Columbus State Auto Joins Institute for Business & Home Safety

Columbus-based State Auto Insurance recently announced that it has joined the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS).

IBHS is an initiative of the insurance industry that works to reduce the social and economic effects of natural disasters and other property losses. Through research and by advocating improved construction, maintenance and preparation practices, Tampa, Fla.-based IBHS encourages homes and businesses that are constructed to keep people and property safe, the State Auto statement said.

“The mission of IBHS runs parallel to State Auto’s mission: enhancing the financial interests of our customers,” said State Auto Chairman and CEO Bob Restrepo. “The work of IBHS is increasingly relevant to every one of our home and business insurance policyholders.”

IBHS representatives recently joined in a successful education effort against a proposed amendment to weaken South Carolina’s building code, aided in the strengthening of Florida’s building codes, and appeared in The Weather Channel’s special report on the 2007 hurricane season to offer home protection advice.

The State Auto Insurance Cos., headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, are engaged primarily in writing personal and business insurance products through approximately 3,300 agencies in 29 states.

Source: State Auto Insurance Cos.