Feed

Property: Make Home Inventory, Insurance Awareness 2013 Priorities

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:57:00 -0500

Allstate Research Shows Americans Can Do More To Prepare In The New Year
This release contains: 1 Photo, 1 Related Document

Americans know that they and their homes could be impacted by a natural disaster, but they are not certain of their coverage and they have not recently reviewed their policies with an agent.

These are among the conclusions developed by research at Allstate Insurance, which encourages people to take proactive steps such as conducting a home inventory, maintaining records somewhere other than their homes, and reviewing their coverage with an agent.

"There are a lot of things that can happen to a home, but there are also a lot of things you can do proactively that would make things easier in the event of damage or loss," said Ron Stouffer, senior vice president at Allstate Insurance. "Getting through these incidents can be made considerably easier by taking the time to identify what you have and to learn what your policy covers. Allstate offers tools that help inventory homes and assess the worth of homes' contents, and taking advantage of those tools and reviewing your coverage can leave customers better informed and better prepared."

Among the details developed in the 2012 survey were the following:

43 percent of respondents were concerned about damage from a natural disaster, and 53 percent believed the country has faced more natural disasters than normal over the past several years.
22 percent were not certain or didn't know if they would be covered by their insurance policies in the event of a natural disaster.
Just 8 percent of respondents, if forced to evacuate their home, said they would take insurance documents or records with them.
30 percent of respondents have not read or reviewed their homeowners or renters policies in the last three years.

Allstate® Digital LockerTM, available online at DigitalLocker.com and as a mobile app for iPhone, iPod Touch, and Android, guides consumers through creating a detailed home inventory stored securely in a pocket and online. Upload photos, tag items, and organize by room, so all the information you need is right at your fingertips should you ever need to make a claim. Best of all, Digital Locker provides free and password-protected online storage, keeping your inventory free from the same perils that might have caused a claim.

Allstate also offers What's Your Stuff Worth? to help assess how much your belongings are worth and make real-world comparisons of costs to cover your things. Available in English at allstate.com and in Spanish at miallstate.com, the interactive tool walks consumers through typical rooms in a home and helps count the number of items and their estimated value. It's easy to see how everyday possessions - from lamps to clothing - add up quickly.

By making use of these tools and sitting down with an agent to review their coverage, customers can know what they have and know what is covered, giving them the peace of mind that they deserve.

About the Survey
This survey of Americans was conducted by phone May 16, 17 and 19, among a national representative sample of 1,000 American adults with homeowners or renters insurance. The margin of error for the national sample of residents is ±3.1 percent. The survey was conducted by FTI Consulting, Inc. (FTI) for Allstate.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer, serving approximately 16 million households through its Allstate, Encompass, Esurance and Answer Financial brand names and Allstate Financial business segment. Allstate branded insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services are offered through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives, as well as via www.allstate.com, www.allstate.com/financial and 1-800 Allstate®, and are widely known through the slogan "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®." As part of Allstate's commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $29 million in 2012 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

# # #

Contact:

Kevin Smith
847-402-5600
kevin.smith4@allstate.com

Property: Survey Finds Less than Half of Renters Have Renters Insurance

Wed, 11 Jul 2012 08:31:00 -0500

Renters cited fire damage as their number one concern
This release contains: 1 Related Document

As U.S. rental occupancy rates continue to rise, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, a new Allstate survey found that the number one concern for renters' is fire damage. The survey also revealed that 54 percent of renters say it would take three or more years to replace everything they lost if they didn't have insurance, yet only 45 percent of U.S renters have a renters insurance policy to protect their personal possessions and collectibles.

"It's important for renters to know that their landlord's insurance most likely will not cover the tenant's personal belongings. A landlord may have coverage that can help cover the cost of structural damage to the dwelling if the unexpected happens, but renters may be faced with significant replacement costs for their furniture, clothes, electronics and other belongings," said Keith Rutman, vice president of Allstate's Consumer Household unit. "The average renter owns about $30,000 worth of possessions, and a renters insurance policy can help cover losses due to common perils like theft, fire and smoke, vandalism and water damage."

A renter's insurance policy can help reimburse you for the cost to live in a hotel or another rental unit if you are temporarily forced out of your rental dwelling due to repairs. Renters can opt for additional liability protection and guest medical coverage in case someone gets injured.

Additional findings from the survey include:

Thirty-two percent of renters made two or more major household purchases in the past two years.
Only about a third of renters have completed a home inventory to catalog their possessions, compared to 44 percent of homeowners.
Twenty five percent of renters use a home security system compared to 44 percent of homeowners.
Eighteen percent of renters have a coin collection, 12 percent have a shoe collection, nine percent collect jewelry and eight percent collect art or paintings.

To help assess how much your belongings are worth and make real-world comparisons of costs to protect your stuff, renters can visit Allstate's What's Your Stuff Worth tool online to calculate the cost to replace clothing, electronics, kitchenware, furniture and more. Available in English at allstate.com and in Spanish at miallstate.com, the interactive tool walks consumers through typical rooms in a home and helps count the number of items and their estimated value.

Renters insurance from Allstate costs an average of $15 a month and renters can save money in total by bundling both Auto and Renters Insurance with Allstate. Renters interested in learning more about their renters insurance options should contact their local Allstate insurance agency, call 1-800-ALLSTATE or visit www.allstate.com/renters

About the Survey
This survey of Americans age 18 and over was conducted by phone December 3-6, 2011, among a nationally representative sample of 1,000 American adults. The margin of error for the national sample of residents is ±3.1 percent. The survey was conducted by FTI Consulting, Inc. (FTI) for Allstate.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. As part of Allstate's commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $28 million in 2011 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

# # #

Contact:

April Eaton
615-828-7372, Cell
847-402-5600, Media Hotline

Property: Help Protect your Home and Business during National Flood Safety Awareness Week

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:20:00 -0500

Safety and prevention tips to help take on the No. 1 natural disaster
This release contains: 1 Related Document

As part of National Flood Safety Awareness Week and in advance of the spring storm season, Allstate Insurance Company reminds Americans that now is the time to prepare for floods and consider their flood insurance needs. The average flood loss cost is $48,000 for homeowners and $85,000 on commercial property according to the National Flood Insurance Program. And, according to FEMA, higher than expected drought and fire conditions increase the risk of flash floods, especially as the spring storm season approaches.

"Unfortunately, floods can happen anywhere, even in low risk flood zones. But there are a few simple things property owners can do to help prepare and protect their home and business,"said Mark Green, senior vice president, Allstate. "Insurance coverage is critical. Some consumers mistakenly believe that flood damage is covered by most standard home, renters or commercial insurance policies. National Flood Safety Awareness Week is a reminder for everyone to talk to their local insurance agent before the spring storm season to get information about flood coverage."

