Good Neighbor Stories

Who clears my property?

How do I complete a personal contents inventory of my damaged property?

How long does coverage last for a typical insurance policy?

Does State Farm have the resources to pay all of these claims?

What if I experience multiple storms in one season?

What are my first steps if I have damage?

When it is safe to do so, make (or have a contractor make) temporary repairs to prevent further damage to your home or property.
Save receipts if you purchase items such as tarps, plywood or other supplies to make repairs.
Take photos/videos of damage for claim documentation.
To get the claims process started, you can file your claim online, call 1-800-SFCLAIM (800-732-5246) or contact your State Farm agent.

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What can you expect after initially filing a claim?

After a claim has been filed, a State Farm claims specialist will contact you to discuss the extent of damage and review your policy coverages.
The complexity and collaboration needed to investigate a claim can sometimes take time, and is necessary for a proper evaluation of your claim.
If at any time during the claims process, you have questions, do not hesitate to ask your claims specialist. We know this can be a difficult and confusing time. We are here to help you 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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Does my homeowner’s policy cover hurricane damage?

Unless the damage is excluded in the policy, a typical homeowners policy provides coverage for accidental direct physical loss to your dwelling and may also provide coverage for personal property damage from a hurricane. Flood damage is not covered.

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What type of things are not covered by the typical homeowners policy during a hurricane?

Flooding is not covered under homeowners policies. It is a separate coverage that can be purchased through the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program. State Farm agents enrolled in the NFIP Direct Program are able to write and service flood insurance coverage directly through the federal government program. Homeowners who have flood coverage and have experienced flood damage should report their claim to their flood insurance carrier so that damages can be assessed. To contact NFIP: 1-888-379-9531.
Backup Sewer and Drain: If you have water damage, contact your agent for guidance. Damage from water that enters a home through a sewer, drain, or sump pump is excluded from a homeowners’ policy but coverage may be added to your policy for an additional premium. Homeowners should contact their agent for more information.

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How do you determine what damages my home from the hurricane: flood vs wind?

Policyholders are always encouraged to file a claim should they think they have damage from the hurricane. Coverage and any possible exclusions are then determined during the claims process.

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What is my hurricane Deductible?

The insurance industry uses hurricane deductibles to account for increased exposure in areas prone to major storm events such as hurricanes.
State Farm applies hurricane deductibles when a named storm has been declared by the National Weather Service (NWS).
We encourage State Farm policyholders to review their insurance policy language for the specific provisions related to hurricane deductibles and contact their State Farm agent if they have questions.
When does the hurricane deductible apply? Each state differs on when the hurricane deductible will apply. Generally, it will apply when a named storm has been declared by the National Weather Service (NWS). Other conditions apply and are outlined in the policy.

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How is the hurricane deductible calculated?

Hurricane deductibles vary. If a policy includes one, State Farm policyholders can find it in their policy documents, or they can contact their State Farm agent.

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Am I covered for tree debris removal?

If a windstorm causes a tree to fall but it does not damage your covered real property (such as your house, fence, carport or garage), the homeowners policy does not cover tree debris removal.
If a windstorm causes a tree to fall and it damages your covered real property, then coverage is provided to remove the tree from the house, fence, carport or garage to perform repairs to that property. State Farm will also provide up to $1,000 to remove the tree debris from the residence premises.

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What else do I need to know about removing downed trees from my property?

When hiring a tree removal company you should make sure they are licensed and bonded.
Also make sure tarping (if appropriate) is included in their work (or another contractor) so that once the tree is removed from the structure, additional damage does not occur through an open/exposed roof. Water mitigation/removal is the next step to reduce the damage caused by water that may have entered your house through the exposed areas.
Before signing any contracts, talk with your State Farm claim specialist for guidance following a loss.

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Who is going to help me with my claim?

The State Farm team is here to help. Our claims operation includes a dedicated, mobile workforce, specially trained to handle catastrophe claims. These teams are prepared to go anywhere in the country within hours of being notified. They provide claim service, 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.

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Who clears my property?

State Farm homeowners insurance may provide coverage, subject to policy terms and limits, to remove debris from the residence premises. The responsibility to hire someone to clear your land rests with you. We recommend you contact your claim specialist, as they will be able to determine if coverage applies and how much State Farm will pay. Make sure any removal company is licensed and bonded.

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Who pays for my living expenses?

If covered damage is so extensive that your residence is uninhabitable, then Additional Living Expenses (ALE) may be available. Generally, ALE reimburses you for increased living expenses you incur as a result of your home being uninhabitable and is subject to the deductible and the terms and conditions of the policy. ALE is available to you while your home is uninhabitable and being repaired, replaced or up to 24 months, whichever is shorter, and as otherwise indicated in your specific policy.

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How do I replace everything I have lost?

For personal contents (the Coverage B portion of your policy), typically, you are initially paid actual cash value (replacement cost minus depreciation). Then, when you actually replace the damaged personal contents, you will receive the difference as a replacement cost benefit. This assumes the replacements occur within the designated time frame of the contract.

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How do I complete a personal contents inventory of my damaged property?

Your claim specialist is available to assist customers with completing the inventory. Customers who do not need a face-to-face meeting can provide their inventory to their claim handler for processing or submit them electronically directly to their claim file 24/7.
Customers do not have to wait until their entire inventory is completed to submit to their claim. We encourage submitting inventories by rooms to make it easier for our customers to compile.
State Farm recommends grouping items of similar quality/price/age: For Example: clothing-jeans-20 pair/shirts-30/etc, cleaning supplies, over-the-counter medication/kitchen utensils as this can help expedite the process. Unusual, specialty or high cost items should be listed individually.
Again, if you need any assistance with the contents inventory process, all you have to do is ask your claim specialist for help.

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How long does coverage last for a typical insurance policy?

An insurance policy is a contract. You pay for coverage for a specified amount of time defined as the policy period (for example six months or a year). The contract protects you for that specified amount of time and for losses you incur under that contract.
Coverage is not cumulative year to year, meaning your premiums do not add up like a savings account to be used when there is a claim.

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Does State Farm have the resources to pay all of these claims?

Disasters like these are a reminder that our business is highly volatile. Despite that volatility, our long history of financial strength is what allows us to keep the commitments we have made to our customers, helping to remove some of the uncertainty from their lives during times of loss.
We have faced countless significant weather and other major disasters over our 95-year history, and we stand ready for more as we help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams.

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Will rates go up for my homeowners insurance?

Rates are determined based on our anticipated need to pay future claims, not to make up for past losses. It is important to note many factors are considered when underwriting and pricing a homeowners insurance policy because each customer’s circumstances are unique.
We encourage all of our customers to have a conversation with their agent to make sure they are comfortable with the appropriate coverage for their unique situations, including reviewing discounts available to them that could decrease their premiums.

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What if I experience multiple storms in one season?

Each policy is different and the circumstances around each claim are unique. We encourage customers to speak to their agent about their specific situation and how their deductible would apply.

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Fired Up About State Farm® Arson Dog Class No. 52

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 08:54:00 -0500

Fire is devastating for any homeowner, small business or community. While most are accidental, fires started with gas or fuel to destroy property is a crime. Thanks to the State Farm Arson Dog Program, fire investigators have a secret weapon to locate evidence when arson is suspected.

Arson dogs are trained to work with a human handler and find evidence at fire scenes. The dogs are searching for accelerants such as gas, oil or fuel used to start fires. State Farm is the only company in North America that provides funding for the training of arson dog teams.

The State Farm Arson Dog Program is available to fire departments and law enforcement agencies across the United States. Since its beginning in 1993, the program has placed more than 425 dogs in 46 states, three Canadian provinces and the District of Columbia.

Arson is one of the most difficult crimes to solve, as the evidence literally burns up. Insurance fraud causes billions of dollars in damage each year. In fact, many police and fire departments are seeing an increase in suspicious fires because of business closures, financial challenges and social disruption.

"Fire investigators should have every tool possible to combat this deadly crime," said Heather Paul, State Farm Arson Dog Program Coordinator. “These dogs help fire investigators to do their job. Arson dog teams can quickly locate evidence of accelerants such as gasoline or fuel used to start a fire.”

Meeting and training with a new best friend

All of the dogs are Labrador retrievers and come from animal rescues or disability assistance programs. The dogs are trained months before they meet their human handler and must work for every meal. When the dog smells fuel, they sit down and point with their nose. Their “reward” is a handful of dog food and praise. They can locate accelerants quickly, even if it is buried under debris.

