Damage Claims

The City is committed to resolutions that are fair and reasonable. You can expect to be treated with respect and in a professional manner. Although you may not always get the answer you desire, the City will provide the basis for its position and do its best to explain the rationale behind the decisions made regarding claims.

Making a Claim Against the City

If you believe that the City has been negligent in its maintenance of municipal facilities, roads, sewers, which has caused you injury or damage to your property, you can file a notice of claim.

What to Consider When Making a Claim

We recommend you consult your insurance company or insurance representative first, for advice on how to deal with injury or damage. Your insurance coverage may be more extensive than what you can recover from the City.

If your insurer believes the City is responsible for your damages they may seek compensation against the City on your behalf.

All City claims are handled by an independent adjuster, not City staff.

The City only provides consideration of your claim if it is legally responsible for your damage as determined by the independent adjuster handing your claim.

Claim Details

Prepare and submit the appropriate damage claim form. The form must be fully completed to allow the City to investigate your claim. Claims can be submitted online by clicking here.

Motor Vehicle Damage Claim

Step One: Contact Your Insurance Representative

If your vehicle was damaged in an auto collision with a City vehicle (regardless of fault) you must report the damage to your own insurance company as required by the no-fault, auto insurance legislation in Ontario. Your own insurance policy may cover the costs of your damage. Contact your own insurance representative regarding damages.

Step Two: File Your Claim on Time (Within 10 days)

You have 10 days from the date of your loss or damage to report your claim to the City for claims involving road damage (for example, potholes) to your vehicle. Other types of vehicle damage claims also have a 10 day reporting period.

Step Three: Submit a Claim Form

Access the online form by clicking here.

Property Damage Claim

Step One: Contact Your Insurance Representative

Your own insurance policy may cover the costs of your damage. Contact your own insurance representative regarding damages. If your insurer believes the City is legally liable, it will deal with the City on your behalf.

Step Two: Submit a Claim Form

If your insurer recommends that your damages are of a nature that you should file a claim directly with the City then complete the online form. Access the form by clicking here.

Personal Injury Claim

Step One: Consider the Time Limitation for Providing Notice

Depending on the circumstances of the incident, there may be a 10 day notice period for providing the City with a notice of an injury claim. It is highly recommended that you complete a claim form and send it to the City as soon as possible.

Step Two: Submit a Claim Form

Access the online form by clicking here.

What Happens Once My Claim is Submitted?

Step One: Your Case is Sent to an Independent Adjuster for Review

Your claim form and all attached information (photos, documents and more) will be sent to an independent adjuster. All claims are managed and investigated by an independent adjuster, not City staff. After you make your claim in writing, all future dealings regarding the claim are between you and the independent adjuster, not City staff. If it happens that a contractor had control over the location where your damage or injury took place at the time of your claim, the independent adjuster will forward your claim form to the contractor for their investigation and liability determination. You will be advised by the independent adjuster in writing if your City Claim Form has been forwarded to the contractor.

Step Two: Case Review

The independent adjuster will review your case and make a determination of whether or not the City is legally liable for damages.

Step Three: Decision

You can be advised in writing by the independent adjuster of the outcome of your claim. Your claim will only be paid if the adjuster determines that the City is legally liable.

How Long Will It Take To Get a Decision on my Claim?

Typically, damage claims are completed by the independent insurance adjuster within 90 days. Storm events and other circumstances can delay the completion of this process.

Contact Us

Phone
705-759-5400

Fax
705-759-5405

TTY
1-877-688-5528

Location
Civic Centre - Level 4

Our Team