National Flood Insurance Program policies can take up to 30 days to go into effect. Contact your local Allstate agency to talk about your flood insurance needs.

The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety offer these tips to prepare for floods.

Keep drains, gutters and downspouts clear of debris.
Prepare an evacuation plan with a kit that includes insurance documents, medications and critical items in case you need to leave your home for a few days.
Inspect sump pumps and drains regularly to ensure proper operation.
Have a licensed electrician raise electric components at least 12 inches above the expected flood levels for your area.
To prevent sewage backup, have a licensed plumber install an interior or exterior backflow valve. Make sure your yard's grading (slope) directs water away from the building.
Have the installation of your furnace, water heater and other permanent equipment modified so that they are elevated above the expected flood levels for your area.

The tips provided here are guidelines. Please use your best judgment when evaluating your flood preparation needs. For more ways to prepare, respond and recover from a flood, visit the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety website.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®"slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. As part of Allstate's commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $28 million in 2011 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

Contact:
Meghann Dowd
847-402-5600
On Twitter @AllstateNews

Property: On the Red Carpet, an Insurance Policy Is a Girls Best Friend

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:15:00 -0600

Allstate's tips to insure your jewelry like the stars
This release contains: 1 Related Document

It's awards season and America is on star watch for the glam couture and glitzy jewels worn by celebrities. While mainstream Americans may not walk the red carpet like a star, Allstate can help insure their jewels like one.

"Many people don't wear their jewelry because they are afraid they might lose it," said Keith Rutman, Vice President Consumer Household, Allstate Insurance Company. "Some pieces hold sentimental value that can never be replaced, but when our customers choose proper insurance coverage on jewels it gives them confidence and peace of mind that they are financially protected when the unexpected happens."

Most homeowners, renters or condo insurance policies limit coverage for personal items such as jewelry or furs to between $500 and $2,500, depending on the policy. If you have jewels like engagement rings, necklaces, bracelets or earrings that exceed that amount, you should consider additional coverage to help ensure you're protected. Allstate's Scheduled Personal Property (SPP) product covers jewelry items against perils like fire, theft and loss.

Allstate's tips to insure your jewelry

Have a detailed appraisal and make sure you keep your bill of sale. To keep your coverage current, have your jewelry appraised every five years.
Keep and maintain an inventory of your jewelry and individual valuables - this should be part of a broader home inventory to help you better understand everything you own.
Review your current insurance coverage to determine what protection you have.
Talk to your local Allstate agent to personalize your coverage to fit your needs.

The tips provided here are guidelines. Please use your best judgment when insuring personal property items.

The Allstate® Digital LockerTM, available online at DigitalLocker.com and as a mobile app for iPhone, iPod Touch and Android, helps consumers create a detailed home inventory that can be securely stored online.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Property: Allstate to Open Full-Service Agent Offices at Auto Dealerships Across the Country

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:05:00 -0600

Customers enjoy 'one-stop-shop' option for comprehensive, affordable insurance
This release contains: 1 Related Document

The next time a consumer buys a car from a dealer, they may be able to insure their new car, home and discuss their insurance protection needs with an Allstate agent before they drive off the lot. Allstate Insurance Company and Allstate Dealer Services announced today that auto dealers have the opportunity to open full-service Allstate agencies inside their dealerships.

"Allstate's dealer program seamlessly integrates the purchase and service of a vehicle with the opportunity to price your auto insurance with Allstate and work with a licensed insurance professional on all your coverage needs in a way that's never been done before," said Mark LaNeve, Allstate senior executive vice president and chief marketing officer. "Our agency owners are at the heart of Allstate's business and this program allows us to attract new customers at a time and location that's convenient for the customer."

Agency offices will be placed inside the dealership, typically on the showroom floor and operate during regular hours of the dealership. Licensed insurance professionals and a team of support staff employed by the agency owner will be onsite to help customers assess their insurance portfolio and help make sure they have the protection they want. The program combines the power of an Allstate Exclusive Agency, a Good Hands® Network Repair Facility and Allstate Dealer Service products with dealer F&I offerings and the ability to integrate Allstate Benefits into the dealer's employee benefits platform.

"Many times there is a short waiting time between when a customer purchases a car and when they drive off the lot. During this time, the customer can talk with a licensed insurance professional about their insurance needs not only for their new vehicle, but also their home and other protection needs," said Doug Herberger, president of Allstate Dealer Services. "With a continued focus on our partners, we are bringing Allstate's suite of products and services to the consumer and giving auto dealers an opportunity to deepen their relationship with customers."

Allstate and Allstate Dealer Services tested and modified this unique program during the past two years with Allstate agents in 11 dealerships around the country. The pilot revealed that the dealer program delivers the convenience of a one-stop-shop, the comprehensive and affordable coverage and the face-to-face interaction customers want.

"We have been extremely impressed with the Allstate program," states Randall Reed, president and CEO of World Class Automotive Group. His Houston, Texas dealership Plant 45 Ford is a participating member of the pilot program. "The relationship allows us to leverage our product offerings with the strong suite of F&I products and repair network of Allstate which has helped us to increase profitability. The expansion of our relationship with Allstate to include an on-site, full service Allstate insurance agency differentiates us from our competition. And our customers love it."

Dealers interested in learning more about this industry-leading program can visit Allstate Dealer Services at booth #772 at the NADA Conference in Las Vegas, February 3-6, 2012. Dealers can also contact Allstate Dealer Services directly at 904-992-6185 with any program questions.

# # #

Contact:

Meghann Dowd
(847) 402-5600
@AllstateNews on Twitter

Property: Protect Holiday Gifts with a Home Inventory and Insurance Smarts

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:45:00 -0600

Allstate Research Shows Americans Need to Do More to Protect Their Belongings
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Americans overwhelmingly value home protection, yet many lack the proper knowledge and documentation to protect their possessions, including newly acquired holiday gifts. This comes from new research by Allstate Insurance Company, which also found that most Americans consistently employ safety precautions - such as locking doors and windows (92 percent) and testing smoke detectors (78 percent) - but fall short of home inventories.

As US Census data shows an increasing household size, Allstate's research reveals one-third of Americans (33 percent) have "significantly" or "somewhat" increased household possessions over the past two years. Despite this, few are adding to their insurance protection with increased coverage (20 percent) or a lower deductible (8 percent). Forty-two percent of Americans have made at least one major purchase within the past two years, yet almost half of those (45 percent) never contacted their insurance company to discuss coverage for those purchases. Furthermore, fewer than two-in-three (62 percent) Americans who say they have valuable items in their homes also said they have insurance coverage for them.