Canine handlers are police detectives or fire investigators. The training class is four weeks long and the handlers know it will be intense. Over the four weeks, the handler and dog will repeat training drills multiple times a day. Food reward dogs only eat from the hand of their handler so these training drills will be repeated multiple times a day for the life until the dog retires.

Following a month of classes and drills, the arson dog teams are tested and certified by the Maine State Police. Once certified, the teams travel back to their communities to begin investigating fires. The dogs live in the home of their handler and they retire in the home of their handler. For the men and women training in the program, working with a dog is a career highlight.

Congratulations to the newly certified teams in Class No. 52!

Fire Chief Billy Dillon & K-9 Piper - Howe Springs Fire Rescue (Florence, SC)
Special Agent Michael Kuban & K-9 Phantom - Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (Springfield, IL)
Special Agent Kenny Arnold & K-9 Gunny - Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (Springfield, IL)
Special Agent Jeff Pride and K-9 PJ - Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (Springfield, IL)
Captain Stephanie Schofield & K-9 Jennifer - Rawlins Fire Department (Rawlins, WY)
Fire Inspector John Neeb & K-9 Mika - West Fargo Fire Department (West Fargo, ND)
Fire Investigator Thomas Cantola & K-9 Maya - Girard Fire Department (Girard, OH)
Fire Investigator Brian Acors & K-9 Erny - Richmond Fire Department (Richmond, VA)
Arson Investigator Darren Jurado & K-9 Brownie - Compton Fire Department (Compton, CA)
Fire Investigator Lee Maness & K-9 Vinny - Cobb County Fire and EMS (Marietta, GA)
Detective Michael Douglas K-9 Ruthie - State of Florida, Division of Investigative & Forensic Services (Tampa, FL)
Detective Cody McIntyre & K-9 Rico - State of Florida, Division of Investigative & Forensic Services (Tallahassee, FL)
Firefighter Brent Autry & K-9 Tony - Milan Fire Department (Milan, TN)
Assistant Fire Chief Jim Kanavy & K-9 Mikey - Scott County Fire Department (Georgetown, KY)

Arson Dog Calendar

Each of this year's class of K-9 crime-fighters is featured on one of the calendar pages below. Click to download.

In the News:

West Fargo Pioneer: Fire corner: Welcoming Mika to the team (09/30/20)

Response to the Nashville Tornado

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 12:06:27 -0600

Dangerous nocturnal tornados hit Nashville and the surrounding area on March 3. East Nashville’s Donelson neighborhood, Mt. Juliet, Lebanon, Cookeville, and other Putnam County, Tennessee locations were also hit by the twisters and accompanying wind and hail damage. More than two dozen people were killed in the EF-3 and EF-4 tornadoes.

Our hearts go out to all those impacted – especially family and friends of those who lost their lives. Safety is paramount as residents assess damage and begin the recovery process.

Start the claim process as soon as possible.

Take steps to prevent further damage as soon as it is safe to do so. There are four ways to start the claim process:

Online at www.statefarm.com/claims
Use the State Farm Mobile App
Call 1-800-SFCLAIM
Contact your State Farm Agent

Hundreds of customers have already filed claims. Our local agents and call center claim specialists are already assisting customers with their most immediate needs, like additional living expenses (ALE). The State Farm Claims Catastrophe Response Team is being deployed to the most heavily impacted areas to assist in the recovery. This additional personnel includes three drone teams.

Customers with damage should:

Inspect your property. Document damage with pictures to share with your claims specialist.
Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Take pictures and save receipts for materials purchased.
Exercise caution when selecting a contractor. Storm recovery can be emotionally and physically draining. Don’t make a quick, emotional decision without recommendations. Obtain detailed written estimates and multiple bids.

Additional insurance considerations and storm recovery tips:

Tree removal can be very expensive right now because resources are spread thin. As a reminder, insurance only pays to remove trees impacting your home, building, fences or other structures. Coverage limits may apply to debris removal coverage.

Be wary of those who might try to capitalize on the storm.

Ask for recommendations
Beware of door-to-door solicited repairs
Get multiple written estimates
Always have a written, detailed estimate
Don’t pay up front. Always inspect the completed work before payment.
If making repairs, consider upgraded roofing materials (upgrades could result in insurance premium discounts).

If you have experienced a power outage:

Never use candles for emergency lighting, use flashlights.
Disconnect any appliances, equipment or electronics that were on when the power went out. When power comes back on, it may come back with momentary “surges” or “spikes”. This can damage computers, air conditioners, refrigerators, etc. Leave one light on so you know when the power returns.
Check to see if your homeowners policy covers damages resulting from outages. Subject to the deductible, your policy may cover spoiled food and other damages.
Use generators safely. If you have a portable generator, only run it outdoors with adequate ventilation. Never use a generator indoors or in attached garages. The exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which can be deadly if inhaled.

The Winter Chill can Lead to Big Bills

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 14:59:23 -0600

Frozen water pipes are a problem in both cold and warmer climates, affecting a quarter-million families each winter, and it can happen in homes with both plastic and copper pipes. When a house's water pipes freeze, the situation is not as simple as calling a plumber. A 1/8-inch crack in a pipe can spew up to 250 gallons of water a day, causing flooding, serious structural damage, and the immediate potential for mold.

In 2019, State Farm paid more than $200 million for over 11,000 homeowners* claims related to frozen pipes across the U.S. Illinois ranks as the #1 state for frozen pipe losses. (*Note: excludes renters and condo unit claims)

“Damage resulting from frozen pipes is the most common winter loss claim,” says State Farm Loss Mitigation Administrator Jeff Feid. “The good news is that most of the time it can be prevented through a few simple steps.”

Click on the numbers in the interactive image below for simple maintenance tips to help prevent property damage.

Theft Prevention Tips for Your Home and Vehicle

Sat, 18 Jan 2020 14:47:00 -0600

Home or vehicle theft and burglary can happen to anyone. Theft is commonly a crime of opportunity, so a few simple precautions can both lower your risk of theft and leave you better prepared to recover if a theft happens to you.

The State FarmⓇ Simple Insights article library offers advice on a wide array of insurance, safety, and financial topics. The following articles on theft prevention are some of the many great references available to help with the challenges of everyday life.

Vehicle theft prevention:

Preventing Car Theft: From your keys to parking choice, there's more you can be doing to prevent theft.
5 Ways to Boost Security for Cars: Follow these tips to help deter thieves and keep your vehicle safe.

Home burglary prevention & recovery:

Protect Yourself Against Home Burglary: When you're home or away, these home burglary prevention ideas preserve security.
13 Ways to Protect Your Home When You Travel: Prevent your house from becoming a target with tips for security during vacation.
Pretend You are Home and More Ways to Deter Burglary: Theft happens, so try these affordable ways to increase security and protect your home.
Home Security: The Latest Burglar-Thwarting Options: The types of home alarm systems and how their features improve your home security.
How to Create a Home Inventory: A home inventory can expedite insurance claims process after theft, damage or loss.

Talk to a State Farm agent today to make sure you understand what coverage is available and how your insurance coverage works.

Recovering from the CA Wildfires: What You Need to Know

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 07:34:00 -0500

What are my first steps?

Does State Farm homeowners insurance provide coverage for debris removal?

How do I complete a personal contents inventory?

Do I get an advance on my personal contents so I can begin replacing items?

What do I need to do to get 100 percent of contents coverage?

Do I have enough insurance to cover the value of my home?

How can I figure out the replacement cost of my home?

How long does coverage last for a typical insurance policy?

Does State Farm have the resources to pay all of these claims?

Will my insurance policy be non-renewed?

I have heard the term "subrogation". What does it mean and how does it affect me as a State Farm customer?

Can State Farm extend my Additional Living Expense coverage benefit beyond the 24 months contractual limit?

The media has reported on the affordability and availability of homeowners insurance in California. Can I find homeowners insurance in California and is it affordable?

What are my first steps?

After a claim has been filed, a State Farm claims handler will contact you to discuss the extent of damage and review what is covered under your policy.
The complexity and collaboration that is needed to make sure we get you back on your feet can sometimes take time and is necessary to make sure we do right by you, our customer.
If at any time during the claims process, you have questions, do not hesitate to ask your claims handler. We know this can be a difficult and confusing time. We are here to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Who is going to help me with my claim?

