Start at the inspection, not at closing
The inspection report tells you the roof age, the electrical panel, the plumbing material, the furnace and whether the basement has taken water. Those are the exact questions a carrier asks. Send the report to Carly the day you get it. If something in it is a problem for insurability — an older roof, certain panel brands, knob-and-tube — you find out while you can still negotiate.
What the lender needs
The lender wants a binder or evidence of insurance showing the dwelling limit meets its requirement, the lender listed as mortgagee, and the first year’s premium handled at closing. If the property is in a flood zone, a flood policy too. Carly sends this directly to the title company or closer; tell her the closing date and who is handling it.
Claims history on the house
A CLUE report shows prior claims at the address. A water claim in 2021 is common on the east side and is not disqualifying, but the carrier will want to know what was fixed — a backflow valve, a new sump, waterproofing. Ask the seller.
Bundle the review
A move is the natural moment to look at auto and umbrella alongside the home. Multi-policy discounts are real, and the liability picture changes when you own a larger house on a busier street.
This guide is general information about insurance in Michigan, not advice about a specific policy. Coverage depends on the policy’s terms, limits, exclusions and eligibility, and a request does not bind or change insurance.