Goodies in the Home
Although most Americans say they have valuables and collections in their homes, many aren't familiar with what they are worth and aren't financially equipped to replace their belongings if stolen or damaged.

The vast majority of Americans acknowledge having valuables in their homes, including electronics (76 percent), jewelry (46 percent), collections (33 percent), antiques (27 percent) and artwork (26 percent).
- One in three Americans maintain a collection, citing such collectibles as coins, art, sports memorabilia, jewelry, shoes, guns, stamps, music and comic books.
Nearly one in four Americans (23 percent) admits not knowing how much their belongings are worth.
Thirty five percent are "not very" or "not at all" confident in their ability to recall every replaceable item in their home from memory.
One-in-five Americans (21%) have not kept any receipts for major household items, while just over half (52%) report keeping receipts for "all" or "most" significant purchases.
Nearly four-in-five Americans (79 percent) say it would take longer than a year - some even more than 10 years - to replace all their possessions without insurance.
- Fifteen percent say they would never be able to replace all their belongings without insurance.

Allstate offers What's Your Stuff Worth? to help assess how much your belongings are worth and make real-world comparisons of costs to cover your things. Available in English at allstate.com and in Spanish at miallstate.com, the interactive tool walks consumers through typical rooms in a home and helps count the number of items and their estimated value. It's easy to see how everyday possessions - from lamps to clothing - add up quickly.

Home Inventories: Are you the 39 percent?
Americans clearly see value in a catalog of their belongings - also known as a home inventory - citing benefits such as item replacement after a loss, tracking belongings, proof of ownership, identifying stolen or lost items and easing the recovery process. Nearly nine-in-10 Americans believe a home inventory is "very" or "somewhat" important in ensuring their belongings are protected, but only 39 percent of Americans have ever made one.

Young Americans aged 18 to 29 and those with household incomes under $50,000 are the least likely to have a home inventory, with 17 percent and 28 percent respectively having created one.
While 85 percent of those with home inventories characterize their lists as "very" or "somewhat" detailed, fewer than one in three (32 percent) include appraisals and under half (48 percent) include purchase dates and locations. Only about two-thirds include receipts, product descriptions and pictures (67 percent, 65 percent and 64 percent, respectively) and 57 percent include purchase prices.
Most home inventory keepers store them in a safe location, such as a fire-proof or water-proof safe (34 percent), outside their home (27 percent), or electronically (eight percent). However, some may be keeping it in places susceptible to the same perils as their home. 13 percent store it at home but not in a safe, 7 percent say it's on their computer but not online, and 11 percent don't know where it's stored.
For those who have a home inventory, fewer than half (43 percent) report updating "every time" or "most of the time" after new purchases, and one-third (34 percent) haven't ever discussed their inventory with their insurance company.
Of the majority of Americans without home inventories, more than half (51 percent) say it's because they've never thought to conduct one, 18 percent say they don't have enough valuables to need one, 10 percent think it would be too complicated, nine percent don't think it helpful and six percent don't know where to start.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Contact:
Laura Strykowski
(847) 402-5600
Laura.Strykowski@allstate.com

Property: Protect What's Left After Spring Cleaning: Allstate Offers Tips for Creating a Home Inventory

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 04:19:56 -0500

This release contains: 2 Photos, 1 Related Document

Getting organized is one of the most common New Year's resolutions and, for those getting a late start, spring cleaning is a great opportunity for redemption. For a first step that pays dividends down the road, Allstate recommends creating a home inventory. It's one of the most important things you can do to get organized and, in addition to having proper homeowners' or renters' insurance coverage, protect your possessions.

In the blink of an eye, your home and all of your belongings could disappear. Do you know what you have? Could you list and describe your possessions so they could be replaced?

"Disaster or theft can strike at any time," said Paul Tracey, director for Allstate. "An accurate and up-to-date home inventory can help make the recovery process easier on you and your family."

Tools, such as the Allstate® Digital LockerTM application for iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad, can help you check off each of these recommended steps in the home inventory process:

Categorize your list. Organize your catalog of personal property by room, category or in item lists to make your list more manageable and help make sure your list is inclusive of all your important items.
Include photos and videos of your items. Whenever possible, make sure your home inventory list includes photographs or video of your belongings. Take periodic videos of each room in your house, and focus on individual items in each room. Take additional photos or video of smaller items like jewelry, silver and related valuables or keepsakes.
Attribute notes, cost and quantity to each item. It's helpful if you can include make, model, serial numbers, receipts, cost, and date of purchase for all items in your home inventory.
Secure your information. Whether you store your information on paper or electronically, make sure your information is locked away with a key or password. You wouldn't want a complete list of valuable items in your home to fall into the wrong hands.
Store your home inventory in a smart place. Wherever you store your home inventory list, it's best that the location is far enough away from your home that it won't be lost in the same event that may destroy your house, yet close enough that it's easily accessible in a time of need. Consider storing in a safe deposit box, your workplace or with a friend or relative.
Include your insurance and agency information for quick reference. Particularly after experiencing a loss, you may have a hard time finding the information you need about your insurance policy and to contact your agency as quickly as you'd like. Including this with your list will help to make sure you have everything you need, when you need it.
Update after a significant purchase or gift. While you should be updating your home inventory periodically, make a special effort to do so after any major purchase, holidays or birthdays.

Property: Don't Insure Everything, Just the Things You Might Mind Losing

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 09:50:56 -0500

Many young adults - and the parents still supporting them - are putting belongings at risk when they can least afford to replace them
This release contains: 1 Related Document

A new national survey commissioned by Allstate Insurance reveals college-aged adults are acquiring things at a prodigious pace. However, protecting those things is of little concern - to themselves or the parents who support them.

In the study, almost half of respondents (48 percent) reported belongings worth more than $10,000 and 87 percent reported they could only afford to replace, at best, some of their things. Despite this, nearly two-thirds (63 percent) had no insurance protection and 64 percent said it wasn't likely they would purchase renters insurance anytime soon.

In perhaps the best illustration of misplaced priorities, almost one third of respondents (29 percent) reported spending $100-250 on clothes during any given month, which is roughly what insurance costs for an entire year.

"The data suggests to me that people aren't thinking past the purchase" said Julie Parsons, vice president of Emerging Businesses and Consumer Household, Allstate Insurance Company. "It's a shame because renters insurance is one of the smartest investments people in this situation can make and so few take advantage of it."

