State Farm Mobilizing Adjusters to Respond to Katrina

August 26, 2005

State Farm, the largest insurer of homes and automobiles in Florida and the nation, has mobilized claims adjusters to join Florida employees, agents and agents' staff who are already assisting customers recovering from Hurricane Katrina.

Members of State Farm's Catastrophe Team, a group of specially trained claims adjusters are already en route to areas near the hurricane's path. At this time, some claims are being handled in-person by local agents and claims personnel, and over the phone. In many cases, however, local emergency authorities are not allowing access to severely damaged areas because of safety concerns. Claims adjusters are ready to enter those neighborhoods when they are deemed safe.

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