Recovering From Disaster

Natural disaster recovery help from Safeco

Natural Disaster Preparedness

Recovering from Disaster

If the unthinkable happens, we understand that your most valuable assets are more than just items on a balance sheet, and we know that getting information is critical during a time of catastrophe. Use links below to get the info you need if you are affected by a natural disaster.

• Earthquake 
• Hail 
• Hurricane  
• Tornado 
• Wildfire 

Earthquake Insurance Claims

Solid Ground After an Earthquake

If you have Safeco earthquake insurance coverage, your policy typically covers the cost to repair common earthquake damage, including damage to your roof and walls, and most of your belongings. Damage to fences, patios, yard landscaping, and broken glassware or art objects may not be covered. You may have a higher deductible for earthquake damage than you have on your primary property policy. Call your local Safeco agentto add earthquake coverage or to review your policy details.

File a Claim Call Us. We’re Here for You. 800-332-3226 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Track a Claim Log in. Track the status of your claim anytime in your online account.

 

What to Do After an Earthquake

During an earthquake, buildings may become unstable, collapse or slide off their foundations. Aftershocks may cause additional damage to weakened buildings, power lines and bridges. It’s dangerous out there. If you’ve just been through an earthquake, please be careful. Take the appropriate precautions by following these tips:

1. Be Safe

Make Personal Safety Your First Priority

• Be prepared for aftershocks.
• Stay out of damaged buildings.
• Watch out for broken glass, sharp objects and exposed electrical wires.
• Listen to the local radio for up-to-date information.
• Stay out of your home if it is severely damaged.
• Don't go back inside your home until local authorities say it’s safe for you to do so.

Check for Damage

• Check gas, electric and sewage systems, and your chimney.
• If gas is leaking, turn it off at the main shut-off valve, leave the building immediately and call a professional for service.

Drive with Extreme Caution

• Watch out for downed power lines and debris.
• Be aware that bridges and roads may be weakened and damaged.

2. Call Us

800-332-3226

When it’s safe to do so, call us as soon as you can.

Be ready to provide the following information:

• Where is the damaged property?
• How extensive is the damage?
• Are temporary repairs needed?
• If the authorities were contacted, which department responded and what is the report number?
• Your current contact information and the best time to reach you?

Be prepared to provide as much detail as possible about damage caused by the earthquake. If possible, take photographs and videos of your damaged property and belongings. They can help expedite the claims process. Serial numbers, owner’s manuals and credit card statements can also be used to help document personal belongings that may have been damaged, lost or stolen.

We will do our best to contact you within 72 hours after you file your claim to discuss what happens next. If you experienced serious earthquake damage, we will make every effort to get to you as soon as possible.

3. Prevent Further Damage

Protect Your Home

It’s important to take some steps to protect yourself and your home from further damage after an earthquake.

• Clean up broken glass and remove debris.
• Board up broken windows and doors.
• Cover any roof damage with tarps or plywood.
• If possible, put damaged items in a safe, secure area where they can be inspected later.
• Save all receipts from any temporary repairs.

4. Repair Your Home

Please wait until a claims adjustor assesses the earthquake damage to your home before starting permanent repairs. However, contractors can be difficult to schedule after an earthquake, so we encourage you to schedule permanent repairs as soon as possible. Find a local, licensed, bonded and insured contractor through our freeSafeco Contractor Referral service.

Temporary Housing
While Your Home is Being Repaired or Rebuilt

If you are unable to live in your home while the damage is assessed and your home is being repaired or rebuilt, Safeco will help pay for additional living expenses, typically for up to 24 months. If repairs take longer than the period of time covered in your policy, you may be eligible for additional assistance from federal emergency programs.

Home ImprovementsTo Upgrade or Not to Upgrade

Safeco will replace damaged items and materials with the same type and quality of materials you had before the earthquake. For example, if you had a fiberglass roof, we will pay to repair or replace the damaged area with fiberglass, but we won’t pay to replace it with more expensive slate tile. If you decide to upgrade your house with better or more expensive materials, you’re welcome to do so, but you’ll need to pay the additional expense out of your own pocket.