A Bureau of Justice Statistics survey of households shows renters are 50 percent more likely to be burglarized than homeowners. This is yet another sobering reminder of how precarious the situation is for so many Americans opting to go without renters coverage.

The need for education is clear: almost one third of respondents (32 percent) believed renters insurance to be as much as 15 times higher than the actual national average of $16 per month. Overall, 78 percent of respondents had misperceptions about the true cost of renters insurance.

To underscore how education helps to address this current trend, eight out of 10 of those surveyed without renters insurance at the outset, expressed interest in buying insurance once they learned basic information about the coverage.

About the Survey
The national survey is comprised of 1078 weighted interviews and a 201 student oversample. Interviews were collected between July 25 and August 6, 2009 using internet and cell phone samples. All participants are young adults who rent their home or apartment and are between the ages of 18 and 30. Student oversamples were collected in California, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas. All surveys were conducted by Squier Knapp Dunn and Beck Research for Allstate.

Contact: Raleigh Floyd
(847) 402-5600

Property: With Renters on the Rise, Americans Face Increasing Risk for Property Loss

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 17:20:00 -0500

With foreclosures rising and more homeowners becoming renters, Allstate survey points to need for better personal property protection, home inventory check lists and education
This release contains: 1 Related Document

As the number of Americans renting homes increases with the current housing foreclosure crisis, a new survey released today by Allstate finds most renters are inadequately prepared to protect their belongings.

While homeowners coverage is required as a part of most mortgages, renters face no such insurance requirement. As a result, just 40 percent of survey respondents said they have renters insurance, meaning that over 50 million of the approximately 87 million Americans living in rental housing do not have insurance to cover their belongings in case of loss.

The share of rental households jumped by about 1 million in 2007 and this group is likely to expand further if foreclosure trends continue, according to Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies. Now more than ever, it is critical for renters to be prepared to protect their possessions in case of a loss.

Allstate's survey also found more than two-thirds of renters say they have not done a home inventory check list, or tried to estimate the cost of replacing everything in their home in the past year or two. Fewer than one in five renters say they have taken photographs or videotaped their possessions during the past two years to help document what they own.

The survey found most renters underestimate the threat theft poses to their belongings. Nearly half (49 percent) of renters surveyed estimated the number of annual burglaries and other property crimes in the U.S. at less than 100,000, while the actual number of burglaries alone is 20 times that. According to the FBI's most recent Uniform Crime Report, there were more than 2 million burglaries in the U.S. in 2006. Only one in 20 renters guessed the number was in this range.

"This survey highlights the importance of educating American families who rent about the risks facing their possessions," said Jeff Deigl, assistant vice president of specialty product lines for Allstate. "It's a wake-up call to increase awareness of the available options to manage these risks."

The survey found that the biggest reasons renters don't purchase renters insurance are: 1) they haven't made the time to look into it (43 percent) or 2) they believe the coverage is too expensive (33 percent). Various other reasons such as not owning enough valuables to justify having the insurance and believing landlords are responsible for insuring renter's personal property were given by 23 percent and 10 percent of respondents, respectively.

Misperceptions about the price of renters insurance were particularly telling. Three out of ten respondents thought renters insurance cost at least three times as much as its actual price tag, an average of $15 per month. Another 20 percent had no idea how much it cost. When polled, six out of ten renters thought renters insurance was worthwhile, even at an average of $20 per month.

Additional Survey Stats

A majority of renters (54 percent) say that if they could protect only one of several types of possessions from burglary or fire, they would choose personal items such as photographs or letters. Sixty-eight percent of women said they would save photos and letters compared to 40 percent of men.
Three in ten respondents would save a personal computer, while almost one in ten would save other personal electronic devices such as an MP3 player or digital camera.
A mere 15 percent of respondents have a security or alarm system in their home and only 67 percent lock their windows when they leave. Fifty-four percent of those surveyed own a fire extinguisher.
Today's survey release kicks off a comprehensive effort by Allstate to encourage U.S. renters to better prepare for personal property losses.

Allstate has easy to use tools and valuable resources readily accessible, including home inventory check lists to keep track of all personal possessions as well as detailed information on property coverage options. Go to www.allstate.com/renters-insurance to download a home inventory checklist and for more important information. The home inventory list can also be accessed directly here http://www.knowyourstuff.org/allstate/.

The national survey was conducted online from May to June 2008 with a sample of 1,000 renters nationwide. Additional surveys were conducted online during this period with 500 renters from each of the following 13 states: California; Colorado; Connecticut; Florida; Georgia; Illinois; New Jersey; Ohio; Oklahoma; Tennessee; Texas; Virginia; and Washington. In New York State, 200 renters were surveyed in each of four upstate areas: Albany; Buffalo; Rochester; and Syracuse. All surveys were conducted by Opinion Research Corp. for Allstate.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,900 exclusive agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. Encompass® and Deerbrook® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

Contact:
Raleigh Floyd
847-402-7891

Property: Allstate Comments on California Homeowners Rate Ruling

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 21:32:56 -0500

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate Senior Corporate Relations Manager Peter DeMarco today issued the following statement regarding the California Department of Insurance's order to lower Allstate's homeowners rates in California by 28.5%:

"While we are disappointed in this order, we respect the authority of the Department and will comply. We are reviewing the order in detail and communicating with the Department about the process for adjusting the rates of our 850,000 homeowners policyholders in the state. Californians can continue to rely on more than 1,300 Allstate agents to help them with insurance and retirement needs."

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,900 exclusive agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. Encompass® and Deerbrook® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

Contact:
Peter DeMarco
Allstate Media Relations
(916) 859-8610

Property: Presidential Politics & Homeowner Insurance: Allstate Floridian Begins Consumer Education Campaign On Homeowners Insurance

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 01:09:00 -0600

As presidential candidates acknowledge need for a national catastrophe fund, Allstate Floridian focuses on solutions for Florida homeowner''s insurance crisis.

In a series of print advertisements in newspapers across Florida beginning tomorrow, Allstate Floridian Insurance Company is launching a major campaign aimed at "educating the public about how Florida''s hurricane problem affects the property insurance market, what''s been done about it and, most importantly, what real, actionable steps can be taken to help consumers," said Phil Lawson, President, Allstate Floridian. "There is so much misunderstanding out there," continued Lawson, "we felt an obligation to refocus the debate back onto the facts."