It will take time but State Farm is here to support you from the beginning until the very end.
The claims process can be complex and it is often necessary to involve multiple claim handlers. This approach to enhanced customer service allows State Farm to provide quality and efficient claim service, 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. Our customers should have confidence that State Farm will bring the necessary people resources to handle our customers’ claims.
State Farm has catastrophe claim teams in the area helping all of our customers recover from this unexpected tragedy. Our claims operation includes a dedicated, mobile workforce, specially trained to handle catastrophe claims and prepared to go anywhere in the country within hours of being notified. Prior to handling California claims, they were thoroughly trained on the specific requirements of California law.

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Does State Farm homeowners insurance provide coverage for debris removal?

State Farm homeowners insurance may provide coverage, subject to policy terms and limits, to remove debris from the residence premises. We recommend you contact your claim handler, as they will be able to determine if coverage applies and how much State Farm will pay.
The choice of who to hire to remove debris from your property is yours. Make sure any removal company is licensed and bonded. Some cities, counties or governmental agencies may offer debris removal in exchange for an agreement that you pay all the money your insurance company pays you for this service.
State Farm does NOT negotiate debris removal expenses with the county, vendor, or any other entity. It is understood that the county, vendor or other entity is hired by you, our insured, and that they work for you – not State Farm.
If you receive invoices, estimates or other documentation for debris removal, contact your claim handler.
Your claim handler is available to assist you with any questions you may have and help facilitate the process with you and the other party.

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Who pays for my living expenses?

If damage is so extensive that your residence is uninhabitable, then Additional Living Expenses (ALE) may be available. Generally, ALE reimburses you for increased living expenses you incur as a result of your home being uninhabitable and is subject to deductible and the terms and conditions of the policy. ALE is available to you while your home is being repaired, replaced or up to 24 months*, whichever is shorter.
- With a recent change in California law, losses arising from a declared disaster occurring after September 21^st 2018, Additional Living Expense (ALE) is available for no less than 24 months and may be extended to 36 months for good cause. Additional 6 months extensions may also be granted for good cause. For the 2017 wildfires that occurred in California (e.g. North Bay Tubbs Fire) State Farm's contract provides ALE coverage for up to 24 months.

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How do I replace everything I have lost?

California law (Insurance Code Section 2071) requires homeowner’s insurers to document customer’s losses and specifically requires an itemized listing of damaged and destroyed property and the value of those items. State Farm’s contract complies with this provision and seeks a listing of all damaged and destroyed property so that an insured is paid for items that were actually lost.
The requirement to complete an inventory of personal contents has been a part of the California insurance code for quite some time. It ensures that each amount paid to a customer after a loss complies with the terms and conditions of their policy contract.
For personal contents (the Coverage B portion of your policy), typically, you are paid actual cash value upfront. Then, when you actually replace the damaged personal contents, you will receive the difference as a replacement cost benefit. This assumes the replacements occur within the designated time frame of the contract (up to 24 months)**.
- ** With a recent change in California law, losses arising from a declared disaster homeowners have up to three years, from the first substantial personal property payment, to replace items per Department of Insurance requirements. This law was effective 09/21/2018. For the 2017 wildfires that occurred in California (e.g. North Bay Tubbs Fire) State Farm's contract allows for items to be replaced up to 2 years from the date of loss
State Farm regularly reminds customers about the importance of completing a personal contents inventory before disaster strikes. The reason why we emphasize this is we want to pay what we owe and an inventory is a tool for customers to make sure they get the full benefits allowed to them within their policy contract.

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How do I complete a personal contents inventory?

Claim resources are available to provide a personalized experience with the customers by offering a face-to-face meeting with the customers to assist them with completing their inventory. Customers who do not need a face-to-face meeting can provide their inventory to their claim handler for processing or submit them electronically directly to their claim file 24/7.
Customers do not have to wait until their entire inventory is completed to submit to their claim. We encourage submitting inventories by rooms to make it easier for our customers to compile.
Contrary to the myth that State Farm requires accounting for every single spoon and pencil, State Farm recommends grouping items of similar quality/price/age: For Example: clothing-jeans-20 pair/shirts-30/etc, cleaning supplies, food, over the counter medication/kitchen utensils as this can help expedite the process.
Again, if you need any assistance with the contents inventory process, all you have to do is ask your claim representative for in-person support. We will be there for you for this and all other aspects of your claim.

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Do I get an advance on my personal contents so I can begin replacing items?

State Farm provides advances to address the immediate needs of our customers.
The advances are designed to provide you flexibility to begin the recovery process.
Generally, customers are initially offered the same percentage of an advance based on the circumstances of the event.
In some cases, advance amounts are increased based on the individual needs/circumstances of the loss.
We are committed to provide every benefit you are entitled to within the policy contract. This includes payment for items you have lost, up to the policy limits.
We have Customer Care representatives that are committed to personalizing your claim experience and supporting you throughout the claim process.

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What do I need to do to get 100 percent of contents coverage?

State Farm is available to support you in completing the contents inventory process.
We are committed to provide every benefit you are entitled to within the policy contract. This includes payment for items you have lost, up to the policy limits.
For personal contents (the Coverage B portion of your policy), typically, you are paid actual cash value upfront. Then, when you actually replace the damaged personal contents, you will receive the difference as a replacement cost benefit. This assumes the replacements occur within the designated time frame of the contract (up to 24 months)**.
- ** With a recent change in California law, losses arising from a declared disaster homeowners have up to three years, from the first substantial personal property payment, to replace items per Department of Insurance requirements. This law was effective 09/21/2018. For the 2017 wildfires that occurred in California (e.g. North Bay Tubbs Fire) State Farm's contract allows for items to be replaced up to 2 years from the date of loss
It’s critical to understand that insurance coverage is based on the principle of ‘indemnity’ – that is, the insurance contract only provides payment for items you have actually lost, up to the policy limits.
We are prepared to provide in-person support to work through various aspects of your claim, in particular the contents inventory.

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Do I have enough insurance to cover the value of my home?

The tragic wildfires are an important reminder to meet with an agent at least annually to review policies and coverage.
It’s critical to understand that market value is different than the replacement cost to rebuild your home. Market value is the amount a buyer would pay for a home, including the land, regardless of how much it would cost to rebuild the home. Replacement cost for this purpose is the rebuilding cost necessary to replace your entire home.
We recommend that you purchase an amount of coverage at least equal to the estimated replacement cost. But the choice is yours. Since it is impossible to predict today what the exact cost will be to replace your home in the future, it's important to have enough coverage to account for unforeseen circumstances.

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How can I figure out the replacement cost of my home?

The amount of insurance coverage selected is up to the customer.
Ask if a replacement cost estimate is available when you have the home appraised or consult with your local builders association or a reputable builder for an estimate.
Building contractors or professional replacement cost appraisers are a good source for obtaining an estimated replacement cost of your home. Estimates from these sources should reflect your home's features. When you upgrade or improve your home, you may increase your home's estimated replacement cost.
Be sure to inform your agent about any changes to your home that may impact your insurance coverage needs.
Replacement cost estimates are influenced by supply of labor, demand for labor, and the cost of construction materials. Keeping up with the current market conditions in your area and changing your home insurance coverage amount accordingly, will help you maintain coverage at least equal to 100 percent of the estimated replacement cost coverage for your home.

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How long does coverage last for a typical insurance policy?

An insurance policy is a contract. You pay for coverage for a specified amount of time defined as the policy period (for example six months or a year). The contract protects you for that specified amount of time and for losses you incur under that contract.
Coverage is not cumulative year to year, meaning your premiums do not add up like a savings account to be used when there is a claim.

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Does State Farm have the resources to pay all of these claims?

Disasters like these are a reminder that our business is highly volatile. Despite that volatility, our long history of financial strength is what allows us to keep the commitments we have made to our customers, helping to remove some of the uncertainty from their lives during times of significant loss.
We have faced countless significant weather and other major disasters over our 97-year history, and we stand ready for countless more as we help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams.

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Will my insurance policy be non-renewed?

