STATUS: Open, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

SERVICE AREA: The State of Michigan

CLIENTS SERVED: Michigan residents affected by or preparing for disasters, including homeowners, renters, and business owners. Assistance is primarily related to understanding insurance coverage, filing claims, and resolving insurance problems.

DESCRIPTION: Provides disaster-preparedness information and insurance assistance to help Michigan residents protect their property and finances before and after disasters. DIFS does not provide home repair grants, but helps residents understand insurance coverage, navigate claims, avoid contractor scams, and address problems with insurance companies.

PROGRAMS/SERVICES:

• Insurance Guidance: Information about homeowners, renters, flood, water/sewer backup, auto, and other insurance coverage.
• Disaster Claims Assistance: Guidance on reporting damage, documenting losses, preventing further damage, and working with insurance companies.
• Insurance Complaints: Helps consumers who believe their insurance company has not properly handled a claim or followed Michigan insurance laws.
• Contractor & Fraud Protection: Information on avoiding contractor scams, insurance fraud, price gouging, and other disaster-related scams.
• Public Adjuster Information: Helps consumers understand the role of public adjusters and verify that they are licensed.
• Disaster-Specific Resources: Guidance for tornadoes/severe storms, flooding, winter storms, fires, and power outages.
• Insurance Locator: The DIFS locator helps residents find licensed insurance agents, agencies, and companies in Michigan.
• Emergency Preparedness: Guidance on creating a home inventory, protecting important documents, and preparing emergency contact information.

HOW TO ACCESS: Residents can visit the website and use the online disaster-preparedness resources or contact DIFS Consumer Services 877-999-6442 for questions or problems involving insurance.