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Severe Weather Hits South Carolina

Hail Cited As Primary Cause of Loss

July 2, 2012 - Initial claims are being reported as South Carolinians survey damage, caused primarily by hail during the recent storms. The cities with the most damage reported so far include Spartanburg, Lexington, Columbia, and Greenville.

State Farm already has additional resources in the state inspecting damage, assisting agents, and taking care of policyholders.

“After insuring the safety of all residents, it is important for storm victims to inspect their property and make temporary repairs so that additional damage does not occur,” says State Farm spokesman Justin Tomczak. “Putting a tarp on damaged roofs ahead of the next rain event is crucial,” he says.

State Farm policyholders are asked to call their agent or 1-(800)-SF-CLAIM (1-800-732-5246) in order to report damage. They can also visit www.statefarm.com.

Helpful Information for Consumers:

• Work with your insurance agent or claims adjustor to fully understand the claims process.
• Choose a reputable roofing contractor. Look for a licensed or bonded roofer and request references. Not all jurisdictions require licensing of roofing contractors. Ask to see certificates of insurance to be sure both liability and workers compensation insurance coverage is carried, and are in force during the time the roofing work is being done.
• You may also contact your local Better Business Bureau or the National Roofing Contractors Association for assistance in locating a professional contractor in a specific geographic area.
• If anyone visits your home without an appointment and professes to represent your insurer, or to be there at the request of your insurer, ask for identification and contact your insurer to confirm before allowing access.

State Farm customers who have reported a loss can expect to be contacted by a claim representative who will review your policy and explain your coverage, outline the claim process and answer questions.

Contact

Justin Tomczak, State Farm Public Affairs, ( 770) 418-5562

About State Farm®

State Farm and its affiliates are the largest provider of car insurance in the U.S. and is a leading insurer in Canada. In addition to providing auto insurance quotes, their 17,800 agents and more than 65,000 employees serve 81 million policies and accounts - more than 79 million auto, home, life and health policies in the United States and Canada, and nearly 2 million bank accounts. Commercial auto insurance, along with coverage for renters, business owners, boats 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. 43 on the Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit http://www.statefarm.com or in Canada http://www.statefarm.ca.