There are several laws in California that address significant losses to homes and homeowners insurance policies. For example, following a declared disaster, California law requires that home insurers renew the impacted homeowners’ insurance policy at least once***.
- ***With a recent change in California law in 2019, insurers are generally required to renew the policy for at least the next two annual renewal periods, and no less than 24 months from the date of the loss. For the 2017 wildfires that occurred in California (e.g. North Bay Tubbs Fire) State Farm is required to offer one renewal for policyholders that suffered a full loss.
Many factors are considered when underwriting a homeowner’s insurance policy because each customer’s circumstances are unique. We look at each customer’s situation on a case-by-case basis and try to make sure we treat similar cases fairly and in a consistent manner.
Losses resulting from weather events or catastrophes are included when re-underwriting a policy for continued insurance coverage. Depending on numerous characteristics that are specific to each policy, State Farm may elect to simply renew the policy, send a caution letter regarding overall claim activity, recommend or require repairs/loss mitigation measures or non-renew the risk.
Our customers are our top priority, and we want to be able to meet their needs. It is our intent and obligation to fairly and responsibly manage our business, provide the best possible service, and provide homeowners insurance for all of our customers over the long term.

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Will rates go up for my homeowners insurance?

Rates are determined based on our anticipated need to pay future claims, not to make up for past losses. It is important to note that many factors are considered when underwriting and pricing a homeowners insurance policy because each customer’s circumstances are unique.
We encourage all of our customers to have a conversation with their agent to make sure they are comfortable with the appropriate coverage for their unique situations, including reviewing discounts available to them that could decrease their premiums.

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I have heard the term "subrogation". What does it mean and how does it affect me as a State Farm customer?

State Farm’s commitment to our customers is the same for all claims. That commitment is to pay what we owe promptly, courteously, and efficiently.

After an insurer has paid its customer on a covered claim, it may seek recovery of such claim payments from a legally responsible third party. This process is called subrogation.

Subrogation is a common insurance industry operations practice and is pursued in a wide range of losses from auto accidents to large scale disasters. This process helps State Farm recover the costs associated with claim payments made to affected customers and may also result in the reimbursement of the customer’s deductible.

Subrogation helps State Farm control claim costs and keeps rates low for our customers.

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Can State Farm extend my Additional Living Expense coverage benefit beyond the 24 months contractual limit?

State Farm understands that there are customers facing unique circumstances and situations that are not within their full control. If you have questions about your claim and policy coverage, we would encourage you to reach out to your claim representative. We will work closely with you to address your concerns and see if there is anything more we can do to support you in the recovery process.
- With a recent change in California law, losses arising from a declared disaster occurring after September 21^st 2018, Additional Living Expense (ALE) is available for no less than 24 months and may be extended to 36 months for good cause. Additional 6 months extensions may also be granted for good cause. For the 2017 wildfires that occurred in California (e.g. North Bay Tubbs Fire) State Farm's contract provides ALE coverage for up to 24 months.

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The media has reported on the affordability and availability of homeowners insurance in California. Can I find homeowners insurance in California and is it affordable?

It is important to keep in mind that homeowners insurance covers many more causes of loss other than wildfires. (Examples: Weather - storms, fire, and wind. Non-weather – water loss, theft and vandalism.)

In general, many factors are considered when underwriting a new homeowners insurance policy. State Farm considers factors such as the location of the property relative to natural hazards, condition of the property, and the customer's past claim activity and history.

To keep our promises to all of our homeowner customers, we must find the appropriate balance between our exposure to loss, the resources available to maintain a quality level of service, and our ability to meet our financial obligations to pay claims for all of our California customers.

For some helpful resources and more information on insurance availability and affordability, this website may be helpful to you.

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State Farm® Cuts Home Insurance Rates in Kansas

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 12:42:00 -0500

Current and future State Farm home insurance customers in Kansas will be saving money. State Farm is reducing its Kansas homeowners rates by an average of 2.2 percent. The total statewide expected savings impact for State Farm customers by this rate decrease is approximately $5.1 million.

“At State Farm, we are committed to offering customers the highest quality products and services at competitive prices,” said State Farm Senior Vice President Phillip Hawkins. “This homeowners rate reduction in Kansas is a result of improved trends and positions us to deliver on our mission to help more people in more ways.”

The rate decrease is effective August 15 for new business and October 1 for renewals.

Overall changes in premiums for individual homeowners will vary depending on the specific details of an individual customer’s policy and chosen coverages. Customers with questions can contact their local State Farm agent to discuss their individual situation.

In addition to this rate reduction, State Farm agents are able to review with new and existing customers the many opportunities for additional discounts that may apply to an individual’s unique circumstances. A rate decrease combined with discounts offers an exceptional long-term value to State Farm customers.

Shaken? State Farm is Here to Help

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 10:19:00 -0500

Two magnitude severe earthquakes and thousands of aftershocks have impacted Kern County, California beginning on July 4. The strongest, a 7.1 magnitude quake, hit near Ridgecrest, California on July 5 at 8:29 a.m. local time. The magnitude of both the rolling shakes could be felt in neighboring Nevada and in Los Angeles. While Scientists believe there is a 5% (unlikely) chance of another 7 or above earthquake, be careful and mindful of the risk of aftershocks and follow instructions of local officials. Also, take steps now to be prepared for future events.

In California, earthquake coverage can be purchased through the California Earthquake Authority (CEA). State Farm is a participating member of the CEA.
After a large earthquake event, new CEA policies purchased do not provide coverage for the next 360 hours, or 15 days, for earthquakes that are seismically considered to be part of the initial event.

Customers impacted by the California earthquakes can visit st8.fm/claim or call 1-800-SFCLAIM to file a claim.

Each claim is unique and investigated based on its own merits.

Your agent can also help and give you more time to pay your premium if needed.

Problems paying your loan? Call 1-877-SF4-BANK.

Additional Information Resources:

The Red Cross has an exceptional earthquake preparedness/recovery checklist.
The California Earthquake Authority (CEA) offers seven steps for preparedness and safety; as stated in step four, being prepared can help minimize financial hardship after the shaking has stopped.
ShakeMap on the USGS website.

Be safe:

It is important to follow the instructions of local officials and seek out resources from local evacuation centers and aid stations.
Always make safety the #1 priority when inspecting damage or making temporary repairs.
Drink bottled water or boil tap until you hear that the water supply is safe.
If it’s safe to go home, check for gas and turn off the main valve if you smell anything.
If it is safe to enter your home, check for gas leaks and electrical problems.
Make temporary repairs to protect your home from further damage and save all receipts. Coverage may be available for these expenses.

Earthquake insurance quick facts:

EQ insurance is sold as a separate endorsement.
The premium varies based on several factors including: age of home, building materials and proximity to known fault lines.
Your auto insurance will typically provide coverage for damages caused by an earthquake, if Comprehensive Coverage is carried on the policy.

In the News:

KGET-TV (Bakersfield, CA - 7/8/2019) Earthquake insurance explained by local insurance agent
KERO-TV (Bakersfield, CA - 7/52019) Agent advised homeowners to consider getting additional coverage for earthquakes

Home Insurance Cut for State Farm® Customers in West Virginia

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 08:00:00 -0500

Current and future State Farm® home insurance customers in West Virginia will be saving money. Effective June 15, 2019, for new business and Aug. 1, 2019, for renewals, State Farm is reducing its West Virginia homeowners rates by an average of 3.8 percent. The total statewide expected savings impact for State Farm customers by this rate decrease is approximately $3.8 million.

“At State Farm, we are committed to offering customers the highest quality products and services at competitive prices,” said State Farm Senior Vice President Chris Schell. “This homeowners rate reduction in West Virginia is a result of improved trends and positions us to deliver on our mission to help more people in more ways.”

State Farm is Here to Help Ohio Customers with Storm Damage

Wed, 29 May 2019 10:59:55 -0500

In the early morning hours of May 28, severe storms and tornados struck several communities across western Ohio. One fatality, many injuries and damaged or destroyed homes and businesses were left in their path. Our hearts go out to those impacted by these devastating storms. Safety is paramount as residents assess their damage.

State Farm encourages customers to start the claim process as soon as they can and take steps to prevent further damage. Customers can start the claim process by contacting their agent, calling 1-800-SFCLAIM, using the State Farm Mobile App, or reporting a claim through www.statefarm.com/claims.

State Farm is responding to storm-impacted areas. We will be here to help customers with their claims as we begin the recovery process. State Farm agents, agent’s staff, and local employees are available to help customers with their claims. Our Claims Catastrophe Response Team is being deployed to the most heavily impacted areas to begin assisting our customers.