Any time you make improvements to your property, be sure to talk to your local Safeco agent to find out if your coverage is still enough, and if you’re eligible for any discounts.

Download a printable versionof this information.

Hail Damage Claims

We’ll Be There When You Need Us

Your property insurance policy typically covers the cost to repair common hail damage to your roof, siding and personal belongings. You may have a higher deductible for wind and hail damage on your primary property policy than you do for other types of claims. Check your policy to see what’s covered and the deductible you’ve chosen. Your local Safeco agent can go over your policy details with you.

File a Claim Call Us. We’re Here for You. 800-332-3226 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Track a Claim Log in. Track the status of your claim anytime in your online account.

 

What to Do After a Hailstorm

During a hailstorm, windows may break and high winds can knock down trees and power lines. If the hail is big enough, it can cause shingle damage to the roof of your home. It can also damage the roof and hood of your car and maybe even crack your windshield. If you’ve just been through a hailstorm, be careful and follow these tips:

1. Be Safe

Make Personal Safety Your First Priority

• Watch out for broken glass, sharp objects and exposed electrical wires.
• Wear proper shoes and gloves.
• Don’t use rain-soaked electrical equipment.

Drive with Extreme Caution

• Watch out for downed trees, power lines and debris.

2. Call Us

800-332-3226

When it’s safe to do so, call us as soon as you can.

Be prepared to provide at least a general description of your hail damage.

Take photographs and videos of the hail damage if you can. It’s a great way to help us understand what happened and expedite the claims process.

3. Safeguard Your Home and Your Car

Prevent Further Damage
A hailstorm may be accompanied by heavy rain and wind. The longer your home is exposed to water, the more damage you’ll see to your roof, ceiling, walls and floors, as well as any personal belongings you have inside.

Hail Damage to Your House

• Clean up any broken glass and remove debris.
• Board up broken windows and doors.
• Cover roof damage with tarps or plywood.
• Move any wet items to a dry location.
• If possible, place any damaged items in a safe, secure area where they can be inspected later.
• Save all receipts from any temporary repairs.

Hail Damage to Your Car

• Cover any broken car windows with tarps or plastic sheeting.
• Move any wet items to a dry place.
• If possible, place any damaged items in a safe, secure area where they can be inspected at a later time.

4. Repair Your Home and Car

Get Your House Repaired

Please wait until a claims adjustor assesses the hail damage to your home before starting permanent repairs. We encourage you, however, to schedule permanent repairs as soon as possible. Find a local, licensed, bonded and insured contractor through our free Safeco Contractor Referral service.

Get Your Car Fixed

For hail damage to the body or your car, see Car Repairs and Damage Estimates.
For hail damage to your windshield or other car windows, see Car Repairs and Damage Estimates.

Home Improvements
To Upgrade or Not to Upgrade

Safeco will replace damaged items and materials with the same type and quality of materials you had before the hailstorm. For example, if you had a fiberglass roof, we will pay to repair or replace the damaged area with fiberglass, but we won’t pay to replace it with more expensive slate tile. If you decide to upgrade your house with better or more expensive materials, you’re welcome to do so, but you’ll need to pay the additional expense out of your own pocket.

Any time you make improvements to your property, be sure to talk to your local Safeco agent to find out if your coverage is still enough, and if you’re eligible for any discounts.

Download a printable versionof this information.

Hurricane Claims

We’ll Be There When You Need Us

High wind from a hurricane can damage your roof, siding and personal belongings. Your insurance policy typically covers the cost to repair damage caused by a hurricane. However, you may have a higher deductible for wind and hail damage on your primary property policy than you do for other types of claims. Check your policy to see what’s covered and the deductible you’ve chosen. If you’re uncertain, ask your local Safeco agent to review your policy and explain the details to you.

File a Claim Call Us. We’re Here for You. 800-332-3226 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Track a Claim Log in. Track the status of your claim anytime in your online account.

