Water Damage Claims in Michigan: Critical Information Property Owners Must Understand
Water damage is one of the most common—and most expensive—perils Michigan and property owners across the country face. From burst pipes during bitter winters to sewer backups after intense storms, these losses can escalate quickly into major structural problems and costly mold remediation. Filing a water damage insurance claim should give you the funds to rebuild—but insurers often delay or underpay valid claims.
At Fabian, Sklar, King & Liss, we focus exclusively on first-party property insurance disputes. Here is what every Michigan property owner needs to know to protect their rights and secure a fair recovery.
Common Causes of Water Damage Claims in Michigan Buildings & Homes
Frozen or Burst Pipes – Sub-zero temperatures can freeze plumbing, causing pipes to rupture and flood interiors.
Heavy Rain and Flooding – NOAA data shows Michigan has seen record rain events in recent years (NOAA Storm Events), overwhelming basements and sump systems. Climate change is increasing flood risks across Michigan and the rest of the country. While average annual precipitation in the Midwest has increased 5-10%, rainfall during the wettest four days has jumped 35%. This trend is expected to continue, with spring rainfall and severe storms likely to intensify further (What Climate Change Means for Michigan).
Sewer and Drain Backups – Standard homeowners policies exclude this unless you buy a water-backup endorsement.
Hidden Leaks and Mold – Slow leaks behind walls lead to structural rot and mold growth, often triggering coverage disputes
Why Water Damage Claims Are Denied or Underpaid
• Coverage Exclusions – Floodwater and sewer backups are not covered without specific endorsements.
• Alleged Negligence – Insurers may blame “lack of maintenance” to avoid paying.
• Late Notice – Waiting too long to report damage gives carriers a reason to reduce benefits.
• Lowball Estimates – Adjusters frequently undervalue remediation, mold removal, and specialty materials.
If you’re fighting any of these tactics around your water damage claim, read our guide on what to do when a property insurance claim is denied.
Essential Steps After Water Damage Claims
1. Mitigate Immediately – Pump out water, board broken windows, and prevent additional loss (your policy requires this).
2. Document Everything – Photo-document damage and keep receipts for emergency services.
3. Know Your Limits – Review exclusions for flood or sewer backup; see our article on understanding property insurance coverage types.
4. Notify the Insurer Promptly – Michigan law expects timely notice; delays hurt claims.
We find that the sooner a client contacts us and gets us involved the more value we can add to your claim. We bring in experts early and cover all essential steps need to comply with your specific insurance policy to best set up your water damage claim. Learn how long insurers have to settle Michigan homeowners claims.
How Fabian, Sklar, King & Liss Protects Policyholder Water Damage Claims
• Policy Analysis – We find hidden coverage and fight improper exclusions.
• Independent Experts – Engineers & environmental specialists prove the full extent of water and mold damage.
• Claim Advocacy – We negotiate aggressively; if needed, pursue appraisal or litigation.
• Client Protection – We prepare you for recorded statements and Examinations Under Oath.
“Water damage claims are among the most disputed in Michigan. Insurers often undervalue legitimate losses or deny them outright. Our job is to ensure your carrier complies with the policy you paid for.”
– Jason J. Liss, Managing Shareholder
Take Action Today on your Water Damage Claim
If your insurer is delaying, undervaluing, or denying your water damage claim, let our experienced Michigan property insurance attorneys help. We’ve secured millions for homeowners statewide. Contact Fabian, Sklar, King & Liss now for a free consultation and put proven advocates on your side.
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External references: FEMA notes one inch of floodwater can cause $25,000 in damage (FEMA Flood Insurance). NOAA tracks rising extreme-rain events across the Midwest (NOAA Climate).