Several major candidates for president have already embraced the need for a national catastrophe fund to help Florida and other states better deal with catastrophes. "Leaders here in Florida and national leaders across the country are increasingly coming to the conclusion that Florida''s homeowner insurance crisis simply can''t be ignored," said Lawson. "Consumers want a real solution and increasingly national leaders recognize it requires leadership from all levels of government and the industry." Allstate Floridian''s consumer education campaign begins Tuesday with a full-page advertisement that "tells the story of how we got here and what it takes to move on," said Lawson. Among the key points in the advertisement:

The challenges ahead. Scientists agree that Florida is at an increased risk for large-scale storms.
The stakes are real. According to the Insurance Information Institute, a large-scale, Category 5 storm that hit Miami could cost over $50 billion. Such a large scale financial challenge could overwhelm even the statecreated homeowner insurance carrier, now the largest writer in the state.
The financial facts can not be ignored. Allstate Floridian lost nearly $1 billion in the past four years providing homeowner insurance in Florida, yet some are publicly demanding we lower rates without any fundamental changes to the market - an unworkable solution.
A real solution includes a comprehensive national catastrophe plan, adequately funding Citizens Property Insurance Corporation reserves and the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund to handle the impact of a major storm, allowing insurance companies to charge appropriate premiums for those in high risk areas, and increasing competition by allowing a fair rate of return for insurance companies.

"There are solutions. They require a clear eyed view of why Florida faces these challenges and what needs to be done. No amount of wishful thinking will change weather patterns. The responsible step is to plan now and be ready for the challenges ahead. It''s good that national leaders are beginning to see the wisdom of this. Now it''s time to make it a reality," Lawson concluded.

Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company are independent subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation and are the primary providers of personal lines property insurance in Florida for the Allstate group. Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company sell homeowners, condominium owners, renters and mobile home insurance protection through nearly 900 agencies in the state of Florida. Property insurance policies sold by Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company are not underwritten or reinsured by any other company in the Allstate group.

Contact: Adam Shores
727.573.6953

Property: Allstate Comments on California Homeowners Insurance Rates

Wed, 23 May 2007 18:07:56 -0500

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Responding to statements made today by California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner, Allstate said the following:

"The facts are that Allstate's California homeowners insurance rates currently in place were reviewed and approved by the California Department of Insurance in 2003, and our policies are competitively priced," said Rich Halberg, Allstate spokesman for the company's California Region. "In fact, more than 50,000 Californians chose Allstate for new homeowners insurance policies in 2006, attracted by the value and competitive price of our policies.

"Allstate is seeking a rate increase for homeowners insurance in California - the first in almost four years - so that the company will be in a strong position to help meet the needs of policyholders in California over the long term. This rate increase would reflect the true costs of providing homeowners insurance in the state, including the cost of potential assessments from the California Earthquake Authority and the costs of reinsurance contracts, which help to provide added protection by diversifying catastrophe risk.

"We look forward to our hearing before the department so that we can present the facts about our rates and California's catastrophe risk in an impartial and fair proceeding," concluded Halberg.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,800 exclusive agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

Contact:
Rich Halberg
(916) 859-8615 office
(916) 802-4981 cell

Property: Allstate Announces Property Insurance New Business Change in California; Program Created to Help Consumers Seeking New Policies

Thu, 10 May 2007 07:05:00 -0500

Existing Allstate Property Customers Not Affected
This release contains: 1 Related Document

While continuing to provide coverage to existing property insurance customers in the state, Allstate announced today that as of July 1, 2007, the company will stop offering new Allstate homeowners and landlord package polices (LPP) in California.

"Allstate is taking responsible action now so that the company will continue to be in a strong position to help protect customers in California and across the country," said Robert H. Barge, III, field vice president for Allstate in California. "This new strategy helps protect our existing customers and provides an alternative to California consumers looking for new property insurance policies."

Today's announcement does not affect existing Allstate property insurance customers in California. Allstate will continue to renew the homeowners and LPP policies of existing insurance customers that continue to own the property currently insured by Allstate, subject to applicable Allstate underwriting guidelines.

To help Californians seeking new property insurance policies, a program has been developed in California through which Allstate's more than 1,200 California agencies may be able to assist customers looking for new property policies in obtaining coverage from Pacific Specialty Insurance Company, a third-party insurance company not affiliated with Allstate.

"Allstate agents in California will continue to offer a broad range of high-quality Allstate insurance products to help meet customer needs, including auto, renters, life and other types of insurance," Barge continued. "And, through the program that has been created, Californians will continue to enjoy the convenience of working with their local Allstate agency to help them obtain new property insurance policies."

Allstate's announcement is the latest in a series of actions the company has taken to responsibly manage the risk associated with offering property insurance in catastrophe-prone California.

Over the past two years, Allstate introduced new business requirements designed to reduce risk and make customers' homes safer by:
- Increasing the amount of "defensible space" required around homes in wildfire areas to a minimum of 200 feet.
- Requiring automatic gas shutoff valves on homes near known, active earthquake faults, to reduce the risk of a fire following an earthquake.
The company purchased reinsurance contracts to help spread the financial risk posed by potential catastrophes in California.
In September 2006, Allstate filed a 12% increase homeowners insurance rating plan now pending with the California Department of Insurance to help Allstate better prepare for natural disasters in California.
The Allstate Foundation donated more than $250,000 over the past two years to non-profit organizations in California dedicated to reducing the threat of wildfires and helping Californians prepare for disasters.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,800 exclusive agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rich Halberg, (916) 859-8615

Property: Allstate Files for New Homeowners Rates in California to Better Prepare for Catastrophes

Fri, 01 Sep 2006 02:00:56 -0500

Allstate Insurance Company filed today with the California Department of Insurance (CDI) a new rating plan for homeowners insurance designed to preserve the company's ability to write homeowners insurance in California given the state's vulnerability to natural disasters.

If approved by the CDI, Allstate's new rating plan will more accurately reflect the capital required to write California homeowners insurance and increase rates by an average of 12.2%, or an estimated $96 million in annual premium, the company's first rate increase in more than three years.

"Our top priority is to protect our policyholders by ensuring we have the resources to be there for the hundreds of thousands of Californians who look to us for homeowners insurance protection," said Robert H. Barge, III, field vice president for Allstate's California region. "If approved, this rate filing will put Allstate in an improved position to deal with the volatility of natural catastrophes in the California homeowners insurance market."

