State Farm Mobilizes Katrina Cleanup Team

State Farm has mobilized claims adjusters to join Florida employees, agents and agents’ staff who are already assisting customers recovering from Hurricane Katrina.

Members of State Farm’s Catastrophe Team are already en route to areas near the hurricane’s path. At this time, some claims are being
handled in-person by local agents and claims personnel, and over the phone.

In many cases, however, local emergency authorities are not allowing access to severely damaged areas because of safety concerns. Claims adjusters are ready to enter those neighborhoods when they are deemed safe.

Homeowners with damaged property should make sure it is safe to re-enter their property before attempting to assess damage. Once it is determined to be safe, homeowners should make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Save receipts if one purchases items such as tarps and plywood or other supplies to make repairs.

Policyholders residing in the damaged area should first try to contact their State Farm agent to report their claims. If that is not possible, customers can call 1-800-SFCLAIM (732-5246) to report their damage. The policyholders’ information will then be provided to claims adjusters. Out-of- state policyholders should call their State Farm agent to report their claims.