Michael L. Tipsord Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer | Official website
State Farm has announced its efforts to support California customers affected by recent wildfires. The company is deploying its catastrophe response teams to assist those impacted, emphasizing their commitment to helping customers recover from what they describe as the largest fire event they have experienced in the state.
"Our hearts and thoughts go out to the people and communities affected by these fires, as well as the firefighters, first responders, and volunteers who are working tirelessly to contain the fires," a State Farm representative stated. "We are focused on our customers and helping them recover."
As of January 28th, State Farm reported receiving over 10,200 home and auto claims related to the wildfires. They have already distributed more than half a billion dollars in advance payments to affected customers. The company also noted that they have successfully contacted over 95% of homeowners who filed claims.
To facilitate claim assistance, State Farm has set up Catastrophe Customer Care sites at several locations in California. These include The Home Depot parking lot in Los Angeles, a former Volvo parking lot in Pasadena, and Santa Monica College's Bundy Campus Parking Lot C.
For those impacted by the wildfires, State Farm provides multiple avenues for filing claims: through local agents, via phone at 1-800-SF-CLAIM, or using their mobile app or website. Additionally, premium payment extensions are available for those experiencing financial difficulties.
The company's catastrophe response team is actively working on-site in California. This team includes a mobile workforce trained specifically for handling catastrophe claims. Local agents residing in affected neighborhoods join thousands of employees across centralized care centers nationwide who offer virtual support.
State Farm also issued warnings about potential fraud following disasters like these wildfires. They advise residents with property damage to contact them promptly for claims reporting and suggest caution when dealing with contractors or builders.
They recommend verifying references and licenses of contractors before signing any documents or making payments beyond temporary repairs until damages can be assessed by State Farm representatives.
For further information on protecting against contractor fraud or rental scams during this period of recovery, resources are available through State Farm's guidance materials online.