As a reminder, insurance will only pay to remove trees that are impacting your home, building or other structures or fences. Coverage limits may apply to debris removal coverage. Tree removal can be very expensive right now because resources are spread thin.

Tips to help with storm recovery and insurance considerations:

When safe to do so, make temporary repairs to damaged property.
- For example, to prevent further damage patch holes or cover windows to prevent rain from entering the house
- Depending on your coverage, these repairs may be reimbursed. Save receipts if you purchase items such as tarps and plywood or other supplies to make repairs.
Document damage by taking photos.
If you have experienced a power outage, never use candles for emergency lighting. Instead, use flashlights.
- Disconnect any appliances, equipment or electronics that were on when the power went out.
- When power comes back on, it may come back with momentary “surges” or “spikes.” This can damage computers, air conditioners, refrigerators, etc. Leave one light on so you know when the power returns.
- Your homeowner policy may cover spoiled food and other damages as a result of power outages, subject to the deductible. Check with your insurance company to see if your policy covers damages resulting from outages.
Use generators safely. If you have a portable generator, only run it outdoors with adequate ventilation. Never use a generator indoors or in attached garages. The exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which can be deadly if inhaled.
Deal with a reputable contractor. While there are many good and reputable contractors in the state, be wary of those who might try to capitalize on the storm. State Farm claims specialists offer these tips to consider. Among the many preventative measures we recommend:
- Shop around, get recommendations, inspect their work.
- Get three written estimates and have a written detailed estimate.
- Do not pay for work up front or sign a contract with any blank spaces. Always inspect the completed work before payment.
- Beware of door-to-door unsolicited repairs.
- If making roof repairs, consider upgraded roofing materials. These upgrades could result in insurance premium discounts.
- State Farm customers also have access to a Contractor Locator. Available through their online StateFarm.com account, it provides a list of contractors known to State Farm. It is up to the consumer to pick the contractor. State Farm does not warranty or guarantee the work.

Tornadoes and Severe Storms Cut a Wide Swath Across Missouri

Fri, 24 May 2019 13:58:00 -0500

On the night of Wednesday, May 22, severe storms and tornados struck communities across Missouri, resulting in three fatalities, many injuries, and many damaged or destroyed homes and businesses. Our hearts go out to family and friends of those who lost their lives to these devastating storms, and to all those impacted. Safety is paramount as residents assess their damage.

State Farm encourages customers to start the claim process as soon as they can and take steps to prevent further damage. Customers can start the claim process by contacting their agent, calling 1-800-SFCLAIM, using the State Farm Mobile App or reporting a claim through www.statefarm.com/claims

State Farm is responding to storm-impacted areas, and will be here to help customers with their claims as we begin the recovery process. State Farm agents, agent’s staff, and local employees are available to help customers with their claims, and our Claims Catastrophe Response Team is being deployed to the most heavily impacted areas to begin assisting our customers.

Tips to help with storm recovery and insurance considerations:

Make temporary repairs to damaged property: When it is safe to do so, those who’ve experienced property damage should have reasonable temporary repairs made to prevent further damage (for example, patching holes or covering windows to prevent rain from entering the house). Depending on your coverage, these repairs may be reimbursed. Save receipts if you purchase items such as tarps and plywood or other supplies to make repairs.

Document damage by taking photos.

Working with contractors: While there are many good and reputable contractors in the state, be wary of those who might try to capitalize on the storm.
- Ask for recommendations
- Be aware of door-to-door solicited repairs
- Get multiple written estimates
- Always have a written, detailed estimate
- Don’t pay up front. Always inspect the completed work before payment.
- If making repairs, consider upgraded roofing materials (upgrades could result in insurance premium discounts).

If you have experienced a power outage, never use candles for emergency lighting, use flashlights.
- Disconnect any appliances, equipment or electronics that were on when the power went out.
- When power comes back on, it may come back with momentary “surges” or “spikes” that can damage computers, air conditioners, refrigerators, etc. Leave one light on so you know when the power returns.
- Your homeowner policy may cover spoiled food and other damages as a result of power outages, subject to the deductible. Check with your insurance company to see if your policy covers damages resulting from outages.

Use generators safely. If you have a portable generator, only run it outdoors with adequate ventilation. Never use a generator indoors or in attached garages. The exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which can be deadly if inhaled.

State Farm® Florida Cuts Home Insurance Rates

Thu, 16 May 2019 07:00:00 -0500

State Farm® Florida current and future home insurance customers will be saving money. State Farm Florida is reducing its home insurance rates by an average of 14.4 percent. The total statewide savings impact for customers will be approximately $95.9 million.

“State Farm Florida is always evaluating how we can best serve our customers. We are very pleased to be able to offer this rate decrease,” said Dan Krause, State Farm Senior Vice-President. “There were several factors supporting the decision to lower rates. Among them were stable, non-catastrophe loss trends and the strength of State Farm Florida."

The rate decrease is effective May 15 for new business and July 1 for renewals.

Overall changes in premiums for individual homeowners will vary. Rates depend on a customer’s policy and chosen coverage. New and existing customers can contact their local State Farm agent to discuss their individual situation. Additional opportunities for discounts may apply.

A rate decrease, combined with discounts, offers exceptional long-term value to State Farm customers.

These Noses Know Arson: Congratulations to State Farm® Arson Dog Program Class #51

Fri, 10 May 2019 15:31:00 -0500

Many people assume arson fires do not affect them if the fire did not damage their own property. However, arson fires can have a significant impact on the property values of all neighborhood structures. This crime results in increased taxes to support law enforcement and fire departments. Indirect impacts like lost jobs, lost property tax revenue, and tax dollars spent to investigate and prosecute arson cases push arson costs even higher.

As the nation’s largest homeowners’ insurer, State Farm is well aware of the severity and impact of arson on businesses and public safety. That is why State Farm funds the acquisition and training of accelerant detection canine teams. Commonly called arson dogs, more than 400 teams have been created since 1993. The teams conduct fire investigation in 45 U.S. states, three Canadian provinces and the District of Columbia. Outside of state or federal agencies, no other company in North America provides arson dog program funding.

An arson dog is one trained to detect and locate trace amounts of ignitable liquids. Things like gasoline, turpentine, and other flammable solvents are used to start fires. The use of arson dogs significantly aids law enforcement and fire investigation. Arson dogs save time and money by pinpointing sample collection locations.

Labrador retrievers are the arson dog breed of choice. Their curiosity, high energy, and tracking ability helps them quickly adapt to the training and socialization. Arson dogs are often “career change” or “second career” canines. They come from animal shelters, guide dog or disability programs and animal rescue organizations. Perhaps not suited for a companion or guide dog program, they did have needed skills for another job. In essence, these dogs have a second chance to serve their communities.

Being a dog's human handler is an enormous commitment. Even on days off or during vacations, they still have to train in order to feed their dog. Unlike a typical dog owner, these men and women can’t simply put down a bowl of food. Their canine partners are trained with food rewards. This means the handlers must run training drills multiple times daily to feed their dog and then document this training in detail.

For more information about the State Farm Arson Dog Program, visit www.arsondog.org.

Congratulations to the sixteen new K9 crime-fighting teams! Learn more about each of the teams below.

Captain Robby Simpson and K9 Sonny

Phoenix Fire Department (Phoenix, AZ)

Captain Robby Simpson is a fire investigator and medic with the Phoenix Fire Department. Captain Simpson spent 28 years on a fire truck before becoming a fire investigator and has always dreamed of working with an accelerant detection canine. This is his first canine partner and the fourth team trained through the State Farm Arson Dog Program for the City of Phoenix. In fact, the first arson dog team for the Phoenix Fire Department was trained through the program 26 years ago in April 1993.

Investigator Jodie Grisdale and K9 Willow

Calgary Fire Department (Calgary, Alberta, Canada)

Fire Investigator Jodie Grisdale has been with the Calgary Fire Department for 12 years. She has been a fire investigator for two years. When she joined the Inspection and Investigations department, her dream was to work with an arson dog. In April 2019, her dream came true and she is now certified with K9 Willow. While this is her first canine partner, it is the third team trained through the State Farm Arson Dog Program for the City of Calgary.

