From Staff Reports

The Post-Searchlight

State Farm, Georgia’s largest home and car insurer, is helping customers impacted by the first severe weather event of the new year in south Georgia. The company is advising storm victims to take some important initial steps as they begin the recovery process. State Farm customers who suffer damage from this storm should contact their State Farm agent to begin the claim process. Customers can also go to www.StateFarm.com to report their claim. “State Farm’s first priority is taking care of our customer’s needs as quickly as possible,” said company Spokesman Justin Tomczak.

First steps for those with damage to their property:

1. Make sure that your family and the structure of your home are safe.

2. Make reasonable temporary repairs to prevent further damage, when it is safe to do so. Save receipts if you purchase items such as tarps and plywood or other supplies to make repairs. If you have a covered loss, these repairs may be reimbursed.

3. Take pictures of your property and any damage that can be seen.

Next steps for those with damage to their property:

Work with your insurance agent or claims adjustor to fully understand the claims process.

Choose licensed and bonded contractors and request references.

You may contact your local Better Business Bureau 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.

Contact Public Affairs at (770) 362-3957 for additional information or local interview requests.