Michigan FHA 203(h) Disaster Loans: No Down Payment After the April 2026 Storms

The Michigan major disaster declaration: DR-4925

Last checked September 26, 2026. Disaster declarations and designated areas change — always confirm current status with FEMA and with Matthew.

Active FEMA's data shows major disaster DR-4925 declared for Michigan on June 30, 2026 (FEMA's press release is dated July 3), for severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding during the incident period of April 10–21, 2026.

Because this is a Presidential major disaster declaration with Individual Assistance designated for specific counties, it's the kind of declaration FHA's 203(h) program is built around. That makes Michigan the most active 203(h) opportunity on this site right now.

Michigan also had earlier 2026 ice-storm declarations that were Public Assistance only. Public-assistance-only declarations don't typically open 203(h), so if your damage came from that earlier ice storm rather than the April storms, talk with Matthew about other options.

The deadline: around June 30, 2027

FHA generally requires the case number for a 203(h) loan to be assigned within one year of the declaration date. For Michigan's June 30, 2026 declaration, that points to around June 30, 2027. Confirm the exact date with Matthew — lenders may also set their own internal cutoffs slightly earlier to allow for processing.

Rebuild or replace? Thinking it through in Michigan

The April storms caused different kinds of damage, and each one points toward different choices:

• Tornado damage often leaves a home structurally unsound even when part of it is still standing. If a structural engineer or local building official says it must come down, rebuilding on the lot — possibly with 203(h) combined with 203(k) — or buying elsewhere are both on the table.
• Flood damage brings its own questions. If your home is in a mapped floodplain and was substantially damaged, local rules may require the rebuilt home to be elevated or otherwise brought up to current floodplain standards. That can add cost and time, and it's a major reason some families decide to buy a replacement home on higher ground. Check with your local building department before committing.
• Wind and tree damage to roofs and framing is sometimes repairable. If the home can be repaired, 203(h) may not be the right fit — but a standard 203(k) might.

Northern Michigan's short building season matters too. Contractors book up after a disaster, and winter can pause exterior work. If rebuilding would stretch well beyond a year, a replacement home may be more practical. The rebuild guide walks through the trade-offs.

Working with your insurance company

Your insurance claim and your 203(h) plan are closely connected. A few practical pointers:

• Know which coverage applies. Standard homeowner's policies typically cover wind and tornado damage but exclude flood; flood damage is usually covered only by a separate flood insurance policy. The answer affects how much money you'll have to work with.
• Understand where the check goes. If you have a mortgage, insurance checks for the dwelling are often made out to you and your servicer together. Ask your servicer how they release funds.
• Get the adjuster's report in writing. It documents the level of damage, which matters for 203(h).
• Keep additional living expense receipts. Many policies pay for temporary housing while you're displaced.

Matthew can review how your insurance proceeds and any existing mortgage payoff fit together in a new loan.