What is a damage claim?

Damage claims are filed when a person, business or organization believes that damages (personal injury, property damage, monetary loss) are the fault of the City.

How long will it take for my claim to be decided?

It depends on the type of claim and when it’s filed. Moral Claims are presented at the Moral Claims Commission in May and November. They approve or deny claims by majority vote. You will be notified of their decision in writing. Legal Claims take up to twelve weeks. This includes reviewing, researching, gathering documents, taking statements from witnesses, and rendering a decision. You will be advised of the decision in writing.

What documentation needs to be submitted with a damage claim?

If your claim involves automobile damages, you will need to submit the following:

• A copy of your automobile title
• If you have full coverage insurance, you must submit proof including the deductible amount.
• If you have liability-only insurance, you must submit proof
• Two estimates of costs of repair or an itemized repair bill
• Police report or incident report, if applicable
• Photographs of the alleged defect that caused your damages, if applicable.
• If your claim involves personal injury, include copies of all medical reports, doctor bills, hospital bills and pharmacy receipts
• Optional: witness statements, and photographs of the damages to your vehicle and the City property that you believe caused your damages
• Claim form

If your claim concerns property damage other than automobile, include an itemized list of property damages which has:

• An itemized list with the description of each item, with brand name and serial number
• The number of items lost
• The dates of purchase or ages of the items and purchase price
• Copies of all repair bills, receipts, and estimates concerning the described property

What if my damage claim is denied?

The Claims Division does not have an appeal process. If your matter is determined to be a legal issue, then you can file in Small Claims Court at the Justice Center on the third floor.

Who can I call for further information regarding damage claims?

• Utility Claims, including shut-offs, meter readings, and damage to property from Cleveland Public Power, Divisions of Water and Water Pollution Control: 664-2859
• Construction Claims, including vehicle damage due to construction cuts or street/sidewalk digging: 664-2859
• Property damage and pothole claims: including vehicle and property damage caused by Police vehicles, EMS or the Division of Fire: 664-2671

I have a tenant who won't pay his rent. Can I call the police?

No, call your attorney, as this is a civil matter.

How do I contest a parking ticket or a photo infraction?

If you believe that your ticket was issued in error, you have a right to contest the ticket. Full instructions are available on the Parking Violations Bureau website, which is linked to the Municipal Court site here.