2018 California Wildfires Recovery Update

State Farm continues to work with its customers and the communities affected by the 2018 wildfires. The Car, Camp, Hill, and Woolsey fires devasted California communities like Paradise.

Rebuilding homes and neighborhoods takes time. Putting lives back together takes a toll on individuals, families and the community-at-large. The commitment to helping our customers recover continues.

As of mid-September 2019, State Farm has received approximately 8,100 home and auto claims related to these fires. Almost $1.3 billion has been paid on those claims.*

History of the State Farm response to the 2018 wildfires:

• As each wildfire event broke out, State Farm immediately began to position resources. People and equipment from across the country was deployed to the areas most impacted.
• Paid almost $1.3 billion in indemnity for the approximately 8,100 claims from the fires.*
• Community grants and volunteer efforts provided by the company and our associates continue to focus on emergency relief, home safety and wildfire preparedness.
• Advanced up to 50% for total loss of building coverage limit.
• Advanced up to 75% for total loss of content coverage limit without an inventory.
• Expedited payment of automobile claims for comprehensive loss coverage.
• Granted billing leniency for at least 30 days for customers in designated disaster areas.
• Allowed grouping of categories of personal property to ease itemization of contents.
• State Farm claim handlers are available to help policyholders complete every step of the inventory process.

* These numbers include the Ventura/Santa Barbara mudflow event. Heavy Jan. rains in the aftermath of the Dec. 2017 Thomas fire triggered that earth movement.

As the country's largest provider of auto and home insurance, we have faced countless significant weather and other major disasters throughout our 97-year history. Our State Farm agents, agent’s staff, local employees and claims specialists are always prepared to help customers with their claims. Before, during and after a catastrophic event, we help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams.

Don't Get Burned Twice: Hire a Reputable Contractor:

• Contact your local home builders association or remodelers council for a directory of reputable contractors.
• Make sure the contractors are currently licensed, registered and insured.
• Get at least three different estimates.
• Insist on a written contract that includes: contractor's contact information, project timeline, payment schedule and permit requirements.

Signs of Poor Business Practices or Possible Scam Involving a Contractor:

• Pushy door-to-door sales tactics or unsolicited calls are common after a disaster.
• Promising discounts for using leftover materials or for referring other customers.
• Insisting on a large deposit or cash payments in full.
• Asking you to secure building permits.
• Unwillingness to provide local contact information.