Inspector Joseph Cox and K9 Camy

St. Lucie County Fire District (Port St. Lucie, FL)

Inspector Joe Cox is a Fire Investigator/Inspector with the St. Lucie County Fire District in southern Florida. He has worked for the Lucie County Fire District for 22 years and spent the past four years investigating for the St. Lucie County Fire Marshal's Office. Prior to entering the Fire Marshal's Office, Cox was a Firefighter and Paramedic. This is his first canine partner and the first for the department.

Investigator Matt Huffman and K9 Shay-Ley

Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office (Jacksonville, FL)

Investigator Matt Huffman has been a Detective/ Fire Investigator with the State of Florida Bureau of Fire, Arson and Explosives Investigations Division for a little over two years. He is currently assigned to the Jacksonville office but covers numerous counties in northeast Florida. Investigator Huffman retired from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office in 2016 after 25 years of service. This may be his first canine partner, but he joins five other certified teams with the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office that are trained through the State Farm Arson Dog Program. Since 1998, 23 teams have been trained for the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office through the State Farm Arson Dog Program.

Investigator Bobby Joe Brown and K9 Sasha

Illinois State Fire Marshal (Springfield, IL)

Arson Investigator Bobby Joe Brown is with the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal. He began his fire service career in 1991 as a volunteer firefighter before being hired full-time in 1995. He was promoted to Fire Captain/Paramedic and continued that role until 2004 before becoming Fire Chief of the Beardstown department. In 2008 he left the department to become a fire investigator. This is his first canine partner. Bobby Joe and K9 Sasha join seven certified teams actively investigating fires for the State of Illinois who were trained through the State Farm Arson Dog program. Since 1993, 22 teams have been trained for the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office through the State Farm Arson Dog Program.

Special Agent Greg Vespa and K9 Ross

Illinois State Fire Marshal (Springfield, IL)

Special Agent Greg Vespa is with the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal, covering the Greater Metro East area of Southern Illinois, more commonly known as the East St. Louis area.

Most of Greg’s career has been in Law Enforcement, with some volunteer fire service and full time paramedic service in there as well. He joined the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office in 2006 and during his time as a special agent, has worked three other accelerant canines. K9 Ross is his fourth partner. Greg and K9 Ross join seven certified teams actively investigating fires for the State of Illinois who were trained through the State Farm Arson Dog program. Since 1993, 22 teams have been trained for the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office through the State Farm Arson Dog Program.

Search and Rescue Program Manager Lillian Hardy and K9 Misty

Indiana Department of Homeland Security (Indianapolis, IN)

Lillian Hardy has been involved in search and rescue since 1981. She started as a volunteer working with Civil Air Patrol in California and has served as a Los Angeles Chapter Disaster Assistance team member of American Red Cross; director and founding member of Illinois Search and Rescue, member of Midwest Search dogs in Indiana and has served as a regional representative for the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR) and has worked as an EMT/Paramedic. Since 1993, Lillian has been a certified master canine trainer through National K9 training center and since June 2004, Lillian has been the Search and Rescue Program Manager for the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. This is her first accelerant detection canine partner and she will have the entire state of Indiana as her territory.

Operator Ryan Percle and K9 Dakota

New Orleans Fire Department (New Orleans, LA)

Operator Ryan Percle is a fire truck engineer with the New Orleans Fire Department and has been with the department for 21 years. While this is his first arson canine partner, his dog is a veteran. Ryan and his family took in K9 Dakota after her previous handler was unable to continue the program several years ago. K9 Dakota was trained through the State Farm Arson Dog program in 2015 and then again in 2019.

Captain Justin Shea and K9 Linus

Prince George’s County Fire/EMS (Lanham, MD)

Captain Justin Shea is with the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department and has been a member of the department for 14 years. He spent the first seven years of his career riding a fire truck and ambulance before joining the Fire Marshal’s Office, where he has investigated fires for the past seven years. This is his first canine partner and they will investigate fires east of Washington, DC.

Lieutenant Craig Matthews and K9 Sowell

Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services (Marriottsville, MD)

Lt. Craig Matthews has been with Howard County Fire and Rescue for 18 years. This is his first canine partner and the fourth team for Howard County trained through the State Farm Arson Dog Program. Lt. Matthews and K9 Sowell are replacing the current canine team in Howard County, Lt. Carlton Saunders and K9 Jet., who will retire at the end of 2019. Their investigation territory includes Columbia and Baltimore City in Maryland.

Investigator Solomon Rosman and K9 Reeves

New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office (Concord, NH)

Investigator Sol Rosman is with the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office and has a lengthy career as an EMT, paramedic, police officer, firefighter, and fire investigator. Rosman began his career as a first responder while at college when he became an EMT. He spent several years as an EMT before moving to New Hampshire and becoming a paramedic. He also became a part-time police officer and worked for a few small towns before attending the police academy. Prior to joining the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office three and a half years ago, Rosman was a firefighter and paramedic for eight years. This is his first canine partner and the 9th canine team for NH SFMO. In fact, the NH SFMO has been in the program since the very first training class in February 1993.

Detective Michael Burns and K9 Dodger

City of Pittsburgh Police Department (Pittsburgh, PA)

Detective Mike Burns has been an officer with the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police since 1993. He was assigned to the Fire Investigation Unit in 2000 and has been with the department Bomb Squad for the last 12 years. This is his first canine partner and they will be investigating fire scenes in and around the city of Pittsburgh.

Arson Investigator Peter Sword and K9 Wizard

Providence Fire Department (Providence, RI)

Arson Investigator Peter Sword is with the City of Providence Fire Department in Rhode Island. He has been a member of the department for 27 years, spending most of that time on engine companies with a two year stint on rescue in between. He transferred to the fire investigation unit five years ago before being promoted to Arson Investigator. This will be his first canine partner and he will replace the retired team of Sean Reddy and K9 Tyler, also trained through the State Farm Arson Dog Program.

Lieutenant John Perry and K9 Sam

Burton Fire District (Beaufort, SC)

Lt. John Perry is a fifth-generation firefighter who has worked as both a volunteer and career firefighter in his 30-year career. He is currently assigned as a Lieutenant on the busiest engine company in the Burton Fire District. Lt. Perry has spent the last 15 as a fire investigator and the past four years as a handler for Arson K9 Abby, who retired in April 2019. K9 Sam will replace K9 Abby investigating fires in the Bluffton, Beaufort, and Hilton Head areas in South Carolina.

Investigator Ashley Bowen and K9 Liberty

South Padre Island Fire Department (South Padre Island, TX)

Investigator Ashley Bowen has been in the fire service for seven years, and with the South Padre Island Fire Department for four years. She has been a fire investigator for a little over a year now and was recently promoted to fire inspector. This is her first canine partner and the first for the department. Ashley and Liberty have a very large territory of more than 15 counties in southern Texas, extending from Brownsville to Corpus Christi.

Assistant Fire Marshal Chris Persons and K9 Pyper

Hampton Fire Marshal’s Office (Hampton, VA)

Assistant Fire Marshal Chris Persons is with the Hampton Division of Fire and Rescue located in Virginia. He began his career in the fire service as a volunteer prior to becoming a career firefighter. He has been a firefighter for the past six years and this is his first canine partner. Chris and K9 Pyper have big shoes to fill. They are replacing Jesse Gomes and K9 Taylor, who have been investigating fires in the Hampton/Newport News area in Virginia since completing their training in the State Farm Arson Dog Program in 2008. This is also the 4^th team trained for the Hampton Fire Department through the program. The first team was trained in 1998.

State Farm® Dog Bite Claims Decreased in 2018

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 09:00:00 -0500

Owning a pet is a big responsibility. Dog owners are responsible not only for the health and safety of their pet, but also protecting people from injury. Most dogs will never bite but it is important to remember that any dog, regardless of breed or type, can bite under certain circumstances. Over the last year, dog bite claims have decreased. In 2018, State Farm paid $123 million dollars for 3,280 dog bite and injury claims. This is a decrease of 9% compared to the number of dog bite claims in 2017 and a decrease of 7% in the amount paid.

State Farm is a member of the National Dog Bite Prevention Week® (April 7-13, 2019) Coalition. The insurer joins the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.), and American Humane to draw attention to dog bites and ways to reduce injuries to people and pets. State Farm is also one of the few insurance companies in the country that does not have a breed restriction list and does not exclude homeowner or renter insurance coverage because of the breed of dog owned. Under the right circumstances any dog might bite.