 

What to Do After a Hurricane

Severe winds from a hurricane can down electric lines, telephone poles and trees. Heavy rain can cause water damage and flooding. If a hurricane has been through your town or neighborhood, be careful. Take some precautions by following these tips:

1. Be Safe

Make Personal Safety Your First Priority

• Watch out for snakes and animals that may have taken refuge in your home.
• Don’t run a generator or barbecue grill indoors. Hazardous fumes and carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly.
• Don’t leave candles or a fireplace unattended, and keep the area well ventilated.
• Watch out for broken glass, sharp objects and exposed electrical wires.
• Listen to the local radio for up-to-date information.
• If you were evacuated, don’t return home until local authorities say it’s safe for you to do so.

Check for Damage

• Check gas, electric and sewage systems, and your chimney.
• If gas is leaking, turn it off at the main shut-off valve, leave the building immediately, and call a professional for service.
• Stay out of your home if it is severely damaged.

Drive with Extreme Caution

• Watch out for downed trees, power lines and debris.
• Be aware that bridges and roads may be weakened or washed out.
• Avoid flooded streets. They can hide downed electrical lines or underlying currents that can carry your car away.

2. Call Us

800-332-3226

When it’s safe to do so, call us as soon as you can.

Be ready to provide the following:

• Where is the damaged property?
• How extensive is the damage?
• Are temporary repairs needed?
• If the authorities were contacted, which department responded and what is the report number?
• What is your current contact information and the best time to reach you?

Be prepared to provide as much detail as possible about damage caused by the hurricane. If you’re able to take photographs and videos of the damage, they can be extremely helpful to the claims process. Owner’s manuals, serial numbers and credit card statements can also be used to help document personal belongings that may have been damaged, lost or stolen.

We will do our best to contact you within 72 hours after you file your claim to discuss what happens next. If you experienced serious hurricane damage, we will make every effort to get to you first.

3. Prevent Further Damage

Safeguard Your Home and Car

Water is a major cause of damage after hurricanes. The longer your house is exposed to water, the more damage you’ll see to your roof, ceiling, walls and floors, as well as any personal belongings inside. After the storm has passed, it’s important to dry out any water damaged inside your home. Open windows and doors to allow air to circulate and speed up the drying process.

Hurricane Damage to Your Home

• Clean up any broken glass and remove debris.
• Board up broken windows and doors.
• Cover roof damage with tarps or plywood.
• Move wet items to drier ground.
• If possible, place any damaged items in a safe, secure area where they can be inspected later.
• Save receipts for any temporary repair expenses.

Hurricane Damage to Your Car

• Cover broken car windows with tarps or plastic sheeting.
• Move any wet items to a dry place.
• If possible, place any damaged items in a safe, secure area where they can be inspected later.

4. Repair Your House and Car

Get Your House Repaired

Please wait until a claims adjustor assesses the hurricane damage to your home before starting permanent repairs. We encourage you, however, to schedule permanent repairs as soon as possible. Find a local, licensed, bonded and insured contractor through our free Safeco Contractor Referral service.

Get Your Car Fixed

If your car has been damaged in a hurricane, see Car Repairs and Damage Estimates for more information on how to get it fixed.

Temporary Housing
While Your Home is Being Repaired or Rebuilt

If you are unable to live in your home while the damage is assessed and your home is being repaired or rebuilt, Safeco will pay for additional living expenses, typically for up to 24 months. If repairs take longer than the period of time covered in your policy, you may be eligible for additional assistance from federal emergency programs.

Home Improvements
To Upgrade or Not to Upgrade

Safeco will replace damaged items and materials with the same type and quality of materials you had before the hurricane. For example, if you had a fiberglass roof, we will pay to repair or replace the damaged area with fiberglass, but we won’t pay to replace it with more expensive slate tile. If you decide to upgrade your house with better or more expensive materials, you’re welcome to do so, but you’ll need to pay the additional expense out of your own pocket.

Any time you make improvements to your property, be sure to talk to your local Safeco agent to find out if your coverage is still enough, and if you’re eligible for any discounts.

Download a printable versionof this information.

Flood Damage

Your Safeco home insurance policy does not cover flood damage. If you purchased a policy through the FEMA National Flood Insurance Program, contact your agent to file a claim for flood related damages.

Tornado Claims

We’ll Be There When You Need Us

High wind and hail from a tornado can damage your roof, siding and personal belongings. Your property insurance policy typically covers the cost to repair damage caused by a tornado. However, you may have a higher deductible for wind and hail damage on your primary property policy than you do for other types of claims. Check your policy to see what’s covered and the deductible you’ve chosen. Your local Safeco agent can go over your policy details with you.

