JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.,
24
May
2019
|
13:58 PM
America/Chicago

Tornadoes and Severe Storms Cut a Wide Swath Across Missouri

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.

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 resource are spread thin.

 

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.

 

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About State Farm®:

For over 100 years, the mission of State Farm has been to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected and realize their dreams. State Farm and its affiliates are the largest providers of auto and home insurance in the United States. Its more than 19,400 agents and 67,000 employees serve over 91 million policies and accounts – including auto, fire, lifehealth, commercial policies and financial services accounts. Commercial auto insurance, along with coverage for rentersbusiness ownersboats and motorcycles, is also available. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies. State Farm is ranked No. 44 on the 2023 Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit http://www.statefarm.com.

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