properties. In response to events like this, some insurance carriers—such as Auto-Owners Insurance—now offer an Inland Flood endorsement that can be added directly to a homeowners policy.
This endorsement is specifically designed for homes in low-to-moderate flood risk areas, where traditional NFIP coverage was historically expensive. It provides a more affordable option to protect both the structure and its contents against inland flooding events.
An inland flood may include:
Overflow of rivers, streams, or other inland waterways onto normally dry land
Rapid rainfall accumulation or runoff that does not adequately drain or absorb into the ground
Snowmelt or water carrying debris or mud, sometimes resulting in mudflow events
3. Water Backup Coverage
Water backup coverage applies when water backs up into a building through a drain, sewer line, or as a result of a sump pump failure. This is not considered flood insurance and must be specifically added to a policy.
Key points:
These policies typically are subject to a 30-day waiting period before coverage applies
Water backup coverage is especially critical for homes with finished basements or valuable lower-level contents.
Consider the potential cost of repairs and replacement if your basement were to flood—this coverage can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
How Do I Know If I Qualify?
Determining the right coverage depends on your property, location, and risk exposure. The best next step is to speak with a knowledgeable insurance professional.Contact your friends in the insurance business:
📞 Phone: (989) 835-6701
✉️ Email: info [at] ieuter [dot] com
We are happy to review your current coverage, explain available options, and help ensure you are properly protected before the next severe weather event occurs.