File a Claim Call Us. We’re Here for You. 800-332-3226 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Track a Claim Log in. Track the status of your claim anytime in your online account.

 

What to Do After a Tornado

Severe thunderstorms, lightning and hail can accompany a tornado. High winds can down electric lines, telephone poles and trees. Buildings damaged by a tornado may be unstable and can potentially collapse. If a tornado touched down in your neighborhood and caused damage to your home or your car, follow these tips:

1. Be Safe

Make Personal Safety Your First Priority

• Stay out of damaged buildings.
• Watch out for broken glass, sharp objects and exposed electrical wires.
• Listen to the local radio for up-to-date information.
• If you were evacuated, don’t return until local authorities say it’s safe for you to do so.

Check for Damage

• Stay out of your home if it is severely damaged.
• Check gas, electric and sewage systems, and your chimney.
• If gas is leaking, turn it off at the main shut-off valve, leave the building immediately, and call a professional for service.

Drive with Extreme Caution

• Watch out for downed power lines and debris.
• Be aware that bridges and roads may be weakened and damaged.

2. Call Us

800-332-3226

When it’s safe to do so, call us as soon as you can.

Be ready to provide the following:

• Where is the damaged property?
• How extensive is the damage?
• Are temporary repairs needed?
• If the authorities were contacted, which department responded and what is the report number?
• Your current contact information and the best time to reach you

Be prepared to provide as much detail as possible about the damage. If possible take photographs and videos of damage caused by the tornado. They can help expedite the claims process. Owner’s manuals, serial numbers and credit card statements are useful to document personal belongings that may have been damaged or lost.

We will do our best to contact you within 72 hours after you file your claim to discuss what happens next. If you experienced serious tornado damage, we will make every effort to get to you first.

3. Prevent Further Damage

Safeguard Your Home and Your Car

Heavy rain is often a part of tornadoes and windstorms. The longer your home is exposed to water, the more damage you’ll see to your roof, ceiling, walls and floors, as well as any personal belongings you have inside. It’s important to take some steps to protect yourself and your property from any further damage after a tornado.

Tornado Damage to Your House

• Board up broken windows and doors.
• Cover roof damage with tarps or plywood and remove debris.
• Move any wet items to a dry area.
• If possible, place any damaged items in a safe, secure area where they can be inspected later.
• Save receipts for any temporary repair expenses.

Tornado Damage to Your Car

• Cover broken car windows with tarps or plastic sheeting.
• If possible, place any damaged items in a safe, secure area where they can be inspected later.

4. Repair Your Home and Car

Get Your House Repaired

Please wait until a claims adjustor assesses the tornado damage to your home before starting permanent repairs. We encourage you, however, to schedule permanent repairs as soon as possible. Find a local, licensed, bonded and insured contractor through our free Safeco Contractor Referral service.

Get Your Car Fixed

If your car has been damaged by a tornado, see Car Repairs and Damage Estimates for more information on how to get it fixed.

Temporary Housing
While Your Home is Being Repaired or Rebuilt

If you are unable to live in your home while the damage is assessed and your home is being repaired or rebuilt, Safeco will pay for additional living expenses, typically for up to 24 months. If repairs take longer than the period of time covered in your policy, you may be eligible for additional assistance from federal emergency programs.

Home Improvements
To Upgrade or Not to Upgrade

Safeco will replace damaged items and materials with the same type and quality of materials you had before the tornado. For example, if you had a fiberglass roof, we will pay to repair or replace the damaged area with fiberglass, but we won’t pay to replace it with more expensive slate tile. If you decide to upgrade your house with better or more expensive materials, you’re welcome to do so, but you’ll need to pay the additional expense out of your own pocket.

Any time you make improvements to your property, be sure to talk to your local Safeco agent to find out if your coverage is still enough, and if you’re eligible for any discounts.

Download the printable version of this information.

Wildfire Claims

You’re Not Alone. We’ll Take Care of You.

