Short answer: Kent County's FEMA National Risk Index report ranks hazards for Grand Rapids tracts. MBPIA is Michigan's FAIR Plan for basic property coverage.
This guide is general information for homeowners and drivers in the Grand Rapids area (Kent 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 Kent County) and the Flood Map Service Center.
Local hazards: FEMA National Risk Index for Kent County
Open FEMA's National Risk Index and the Kent County report.
Federal disaster declarations in Kent County
FEMA's disaster declarations data shows 7 major disaster declarations that included Kent County since 1965, led by flood events (3), severe storm events (3) and tornado events (1). The most recent: Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding, 2024, Flooding, 2013, Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding, 2004 and Severe Storms, 1998. FEMA also lists 4 emergency declarations for the county in the same data.
The April 2013 record crest
The National Weather Service in Grand Rapids recorded a crest of 21.85 feet on the Grand River at Grand Rapids in April 2013, beating the 1985 record of 19.64 feet. The flow that day, though, ranked only fifth highest on record. Earlier in the month, Buck Creek and Plaster Creek flooded badly across the metro area. Across the region, hundreds of homes flooded and more than 300 roads closed, and Grand Rapids was one of two cities in the disaster declaration.
Creeks as well as the river
The same report shows that smaller streams can cause serious damage without the Grand River overtopping anything. Buck Creek flooding forced a nursing home in neighboring Grandville to evacuate. If you live near Buck Creek, Plaster Creek or another tributary, look up your FEMA zone. A standard homeowners policy won't pay for water that comes in from outside. Comprehensive coverage handles a car caught in high water, but a separate flood policy is needed for the house and its contents.
Residual market: MBPIA
The Michigan Basic Property Insurance Association is the state's FAIR Plan for basic property coverage when the standard market will not write it. Applications go through a licensed Michigan agent.
Auto: Michigan no-fault
Michigan drivers choose a PIP medical level and carry bodily-injury and property-protection coverage; see the DIFS auto insurance guide and FAQ for current required limits.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Michigan.
Frequently asked questions
What is MBPIA?
Michigan's FAIR Plan for basic property coverage, sold through licensed agents.
Is sewer backup covered in Grand Rapids?
Usually only with an endorsement—ask when you quote.
Where do I confirm Michigan auto minimums?
The DIFS auto insurance guide and FAQ.
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.