Allstate : Offers Claims Tips After Severe Winter Weather Sweeps Across the Mid-Atlantic

Checking your home or car for damage after a winter storm

CHANTILLY, VA., January 22, 2016 - The dangerously cold temperatures, snow and ice that just swept across the Mid-Atlantic region can cause significant damage. Allstate customers whose homes or automobiles have been damaged by this winter weather can reach Allstate by calling 1-800-54-STORM (1-800-547-8676), contacting any Allstate Agent or visiting Allstate.com.

Allstate and the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety offer the following tips when people are checking their home or car for damage caused by a winter storm.

• If your home has sustained serious structural damage from snow collapse or falling tree limbs, be extremely cautious about entering the home. Debris may be hazardous and the structure could be unstable.
• Make temporary repairs to protect undamaged property. Save receipts for purchases on repairs until it is determined what expenses your insurance company may reimburse for as part of your homeowners policy.
• Avoid using sharp tools or ice picks to clear gutters or downspouts - they can potentially cause more damage to your property.
• Avoid injuring yourself, don't get on the roof, work on a ladder or work beneath a roof that has accumulated large amounts of snow. There is a danger of falling icicles or avalanching snow.
• Review your auto policy to determine whether you have coverage for falling objects or collisions. Contact your agent or insurance company with any questions.
• Watch inside your home for unexpected water leaks on walls or ceilings. Ice build-up in eaves and gutters following heavy snows can prevent drainage, causing water from melting roof snow to seep under shingles or tiles and into the home. If you suspect damage caused by 'ice damming' call your insurance company.
• Report possible claims to your insurance company promptly. Have policy numbers ready when you call.

Learn some additional Cold Weather Facts from Allstate by checking out the 'Winter Chill' and 'Blizzard Warning' sections of our catastrophe website.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer, protecting approximately 16 million households from life's uncertainties through auto, home, life and other insurance offered through its Allstate, Esurance, Encompass and Answer Financial brand names. Allstate is widely known through the slogan 'You're In Good Hands With Allstate.' The Allstate brand's network of small businesses offers auto, home, life and retirement products and services to customers in the United States and Canada. In the 20 years since Allstate became a fully independent public company, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate, its employees and agency owners have donated more than $405 million to support local communities.

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