Since Allstate's California homeowners rates were last approved by the CDI in 2003, a number of factors have combined to significantly increase costs and exposure to risk in California:

Based on scientific study and analysis, professional catastrophe risk modeling firms have revised their models to reflect higher insured losses as recent disasters have revealed that those models previously underestimated post-catastrophe rebuilding expenses especially in large metropolitan areas.
Independent rating agencies have increased the capital requirements for property and casualty insurers to retain acceptable financial strength ratings.
The cost of catastrophe reinsurance has increased significantly. Allstate spent nearly $70 million on reinsurance in California in 2006, a cost that is not reflected in current rates.
The cost of rebuilding homes increased dramatically in the state, increasing property insurance exposure.
Allstate remains accountable for as much as $800 million in potential earthquake claims through the California Earthquake Authority's industry assessments. The cost of ensuring the availability of that capital is not reflected in Allstate's current rates.
The recent trend of drier, warmer summers leaves California increasingly susceptible to the threat of more frequent and intense wildfires.

"We have been fortunate that California was spared any major catastrophes in 2004 and 2005, but we only need to look back one more year to the Southern California Firestorm of 2003, which cost Allstate approximately $300 million, to be reminded of how tragic and costly catastrophes can be in California," said Barge. "It would be a poor gamble to continue to hope for good fortune to protect the state from catastrophes."

In April of this year, independent rating agency A.M. Best Company, Inc. published a paper detailing their revised methodology for evaluating insurers' financial strength and ability to meet obligations to policyholders. Calling catastrophic loss "the No. 1 threat to the financial strength and credit quality of property and casualty insurers," Best increased capital requirements to maintain the same rating.

In June, the CDI initiated a process to review homeowners insurance rates in California, including those of Allstate. As part of that process, the CDI has indicated it is looking to determine whether it should order a reduction in homeowners rates. Allstate and the CDI have agreed to use a homeowners rate filing to examine Allstate's homeowners rates. The outcome of the rate filing and the review process remains uncertain.

"We appreciate the opportunity to present Allstate's view on how to determine appropriate homeowners insurance rates including how to factor in new capital reserve requirements from independent rating agencies and new data from modeling firms showing increased risk for catastrophic loss," Barge said.

Today's rate filing comes at a time when The Allstate Corporation has been reviewing its exposure for catastrophic property losses in high risk states nationwide. Allstate has already announced actions in multiple states designed to help ensure its ability to be there for the millions of Americans who look to it for home, auto and life insurance protection.

Now celebrating the 75th anniversary of the founding of Allstate Insurance Company, The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,100 exclusive agencies and financial professionals in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rich Halberg, (916) 859-8615

Property: Allstate Floridian Welcomes New Insurer to Florida Market

Fri, 12 May 2006 02:00:56 -0500

Allstate Floridian announced today it has reached an agreement with Royal Palm Insurance Company, a new property insurer in the state, to offer Allstate Floridian customers and Florida consumers property insurance coverage. Starting in November 2006, Royal Palm will provide property insurance options through the more than 900 Allstate agencies across Florida. Under the agreement, which is subject to closing conditions, the vast majority of the 120,000 Allstate Floridian policyholders who will not be offered renewal by Allstate Floridian as their current policies expire will be offered homeowners coverage from Royal Palm Insurance.

"We welcome Royal Palm to Florida," said Phil Lawson, president of Allstate Floridian. "This is the nation's most challenging property insurance market, and helping to bring a new company to the state will improve insurance availability in many communities. In the wake of two devastating hurricane seasons, Allstate Floridian is taking steps to help better protect its customers in the future from the threat of Katrina like storms."

"We have been working hard to help arrange another option for affected customers to obtain property coverage. We understand that our customers' relationship with their Allstate agent is a large part of the reason they do business with us. Although Royal Palm is not an Allstate affiliate, customers who accept Royal Palm's offer will be able to continue to work with their Allstate agency and may contact that agency for more information on their specific homeowner's policy. We are pleased that our agents will have new solutions for the state and our customers."

Today's announcement is the continuation of a highly successful effort launched last year to make homeowners insurance more available in Florida. Allstate agents have been able to write new property insurance with up to 12 other companies besides Allstate Floridian - giving consumers more choices. Under this strategy, these agents are currently helping almost twice as many homeowners find policies in the private market today than they were prior to the 2004 hurricanes. Allstate Floridian will continue to pursue other actions such as another transaction of a similar size or nature with other alternative carriers, as well as additional reinsurance and underwriting actions. In addition, following the 2006 hurricane season, Allstate Floridian intends to no longer renew its smaller property lines - its landlord package policies, residential fire policies, and manufactured home policies. The company insures only about four percent of the manufactured home market in Florida.

"Royal Palm is proud to be working with one of the strongest insurance agency forces in the state," said Royal Palm Insurance Company President and former Florida State Senator Locke Burt. "We are committed to providing customers with a strong level of protection and confidence. Royal Palm brings significant capital and reinsurance to the Florida market, and is looking to grow its customer base across the state."

"The Allstate group of companies remains committed to giving our valued customers in Florida access to products that help them meet their auto and financial services needs," Lawson said. "Allstate Floridian remains one of the largest insurers of private property in the state, and we are focusing our resources to help ensure that as many of our homeowners customers as possible remain protected. Allstate agencies will be available to help affected customers obtain coverage from another carrier."

The Allstate Corporation is also working with others to advance partnerships that provide long-term solutions to better prepare and protect Americans from catastrophe.

"We all have a role to play in this effort," Lawson said. "Under legislation passed last week in Florida, homeowners will be provided with tools to better prepare their properties to withstand hurricanes. And we are encouraged that policymakers across the country are beginning to recognize that this is not just an insurance issue. Catastrophe risk presents a homeland security and national economic challenge. We believe that comprehensive, integrated reform is needed to create a stronger public-private partnership to help prepare and protect consumers in Florida and across the country."

Allstate supports the leadership of policymakers that are calling for the creation of a comprehensive national catastrophe plan. The company also endorses the campaign to better prepare and protect America being led by ProtectingAmerica.org, a coalition working to raise awareness, educate the public and policymakers, and offer long-term solutions that will better prepare and protect America from major catastrophes in a sensible, cost effective fashion.

Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company are separately capitalized subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation and are the primary providers of personal lines residential property insurance in Florida for the Allstate group, through more than 900 agencies in the state of Florida. Property insurance policies sold by Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company are not underwritten or reinsured by any other company in the Allstate group.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Mike Siemienas, (847) 402-5600

Property: Your Home Is Thinking Spring…Are You?

Tue, 15 Mar 2005 01:01:00 -0600

Allstate Has Five Ideas For Spring Cleaning

Did you know the weight of heavy winter snows could change the slope of your front lawn, or that the air conditioner outside your home could cause water damage inside your house? Last year, Allstate policyholders filed more than 910,000 insurance claims for damage to their homes. Of these, more than 430,000 claims were caused by daily problems like broken water pipes, cracked washing machine hoses, and leaky roofs -- showing it doesn't take a fire or disaster to hurt your home.