Information from the National Dog Bite Prevention Week Coalition

American Veterinary Medical Association estimates there are approximately 78 million dogs in U.S. homes and each year 4.5 million people are bitten or injured by dogs. “Even the gentlest dog can bite if they are in pain, feel threatened, or are competing for resources such as food or space,” said Dr. John de Jong, AVMA President. “Not only is it important to understand how dogs behave, it is important to understand how a dog may interpret our behavior.” AVMA’s ‘Jimmy the Dog’ video series lets preschoolers look at how a dog might interpret different scenarios.
Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) reports that dog bites and other dog-related injuries accounted for nearly one third of all homeowners liability claim dollars paid out in 2018, costing $675 million. An analysis of homeowners insurance data by the I.I.I. found that the number of dog bite claims nationwide decreased to 17,297 in 2018, compared to 18,522 in 2017– a 6.6 percent decrease. The average cost per claim increased by 5.3 percent. The average cost paid out for dog bite claims was $39,017. in 2018, compared with $37,051 in 2017.
American Humane says that dog bites are a double tragedy affecting both people and animals. “A dog bite can have a devastating effect not only on the victim, but on the dog, who may be euthanized,” says Robin Ganzert, PhD, president and CEO of American Humane. Because of the high risk involving dogs, babies, and children, American Humane offers a free online booklet called Pet Meets Baby that provides families with valuable information on introducing a new child to a home with a dog.

Professional perspective from Dr. Marty Becker and Victoria Stilwell

State Farm believes that educating dog owners about being responsible will help reduce dog-related injuries. The insurance company focuses on educating people and pet professionals about dog body language and safely interacting with dogs by working with two of the most prominent experts in the field of dog training and veterinary medicine; celebrity dog trainer Victoria Stilwell and America’s Veterinarian, Dr. Marty Becker.

“Dogs don’t just bite ‘out of the blue’. Most bites are a perfect storm of situation and circumstance, but because dogs’ physical and vocal language is frequently misinterpreted or signals are missed, people often put themselves or others at risk and dogs are blamed as a result,” says Stilwell. “Education is the only way to reduce dog bite incidents in this country, which is why I am proud to stand alongside State Farm and other members of the coalition, to raise awareness about this issue and to educate people about dog bite prevention.”

“As a society we increasingly consider dogs to be family members and rely on them for unconditional love,” says Dr. Becker. “A clearer understanding of canine behavior and how our own actions can make us safer is essential if we want to continue to benefit from the presence of dogs in our daily lives.”

Tips on being a responsible dog owner

NEVER leave a baby or small child alone with a dog, even if it is a family pet. Children are often bitten by dogs in their own household.
Make sure your pet is socialized so it feels at ease around people and other animals.
Walk and exercise your dog on a leash to keep it healthy and provide mental stimulation.
Regular veterinary visits are essential to regulating the health of your dog. A sick or injured dog is more likely to bite.
Be alert. If someone approaches you and your dog, caution them to wait before petting the dog. Give your pet time to be comfortable with the stranger.
Understand and respond to changes in your dogs’ body language. Look at the eyes, ears, tail, and posture to know when your dog may be happy, fearful, or angry.

Hail Happens: Stay Safe During Severe Storms

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 00:01:00 -0500

There are approximately 3,000 hailstorms in the U.S. every year. Hail often occurs during severe weather patterns, such as strong thunderstorms, causing billions of dollars in damage to buildings, vehicles, and crops annually.

In 2018, State Farm paid more than $2.7 billion for more than 280,000 auto and homeowners insurance hail damage claims.

Here are some tips from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to keep you and your family safe during a hailstorm.

In an Automobile

Stop driving. If you see a safe place close-by (like inside a garage, under a highway overpass or under a service station awning), drive to it as soon as you can. Make sure you pull completely off the highway.
Do NOT leave the vehicle until it stops hailing.
Stay away from car windows. Cover your eyes with something, like a piece of clothing. If possible, get onto the floor facedown or lie down on the seat with your back to the windows.
Put very small children under you and cover their eyes.

In a Building

Stay inside until the hail stops.
Stay away from windows.
Account for all family members, building occupants, pets, etc.
Do not go outside for any reason.
To avoid the danger of electrocution from lightning, avoid using phones and electrical appliances during a severe storm.

Outside

Seek shelter immediately. If you can’t find something to protect your entire body, find something to protect your head.
Stay out of culverts and lowland areas that may suddenly fill with water.
Seeking shelter under trees should be a last resort. It is common during severe storms for trees to lose branches.

The shareable, interactive image below shows more hail facts when you hover over the "+" signs.

Celebrate the Big Game Safely

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 12:01:00 -0600

Click the numbers on the interactive image below for tips to keep your party penalty-free.

Frozen Pipe Losses Up in 2018

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 13:09:00 -0600

Extreme cold temperatures can create costly problems for property owners. State Farm claims data shows that losses related to frozen pipes in 2018 totaled more than $270 million, an increase of more than $162 million from 2017. If the outside temperature drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, water pipes in homes with insufficient insulation may freeze and break. Click on the numbers in the interactive image below for simple maintenance tips to help prevent property damage.

Top five states for frozen pipe water loss claims:

Illinois
New York
Pennsylvania
Tennessee
Texas

In the News:

WGLT (Bloomington, IL): How To Avoid Frozen Pipes When Temperatures Plunge (01/29/19)

Alaska Earthquake Frequently Asked Questions

Tue, 08 Jan 2019 16:43:05 -0600

Is damage from an earthquake covered under my State Farm homeowners policy?

What are my first steps?

Does the State Farm earthquake endorsement provide coverage for debris removal?

How do I complete a personal contents inventory?

Do I get an advance on my personal contents so I can begin replacing items?

What do I need to do to get 100 percent of contents coverage?

Do I have enough insurance to cover the value of my home?

How can I figure out the replacement cost of my home?

How long does coverage last for a typical insurance policy?

Does State Farm have the resources to pay all of these claims?

Will my insurance policy be non-renewed?

I have heard the term "subrogation". What does it mean and how does it affect me as a State Farm customer?

Is damage from an earthquake covered under my State Farm homeowners policy?

No, damage from an earthquake is not covered under a standard State Farm homeowner insurance policy in Alaska. However, State Farm will pay for any accidental direct physical loss by fire resulting from earth movement, provided the resulting fire loss is itself a loss insured.
If the risk is eligible, insurance coverage for earthquake damage can be purchased as an endorsement to your State Farm homeowners insurance policy. Customers with questions about the earthquake endorsement can contact their local State Farm agent.

[TOP]

What are my first steps?

After a claim has been filed, a State Farm claims specialist will contact you to discuss the extent of damage and review what is covered under your policy.
If at any time during the claims process, you have questions, do not hesitate to ask your claims specialist. We know this can be a difficult and confusing time. We are here to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

[TOP]

Who is going to help me with my claim?

State Farm is here to support you from the beginning until the very end.
The claims process can be complex and it is often necessary to involve multiple claim specialists. This approach to enhanced customer service allows State Farm to provide quality and efficient claim service, 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. Our customers should have confidence that State Farm will bring the necessary people resources to handle our customers’ claims.
State Farm has catastrophe claim teams in the area. Our claims operation includes a dedicated, mobile workforce, specially trained to handle catastrophe claims and prepared to go anywhere in the country within hours of being notified.

[TOP]

Does the State Farm earthquake endorsement provide coverage for debris removal?

A State Farm earthquake endorsement may provide coverage, subject to policy terms and limits, to remove debris from the residence premises. We recommend you contact your claim specialist, as they will be able to determine if coverage applies and how much State Farm will pay.
The choice of who to hire to remove debris from your property is yours. Make sure any removal company is licensed and bonded. Some cities, counties or governmental agencies may offer debris removal in exchange for an agreement that you pay all the money your insurance company pays you for this service.
State Farm does NOT negotiate debris removal expenses with the county, vendor, or any other entity. It is understood that the county, vendor or other entity is hired by you, our insured, and that they work for you – not State Farm.
If you receive invoices, estimates or other documentation for debris removal, contact your claim specialist.
Your claim specialist is available to assist you with any questions you may have and help facilitate the process with you and the other party.

[TOP]

Who pays for my living expenses?

