Reply #5: It is regional

[Rage for Order]

Specifically, the region affected by Hurricane Katrina. Read the article...essentially SF had engineering reports that showed wind damage, which is covered in their policies, re-done by another firm to emphasize water damage instead, which they do not cover.

Excerpted from article:

Terri Mullins property, Kiln, Miss.

Oct. 23, 2005: Forensic Analysis & Engineering Corp., hired by State Farm, concluded "the primary and predominant cause of damage to the subject property was due to hurricane force winds. This is based on the displacement of the house and the absence of water damage to the same."

Jan. 3, 2006: A second Forensic Analysis report says wind caused "tree failures," the cause of interior damage is undetermined and that "movement of the house across the street with "minimal obvious wind damage is consistent with a buoyant force applied to the building by rising water allowing the wind to blow the house northwards until it reached an obstruction." (State Farm interprets its policies to say wind damage is not covered when water contributes.)

Thomas and Pamela McIntosh property, Biloxi

Oct. 12, 2005: Forensic Analysis & Engineering Corp. concluded roof, door, carport and window damage was caused by wind, along with interior damage. The report State Farm ordered included a sticky note on the first page that said, "Put in Wind file - DO NOT Pay Bill, DO NOT discuss."

Oct. 20, 2005: Forensic concluded wind damaged shingles, along with the second story floor and first floor ceilings, but said "damage to first floor walls and floors appears to be predominately caused by rising water."