"Winter weather can be extremely hard on a house. Spring-cleaning is an excellent opportunity to identify and correct minor, seasonal problems that could end up causing more significant damage, frustration, and possibly an insurance claim down the road," said Dave Mueller, Homeowners' Claims Director for Allstate Insurance Company.

Five easy ideas for spring-cleaning…

Check roofs and windows…

Visually inspect roof valleys, chimneys, skylights, and vent flashings.

Temperature changes from the hot summer to the cold winter can cause expansion and contraction, which may lead to cracking in some roof cement and window caulking materials, creating potentially damaging water leaks. All exterior caulking maintenance should also be performed during spring-cleaning.

Walk your yard…

Check the grading of your property to ensure it drains away from your home's foundation.

Wet and snowy winter weather can cause soil to settle in plant and flowerbed areas, which are usually adjacent to your home's foundation wall. This can cause water to build up next to the foundation and possibly get into your home. If needed, re-fill or re-grade depressed areas. Basement window wells should also be cleaned and covers considered -- avoiding rainwater build-up and unnecessary leakage in these areas.

Inspect gutters…

Gutters should be inspected for debris and proper mounting.

The expansion and weight of ice and snow from winter storms can loosen gutters from their mounting points causing a change in pitch and water flow. Also, make sure downspouts are extended far enough to carry water away from the foundation wall of your house.

Condition your air conditioner…

Check the drainage pan and lines.

The drainage pan and drain line should be free of dust and debris that may accumulate over the winter. An obstructed pan and line could lead to an overflow and water damage.

Test pumps…

If you have a sump-pump, test it to make sure it is working properly.

Test the motor, float switch, and check valve to see if they are working properly and water is draining from the chamber. A back-up pump, or system, may be a consideration if you live in an area prone to groundwater problems.

Some work, particularly on roofs, may require professional services. Some homeowners may not be comfortable inspecting or working on their roof or on ladders. If so, check references with your local better business bureau, homebuilders association, or contractors association to help ensure you're hiring a qualified, reputable repair professional to work on your home.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in more than 16 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through more than 13,600 exclusive agencies and financial specialists in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, annuity, retirement, banking and investment products through distribution channels that include Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Bill Mellander, (847) 402-5600

Property: Insure Your Jewels Sparkle Like the Stars': A Red Carpet Report From Allstate Insurance

Mon, 28 Feb 2005 01:00:00 -0600

As stars crossed the Red Carpet on Sunday, they were adorned with some of the most expensive and exquisite jewels in the world. One leading actress donned $273,000 worth of jewels and another flashed diamonds worth $463,000.

Although most of us will never walk the Red Carpet in such expensive jewelry, we still have our own prized possessions - and according to Allstate Insurance Company many Americans are not properly insured when it comes to those assets. The nation's second largest home and auto insurer says items like jewelry, furs and watches often require additional coverage to be added on your standard insurance, a fact many Americans ignore or find out too late, after their valuables have been lost or stolen.

"According to the FBI, each year more than $1 billion worth of jewelry disappears, but there are affordable options to help protect your valuables," said Jeff Moree, Director of Specialty Products for Allstate Insurance Company. "The FBI says jewelry accounts for more than 70 percent of all stolen property and the majority of Americans are not adequately insured."

Pricey Protection…

For the stars, the price tag to insure their "bling-bling" can be steep. According to Allstate, the $273,000 worth of sparkles seen Sunday on one celebrity could cost as much as $14,851 each year to insure. The $463,000 in rocks sported by another star could also demand prime premium - with an estimated annual insurance cost of $25,187. For the rest of us, the price for protection is much more affordable.

Are You Covered…

Most homeowners, renters, or condo insurance policies limit coverage for personal items such as jewelry or furs to between $500 and $2,500, depending on the policy. If you have jewels, even common items like engagement and wedding rings that exceed that amount, Allstate says you may need additional coverage to help ensure you're protected.

More Affordable For Most…

What could it cost to insure valuables from the super-sleek to the everyday? The following chart gives estimates of what it could cost to insure your jewelry around the country.

Jewelry Value	Atlanta	Chicago	Denver	Los Angeles	New York
$2,000,000	$44,000	$38,000	$34,000	$108,800	$59,000
$50,000	$1,100	$950	$850	$2,720	$1,475
$10,000	$220	$190	$170	$544	$267
$5,000	$110	$95	$85	$272	$106

Four Easy Steps To Help Cover Your Jewelry…

Understand your insurance policy -- review existing coverage to determine what protection you have.
Keep and maintain an inventory of your jewelry and individual valuables - this should be part of a broader home inventory to help you better understand everything you own.
Have an accurate estimate of the value of your jewelry - this may mean getting valuables appraised by a professional.
To discuss insurance options, talk to your insurance agent to see what additional coverages are available.

"Allstate is dedicated to helping customers protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow," said Moree. "We understand that jewelry often carries significance that no insurance can replace, but our goal is to give our customers peace of mind that they are financially protected."

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Bill Mellander, Allstate Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Property: Renter's Insurance: Are Your Belongings Covered?

Tue, 03 Aug 2004 02:00:00 -0500

Allstate Insurance Company Stresses the Need to help Protect Your Belongings

(En Español)

With moving season in high gear, many renters need a reminder that their stuff isn't any less valuable because they rent. Once the last box is unpacked and everything has a place in the new home, it's time to think about renter's insurance, a safety net that helps protect a person's covered possessions in the event that misfortune occurs.

With nearly two-thirds of renters lacking renters insurance, according to a 2003 poll conducted by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, too many people are at risk for a major loss.

There are more than 35 million rental units in this country, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and about 22 million of them are not insured.

"Many individuals are unaware that renters insurance can be critical in helping to protect their belongings in the event of a burglary, fire, or other covered event that can damage or destroy the contents of their residence," said Jeffrey Deigl, assistant vice president of specialty product lines, Allstate Insurance Company."We see people all the time who don't realize how important it is to have renters insurance until after they've suffered damage to or loss of their personal property."

Misinformation about renters insurance exists among many Americans, who may not realize that the coverages are fairly inexpensive and that the contents of their rented homes and apartments are not covered under the landlord's insurance policy.

"Educating renters about the need for insuring their belongings is critical, as many individuals aren't aware of the need for renters insurance until they suffer a loss," said Eric Remer, CEO of The Conclave Group, LLC, a marketing service company that has developed a proprietary distribution network designed to connect national retailers and service providers with the hard to reach apartment renter community."We're pleased to work with Allstate to increase the awareness of renters insurance among our customers."

