Short answer: Wayne County's FEMA National Risk Index report ranks hazards for Detroit tracts. The Michigan Basic Property Insurance Association (MBPIA) is the state's property FAIR Plan when standard markets will not write you. Michigan auto insurance is a no-fault system with statutory liability choices—confirm current DIFS limits when you register.
This guide is general information for homeowners and drivers in the Detroit area (Wayne County). It isn't legal advice or a coverage determination. Your policy wording, underwriting, city and county ordinances, and state insurance and motor-vehicle rules control. Check your address on FEMA's National Risk Index (county report for Wayne County) and the Flood Map Service Center.
Local hazards: FEMA National Risk Index for Wayne County
Use FEMA's National Risk Index and the Wayne County report. Keep vacant-lot and brush conditions compliant with City of Detroit property-maintenance enforcement before underwriting.
Federal disaster declarations in Wayne County
FEMA's disaster declarations data shows 11 major disaster declarations that included Wayne County since 1972, led by severe storm events (6) and flood events (5). The most recent: Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding, 2024, Severe Storms, Flooding, and Tornadoes, 2021, Severe Storms and Flooding, 2014 and Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding, 2004. FEMA also lists 4 emergency declarations for the county in the same data.
Basement backups in Detroit
The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department explains that basements flood because they sit below ground where water seeps in, because drain tile fails, and because the sewer line from the house can back up. Rain on June 25–26, 2021 hit Victoria Park and Aviation Sub hardest. Victoria Park is the lowest point in the city and lies in a floodplain. Standard homeowners policies leave sewer backup out, so ask about a backup endorsement. If you're in a mapped flood zone, ask about a flood policy too.
The city's backup protection program
DWSD's Basement Backup Protection Program installed backwater valves, sump pumps and downspout disconnections at no cost to homeowners in 11 neighborhoods with a history of backups. Phases 1 and 2 are finished, and applications will reopen only if new funding is found. DWSD recommends that every owner disconnect downspouts from the sewer and add a backwater valve or sump pump where needed. It will mail its Basement Backup & Flood Protection Handbook on request.
Residual market: Michigan Basic Property Insurance Association
MBPIA is Michigan's FAIR Plan for basic property coverage when it cannot be obtained in the standard market. Apply through a licensed Michigan agent; MBPIA does not sell directly to consumers. See DIFS publication materials on MBPIA for consumer context.
Auto: Michigan no-fault framework
Michigan requires auto insurance to register and drive. DIFS consumer materials describe PIP choices and bodily-injury liability options (including higher default limits with a permitted lower election). Confirm the exact dollar minimums in force for your policy effective date in the Michigan auto insurance guide and autoinsurance FAQ before you buy—do not rely on outdated third-party summaries.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Michigan.
Frequently asked questions
What is MBPIA?
Michigan's FAIR Plan—basic residual property coverage through licensed agents when standard markets will not write eligible risks.
Which NRI county covers Detroit?
Wayne County (26163) on FEMA's National Risk Index viewer.
Does a Detroit homeowners policy cover flood?
No; flood needs a separate policy.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.