June is National Homeownership Month: DIFS Shares Tips to Help Consumers Prepare for Emergencies and Protect Their Homes

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Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 11, 2025

(LANSING, MICH) The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is participating in National Homeownership Month by sharing tips with Michiganders about having the right insurance coverage in place to be prepared for emergencies and protect their homes.

“Homeownership creates a strong financial foundation for consumers,” said DIFS Director Anita Fox. “Having adequate insurance coverage and being prepared for emergencies are keys to protecting your investment. DIFS encourages all Michiganders to meet with a licensed insurance professional to ensure they have the coverage that meets their family’s needs.”

Here are some tips from DIFS to help homeowners protect their property:

• Reviewing your homeowners or renters policy is a key step to preparing for emergencies and protecting your property. Sometimes valuables, such as jewelry, artwork, or other high-priced items, are not adequately covered. Speak with a licensed insurance agent or insurance company if you have any questions or need clarification about your coverage.
• Talk to an insurance agent or insurance company about flood insurance before flooding or water damage occurs. Flooding is typically not covered unless you have purchased flood insurance, and water and sewer back-up are not automatically covered under a homeowners or renters policy.
• Safely store copies of all insurance policy declaration pages and insurance cards. Consider using a safe deposit box or store copies of documents online in the cloud, in case the originals are destroyed or lost. This practice prepares you for emergencies and filing claims.
• Have a financial plan in place, such as a dedicated emergency fund, for paying an insurance policy’s deductible to help avoid severe financial strain in the aftermath of an emergency. A deductible is a certain amount of money that must be paid out-of-pocket before the insurance company will pay a claim after damage or loss. Review the declaration pages of your homeowners policy to ensure you are comfortable with the amount of your deductible. Talk with a licensed insurance agent or insurance company to make any changes.
• Shop around to ensure you have the insurance coverage that best fits your family’s needs and budget.

National Homeownership Month began in 1995, originally as National Homeownership Week, under President Bill Clinton. Its goal was to increase homeownership across America. In 2002, President George W. Bush expanded the original idea, changing the observance from one week to the whole month of June. The goal of the month is to reinforce the belief homeownership is one of the steps towards achieving the American Dream.

DIFS encourages consumers to reach out to their insurance company or agent for help with their existing insurance policies. Consumers can also contact DIFS for assistance at 877-999-6442, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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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