Make a Claim

If you have experienced property damage or an injury and believe the City of St. Thomas may be responsible, you can submit a claim to the City for review.

In most situations, the City must receive written notice of a claim within 10 business days of the incident. We recommend submitting your claim as soon as possible.

Submit a claim

To submit a claim:

1. Complete the Claim Report Form.
2. Include as much information as possible about the incident, including the date, time, location, circumstances and any damage or injury.
3. Email your completed form and supporting documents to claims@stthomas.ca.

The Municipal Act, 2001 requires written notice of certain claims against a municipality. Completing the City's claim form helps ensure that the required information is provided.

What happens after you submit a claim

The City will acknowledge receipt of your claim within two weeks.

Once your claim is received, the City will review the information and investigate the circumstances. A final response is typically provided within three weeks, although the time required may vary depending on the circumstances of the claim.

Will the City pay my claim?

The City is only responsible for damages or injuries where it is legally liable.

Submitting a claim does not mean that the City will pay for your loss. The City will review the circumstances of the incident and determine whether it has a legal responsibility for the damage or injury.

You should also contact your insurance company or broker about any property damage, vehicle damage or other losses. Your insurer may be able to assist you with your claim and, where appropriate, pursue recovery from the City on your behalf.

While your claim is being reviewed

You are responsible for taking reasonable steps to prevent further damage or loss.

Keep records, photographs, receipts and other documents related to the incident and any resulting costs. These may be requested during the City's review of your claim.

Fraudulent claims

The City takes fraudulent claims seriously. Fraudulent claims may be investigated and prosecuted to the full extent permitted by law.

Damage to City property

When City property is damaged by a third party, the City may seek to recover the costs of repairing or replacing the damaged property from the person or organization responsible.

This may include damage to City infrastructure such as street lights, fire hydrants and other municipal property.