Your property insurance policy typically covers the cost to repair common wildfire damage to your home and personal belongings. Check your policy to see what’s covered and the deductible you’ve chosen. Ask your local Safeco agent to review your policy and explain the details to you.

File a Claim Call Us. We’re Here for You. 800-332-3226 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Track a Claim Log in. Track the status of your claim anytime in your online account.

 

What to Do After a Wildfire

If a wildfire has moved through your neighborhood and caused damage to your home or car, be careful and follow these tips:

1. Be Safe

Make Personal Safety Your First Priority

• Stay out of burned or smoke damaged buildings.
• Wear protective clothing including sturdy shoes, long pants, long sleeve shirt and gloves.
• Avoid breathing ashes and soot by covering your nose and mouth with a handkerchief or face mask.
• Watch out for broken glass, sharp objects and exposed electrical wires.
• Listen to the local radio for up-to-date information.
• If you were evacuated, don’t return home until local authorities say it’s safe for you to do so.

Check for Burning Embers

• Check your roof immediately for burning embers.
• Inspect your entire property for signs of burning embers.
• Put out any sparks or burning embers if you can do so safely.
• Call the fire department if necessary.

2. Call Us

800-332-3226

When it’s safe to do so, call us as soon as you can.

Be ready to provide the following:

• Where is the damaged property?
• How extensive is the damage??
• Are temporary repairs needed??
• If the authorities were contacted, which department responded and what is the report number??
• What is your current contact information and the best time to reach you??

Be prepared to provide as much detail as possible about the damage. If you’re able to take photographs and videos, they can help to explain overall property damage after a wildfire. Owner’s manuals, serial numbers and credit card statements are useful to document personal belongings that may have been damaged.

We will do our best to contact you within 72 hours after you file your claim to discuss what happens next. If you experienced serious wildfire damage, we will make every effort to get to you first.

3. Prevent Further Damage

Safeguard Your Home

This is a team effort. We’ll do our part. But we need you to help out by taking some steps to protect your home and your car from further damage after a wildfire.

• Do not attempt to clean fire or smoke damaged items. Cleaning without the proper equipment can make it worse.
• Board up broken windows and doors.
• Cover roof damage with tarps and remove debris.
• Save all receipts from any temporary repairs.
• If possible, place any damaged items in a safe, secure area where they can be inspected later.

4. Repair Your Home

Please wait until a claims adjustor assesses the smoke and fire damage to your home before starting permanent repairs. We encourage you, however, to schedule permanent repairs as soon as possible. Find a local, licensed, bonded and insured contractor through our free Safeco Contractor Referral service.

Temporary Housing
While Your Home is Being Repaired or Rebuilt

If you are unable to live in your home while the damage is assessed and your home is being repaired or rebuilt, Safeco will pay for additional living expenses, typically for up to 24 months. If repairs take longer than the period of time covered in your policy, you may be eligible for additional assistance from federal emergency programs.

Home Improvements
To Upgrade or Not to Upgrade

Safeco will replace damaged items and materials with the same type and quality of materials you had before the wildfire. For example, if you had vinyl siding, we will pay to repair or replace the damaged area with vinyl, but we won’t pay to replace it with more expensive limestone slate. If you decide to upgrade your house with better or more expensive materials, you’re welcome to do so, but you’ll need to pay the additional expense out of your own pocket.

Any time you make improvements to your property, be sure to talk to your local Safeco agent to find out if your coverage is still enough, and if you’re eligible for any discounts.

Download the printable versionof this information.

© 2014 Liberty Mutual Insurance, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, Massachusetts, 02116

Insurance is offered by Safeco Insurance Company of America and/or its affiliates, with their principal place of business at 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, Massachusetts, 02116. This website provides a simplified description of coverage. Nothing stated herein creates a contract. All statements made are subject to the provisions, exclusions, conditions and limitations of the applicable insurance policy. Please refer to actual policy forms for complete details regarding the coverage discussed. If the information in these materials conflicts with the policy language that it describes, the policy language prevails. Coverages and features not available in all states. Eligibility is subject to meeting applicable underwriting criteria. 36 USC 220506

Lewis Insurance
2525 S. Lamar Ste 11
Austin, TX
78704

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