Allstate Insurance - Doug Harlow - Santa Barbara, California

Sarah

This agency was super helpful when I needed a new auto policy after moving to California. However, now their office number goes to Allstate's general automated customer service which is fine but not great. I sent an email as well for help and received no reply. What's the point of working with a local agent if they don't respond?

Ashley L.

I love Carrie. She always answers my emails quickly and thoroughly. We just bought a home and a she was so helpful with the new quotes and communicating with the Escrow company. During covid money was a little tight and Carrie helped review everything and adjusted it to help us get through.

Linda S.

After many years, we've now moved out of state and need to leave the Santa Barbara Allstate agency behind. I've enjoyed working with Amber Mulleda, who has been responsive and helpful, always finding the best plans for our family's cars and quickly settling a couple of small claims when the kids had fender-benders. I hope folks at the new agency in Sequim will be equally nice to work with.

tswrench

I had been insured by Allstate for over 30-years. A few years back, my original Allstate agent, Gary Watts, closed shop and my policies were transferred to the Harlow Agency. Since that time, I have interacted with various Harlow agents, including Doug Harlow, himself. Overall, the assistance I've received from Harlow has been subpar compared to the service I received from my original agent. What I look for in an agent, is someone who'll go to bat for me when necessary. I don't want an agent who approaches the job as though the point of customer service is to hold the customer's hand and provide disingenuous sympathy while unreasonable rates and misapplied charges go into effect - it is my opinion that the Harlow Agency does exactly that.

The last time my policy was due to be renewed with Allstate, they had increased my premium by over 100%. The increase was based on a minor accident I had in May or June, 2016. In over 30-years with Allstate, it was only the second accident wherein I was found to be at fault; both accidents occurred decades apart and were classified as "minor." When I called the Harlow Agency and spoke to one of the agents, they were unable to lower my premium payment, and so, I requested further assistance, and was put through to Doug Harlow. What followed was a brief conversation in which I told Doug, that if the premium increase could not be reduced, I'd be taking my business elsewhere after 30+ years. Doug Harlow's response was, "It is what it is." Apathy and platitudes are not what I want to hear when I'm in need of REAL service from my insurance agency, and this was not the first time I received that type of response from Doug Harlow; it would, however, be the last. If lousy service and unfair rate increases are all that Harlow and Allstate have to offer, then as far as I'm concerned the "Good Hands People" can keep their grubby hands to themselves and out of my pocket.

Within an hour of my call to Harlow, I had a rate quote for the same coverage from another company that saved me over 40% from what Allstate and The Harlow Agency were trying to charge. During this process, it occured to me that with phone, online and mobile app support, brick and mortar agencies like Harlow, may well be the dinosaurs of the insurance industry. Choose wisely.

Campbell S.

Such a terrible experience here. I registered my street bike here and they registered it as an off road vehicle. I feel like if i was involved in an accident i would not have been covered only due to an obvious mistake of registering a sport bike off road. Then when i cancelled the policy i had to wait 2 and a half weeks and call 5 separate times to get a refund. Every time they would tell me i would get a call right back and it would never come. Horrible customer service and clearly ignorant staff.

anthony M.

I had all the paper work filled out and the policy was set once it was time for payment they were trying to make me require renters insurance. I kept telling them i only needed auto but they said it was required or the couldn't give me the policy.

pattie L.

My boyfriend gets his motorcycle insurance here.It is very affordable and they have great customer service.He likes things old school (snail mail)and they were able to accommodate.

Patti S.

Sarah and Carrie gave me great customer service in a very expeditious and professional manner. They are very friendly and really care about your needs.