The Facts on Rental Insurance

It's inexpensive: Renters insurance costs on average, about 50 cents a day, but may vary by state.Premium based on rounded national average. Actual premium will vary based on amount of insurance purchased and other factors.Insurance is subject to availability, qualifications, and policy terms.

The risk is real: Renters insurance helps provide protection for many personal belongings if they are stolen or destroyed by fire or other covered losses.

Personal possessions are expensive: People are often surprised when they add up the value of personal possessions such as televisions, stereo equipment, CDs, clothing, linens and other important valuables.Many people find they can't afford to replace or repair their possessions without assistance.Others find that even though their possessions are dated, the cost to replace them would be unaffordable if they experienced a loss.

Protects an individual's financial future: Renters insurance can help provide protection up to policy limits if an individual becomes legally obligated to pay for covered accidental bodily injury or property damage to others.

Most renters insurance policies include personal property protection in the event of a covered loss, theft coverage, family liability and guest medical protection up to policy limits.Additional coverages including tailored plans to cover jewelry, furs and expensive electronic equipment are available.In most states, Allstate also offers a multi-line discount on renter's insurance to people who already have an auto insurance policy with the company.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in more than 16 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through more than 12,900 exclusive agencies and financial specialists in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. EncompassSM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, annuity, retirement, banking and investment products through distribution channels that include Allstate agencies, independent agencies, worksite, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Laura Margolis,(847) 402-5600

Property: Allstate Launches Campaign to Promote Awareness of Renters Insurance

Thu, 22 Jul 2004 02:00:56 -0500

Allstate Insurance Company announces a radio marketing campaign designed to educate consumers about the importance of renters insurance. The campaign launches the week of July 26 and includes radio advertising featuring spokesperson Dennis Haysbert with unique programming and sponsorships. The campaign integrates tactics to remind consumers how important rental insurance is to their financial protection: that their belongings aren't any less valuable because they rent.

Allstate's renter's insurance campaign targets twenty- something professionals, who may have a number of misconceptions about the value of their belongings. In addition, many renters are unaware of steps they can take to help protect the contents of their dwelling in the event that a loss is experienced. These individuals, on average, own about $20,000 worth of personal possessions.

"This campaign is designed to help renters understand they can protect their belongings with a renter's insurance policy for a relatively low cost," said Lisa Cochrane, vice president, integrated marketing communications, Allstate Insurance Company. "Many renters are not aware of the cumulative value of what they own and are also under the misconception that their stuff is protected by their landlord's insurance."

The radio campaign features 60-second program vignettes providing advice to current and prospective renters, DJ discussion and personal anecdotes about renting, and sponsorship of weather, traffic and entertainment reports. The promotion is designed to educate consumers and increase awareness about the need for renters insurance.

The promotion will launch in cities across the country including: Albany, Baltimore, Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, Greenville, SC, Nashville, New York City, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Rochester, NY, San Antonio and Washington, D.C.

PLEASE NOTE: The radio marketing campaign discussed above does not apply in Florida. For information about the renters insurance radio marketing campaign being introduced in Florida by the Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company, please contact Laura Margolis at 847.402.5600.

About Allstate

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in more than 16 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through more than 12,900 exclusive agencies and financial specialists in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, annuity, retirement, banking and investment products through distribution channels that include Allstate agencies, independent agencies, worksite, financial institutions and broker-dealers

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Laura Margolis
847.402.5600
lma2n@allstate.com

Property: Is Your Home Ready For Spring?

Thu, 01 Apr 2004 01:00:00 -0600

Did you know the weight of heavy winter snows could change the slope of your front lawn, or that the air conditioner outside your home could cause water damage inside your house? Last year, Allstate policyholders filed more than 870,000 insurance claims for damage to their homes. Of these, more than 400,000 claims were for non-catastrophe or fire damages including broken water pipes, cracked washing machine hoses, and leaky roofs. This is a clear illustration that it doesn’t take a major natural disaster or fire to damage your home.

“Winter weather can be extremely hard on a house. Spring-cleaning is an excellent opportunity to identify and correct minor, seasonal problems that could end up causing more significant damage, frustration, and possibly an insurance claim down the road,” said Mark McGillivray, Director of homeowners’ claims for Allstate Insurance Company.

Five easy ideas for spring-cleaning…

Check roofs and windows…

Visually inspect roof valleys, chimneys, skylights, and vent flashings.

Walk your yard…

Check the grading of your property to ensure it drains away from your home’s foundation.

Wet and snowy winter weather can cause soil to settle in plant and flowerbed areas, which are usually adjacent to your home’s foundation wall. This can cause water to build up next to the foundation and possibly get into your home. If needed, re-fill or re-grade depressed areas. Basement window wells should also be cleaned, and covers considered, avoiding rainwater build-up and unnecessary leakage in these areas.

Inspect gutters…

Gutters should be inspected for debris and proper mounting.

The expansion and weight of ice and snow from winter storms can sometimes loosen gutters from their mounting points causing a change in pitch and water flow. Also, make sure downspouts are extended far enough to carry water away from the foundation wall of your house.

Condition your air conditioner…

Check the drainage pan and lines.

The drainage pan and drain line should be free of dust and debris that may accumulate over the winter. An obstructed pan and line could lead to an overflow and water damage.

Test pumps…

If you have a sump-pump, test it to make sure it is working properly.

Test that the motor, float switch, and check valve are working properly and the water is draining from the chamber. A back-up pump, or system, may be a consideration if you live in an area prone to groundwater problems.

“If it’s been a while since you spoke with your insurance agent, now is also the time to update your policy to include any additions and changes to your home and family,” McGillivray said. “Keeping your insurance agent up-to-date on changes and additions to your home and family is an essential part of helping ensure you are adequately covered.”

Some work, particularly on roofs, may require professional services. Some homeowners may not be comfortable inspecting or working on their roof or on ladders. If so, check references with your local better business bureau, homebuilders association, or contractors association to help ensure you’re hiring a qualified, reputable repair professional to work on your home.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the “You’re In Good Hands With Allstate®” slogan, Allstate provides insurance products to more than 16 million households and has approximately 12,900 exclusive agencies and financial specialists in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services through Allstate agents, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. EncompassSM and Deerbrook® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. Allstate Financial Group includes the businesses that provide life, annuity and insurance, retirement, banking and investment products through distribution channels that include Allstate agents, independent agents, worksite, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Bill Mellander 847-402-5600