If a covered loss occurs and damage is so extensive that your residence is uninhabitable, then Additional Living Expenses (ALE) may be available. Generally, ALE reimburses you for increased living expenses you incur as a result of your home being uninhabitable and is subject to the deductible and the terms and conditions of the policy. ALE is available to you while your home is being repaired or replaced, whichever is shorter.

[TOP]

How do I replace everything I have lost?

For personal contents (the Coverage B portion of your policy), typically, you are paid actual cash value upfront. Then, when you actually replace the damaged personal contents, you will receive the difference as a replacement cost benefit. This assumes the replacements occur within the designated time frame of the contract (up to two years).

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How do I complete a personal contents inventory?

Claim resources are available to provide a personalized experience with customers by offering a face-to-face meeting with the customers to assist them with completing their inventory. Customers who do not need a face-to-face meeting can provide their inventory to their claim handler for processing or submit them electronically directly to their claim file 24/7.
Customers do not have to wait until their entire inventory is completed to submit to their claim. We encourage submitting inventories by rooms to make it easier for our customers to compile.
Again, if you need any assistance with the contents inventory process, all you have to do is ask your claim representative for in-person support. We will be there for you for this and all other aspects of your claim.

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Do I get an advance on my personal contents so I can begin replacing items?

State Farm provides advances to address the immediate needs of our customers.
The advances are designed to provide you flexibility to begin the recovery process.
We are committed to provide every benefit you are entitled to within the policy contract. This includes payment for items you have lost, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy, up to the policy limits.
We have claim representatives that are committed to personalizing your claim experience and supporting you throughout the claim process.

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Do I have enough insurance to cover the value of my home?

This tragic earthquake is an important reminder to meet with an agent at least annually to review policies and coverage.
It’s critical to understand that market value is different than the replacement cost to rebuild your home. Market value is the amount a buyer would pay for a home, including the land, regardless of how much it would cost to rebuild the home. Replacement cost for this purpose is the rebuilding cost necessary to replace your entire home.
We recommend that you purchase an amount of coverage at least equal to the estimated replacement cost. But the choice is yours. Since it is impossible to predict today what the exact cost will be to replace your home in the future, it's important to have enough coverage to account for unforeseen circumstances.

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How can I figure out the replacement cost of my home?

The amount of insurance coverage selected is up to the customer.
Building contractors or professional replacement cost appraisers are a good source for obtaining an estimated replacement cost of your home. Estimates from these sources should reflect your home's features. When you upgrade or improve your home, you may increase your home's estimated replacement cost.
Ask if a replacement cost estimate is available when you have the home appraised or consult with your local builders association or a reputable builder for an estimate. If you are unable to obtain a detailed estimate from these sources, a third-party estimating tool is made available to your State Farm agent to assist you with estimating the replacement cost of your home.
Be sure to inform your agent about any changes to your home that may impact your insurance coverage needs.
Replacement cost estimates are influenced by supply of labor, demand for labor, and the cost of construction materials. Keeping up with the current market conditions in your area and changing your home insurance coverage amount accordingly, will help you maintain coverage at least equal to 100 percent of the estimated replacement cost coverage for your home.

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How long does coverage last for a typical insurance policy?

An insurance policy is a contract. You pay for coverage for a specified amount of time defined as the policy period (for example six months or a year). The contract protects you for that specified amount of time and for losses you incur under that contract.
Coverage is not cumulative year to year, meaning your premiums do not add up like a savings account to be used when there is a claim.

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Does State Farm have the resources to pay all of these claims?

Disasters like these are a reminder that our business is highly volatile. Despite that volatility, our long history of financial strength is what allows us to keep the commitments we have made to our customers, helping to remove some of the uncertainty from their lives during times of significant loss.
We have faced countless significant weather and other major disasters over our 96-year history, and we stand ready for countless more as we help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams.

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Will my insurance policy be non-renewed?

Many factors are considered when underwriting a homeowner’s insurance policy because each customer’s circumstances are unique. We look at each customer’s situation on a case-by-case basis to make sure we treat similar cases fairly and in a consistent manner.
Losses resulting from weather events or catastrophes may be included when re-underwriting a policy for continued insurance coverage. Depending on numerous characteristics that are specific to each policy, State Farm may elect to simply renew the policy, send a caution letter regarding overall claim activity, recommend or require repairs/loss mitigation measures or non-renew the risk.
Our customers are our top priority, and we want to be able to meet their needs. It is our intent and obligation to fairly and responsibly manage our business, provide the best possible service, and provide homeowners insurance for all of our customers over the long term.

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Will rates go up for my homeowners insurance?

Rates are determined based on our anticipated need to pay future claims, not to make up for past losses. It is important to note that many factors are considered when underwriting and pricing a homeowners insurance policy because each customer’s circumstances are unique.
We encourage all of our customers to have a conversation with their agent to make sure they are comfortable with the appropriate coverage for their unique situations, including reviewing discounts available to them that could decrease their premiums.

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How to Holiday Safely

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 15:13:55 -0600

Whether on the road or at home, there are things we can do to reduce stress, help prevent mishaps, and keep holiday celebrations merry.

Wishing you and yours a healthy, happy, and SAFE holiday season!

Alaska Earthquake: Be Safe and Mindful of Aftershocks

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 16:14:00 -0600

A 7.0 magnitude earthquake impacted Southern Alaska approximately eight miles north of Anchorage on Nov. 30, 2018 at 8:29 a.m. local time. Be careful and mindful of the risk of aftershocks and follow instructions of local officials.

You can view the ShakeMap on the USGS website.

Customers impacted by the AK earthquake can visit st8.fm/claim or call 1-800-SFCLAIM to file a claim.

Your agent can also help and give you more time to pay your premium if needed.

Problems paying your loan? Call 1-877-SF4-BANK.

Recovery Process: Frequently Asked Questions

Be safe:

It is important to follow the instructions of local officials and seek out resources from local evacuation centers and aid stations.
Always make safety the #1 priority when inspecting damage or making temporary repairs.
Drink bottled water or boil tap until you hear that the water supply is safe.
If it’s safe to go home, check for gas and turn off the main valve if you smell anything.
If it is safe to enter your home, check for gas leaks and electrical problems.
Make temporary repairs to protect your home from further damage and save all receipts. Coverage may be available for these expenses.

Earthquake insurance quick facts:

EQ insurance is sold as a separate endorsement.
The premium varies based on several factors including: age of home, building materials and proximity to known fault lines.
Your auto insurance will typically provide coverage for damages caused by an earthquake, if Comprehensive Coverage is carried on the policy.

Don’t Let Cooking Fires Ruin Your Holiday Season

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 09:27:00 -0600

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking is the leading cause of home fires. One out of three home fires begins in the kitchen - more than any other place in the home. The number one cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. And, NFPA data shows that Thanksgiving Day is the peak day for home cooking fires.

In 2017, State Farm paid more than $130 million for nearly 2,700 cooking/grease fire homeowners* claims across the U.S.

*Note: excludes renters and condo unit claims.

Because many families and friends gather in the kitchen during the holidays, it is important to follow some cooking safety tips to keep your kitchen free of fire risks and hazards.

Here are some easy cooking safety reminders from NFPA and a Recipe4Safety card you can download for your own kitchen.

What you should know about home cooking safety

Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire

Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Safety considerations for cooking with oil

Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop.
Keep an eye on what you fry. If you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and/or carefully remove the pan from the burner. Smoke is a danger sign that the oil is too hot.
Heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sautéing.
Add food gently to the pot or pan so the oil does not splatter.
Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time. Never throw water on the fire.
If the fire does not go out or you don’t feel comfortable sliding a lid over the pan, get everyone out of your home. Call the fire department from outside.

Mouse over the dots on the interactive image below to see the safety tips.

Additional Resources:

Frequently Asked Questions Following a Hurricane

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 14:41:00 -0500

Every situation is different and every claim evaluated to its individual circumstances.

This information is provided as a general resource.

What are my first steps if I have damage?

What can you expect after initially filing a claim?

Does my homeowner's policy cover hurricane damage?

What type of things are not covered by the typical homeowner's policy during a hurricane?

How do you determine what damages my home from the hurricane: flood vs. wind?

What is my hurricane deductible?

How is the hurricane deductible calculated?

Am I covered for tree debris removal?

What else do I need to know about removing downed trees from my property?

Who clears my property?

How do I complete a personal contents inventory of my damaged property?

How long does coverage last for a typical insurance policy?

Does State Farm have the resources to pay all of these claims?