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Frequently Asked Questions: Claim for Damages

Frequently Asked Questions: Claim for Damages

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What is a claim for damages?

A claim is a request for payment for a loss, injury, or damages that you believe have been caused by the Seattle Housing Authority, its officers, its employees, or its volunteers acting in such a capacity

How long do I have to file a claim?

You must file your claim within the state statute of limitations.  There are different statutes of limitation for different types of claims.  See RCW 4.16 for the various statutes of limitations.

How do I get a claim form to file against Seattle Housing Authority?

You can print a claim form from the website or call 206-615-3300 to request a form mailed to you, or you can pick up a claim form from the Seattle Housing Authority central office location at 190 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA  98109 (5th floor). 

What information do I need to include on the form?

Claim must include:

  1. Your name, date of birth, contact information
  2. Description of the conduct and circumstances that brought about the injury or damage.
  3. Description of the injury or damage
  4. Statement of the time and place the injury or damage occurred.
  5. List of all persons involved and contact information, if known
  6. Statement of the amount of damages claimed.
  7. Statement of the actual residence of the claimant at the time of presenting the claim and at the time the claim arose.
  8. A signature of either:
    1. the person filing the claim
    2. the attorney-in-fact for the claimant pursuant to a written power of attorney
    3. an attorney admitted to practice in Washington State filing a claim on the claimant's behalf, or
    4. a court approved guardian or guardian ad litem on behalf of the claimant.

 

Should I include other documents? 

It will help your claim to include any supporting documents such as photos, receipts, estimates and invoices along with any additional evidence such as diagrams.  All documents filed are subject to Washington State public disclosure statutes.

Where do I file my claim?

Mail to:

Seattle Housing Authority
101 Elliott Ave W, Suite 100
P.O. Box 79015,
Seattle, Washington, 98119.

Deliver to:

Seattle Housing Authority
101 Elliott Ave W, Suite 100
Seattle, Washington, 98119.

Business Hours:   Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Closed on weekends and official holidays

Email:     RiskManagement@seattlehousing.org

What is the claim process?

After a complete Claim for Damages form is submitted to the Seattle Housing Authority, it is delivered to the Risk Management department.  The Risk Manager will review your Claim for Damages form.  An investigation may take place.  During the investigation you may be asked to provide additional information to support your claim. 

The Risk Manager will evaluate and recommend a resolution of your claim.  This may include, but is not limited to:

  1. Pay a sum of money.
  2. Tender – transfer to another party or entity responsible for your alleged damages.
  3. Deny – where there is no evidence of any negligence by the Seattle Housing Authority

 

How long will the investigation take?

The investigation process will vary from case to case.  We strive to resolve a claim within 90 days, however more complicated cases may take longer.  However, if Seattle Housing Authority takes no action, the claim is deemed rejected.

What are the considerations in evaluation of a claim? 

Considerations may include but are limited to -

  1. The facts of the loss
  2. Whether Seattle Housing Authority has a legal responsibility
  3. The Claimants role in the situation

 

I was injured.  Who is going to pay for my medical expenses?

You are responsible for all medical expenses that you incur.  If you believe the Seattle Housing Authority is responsible for your injuries, you must file a claim. The circumstances surrounding your injury will be investigated.  If a settlement is warranted, it may include reimbursement of your medical bills.  Seattle Housing Authority does not pay medical providers directly.

What if my claim is denied and I wish to appeal?

You can submit your appeal in writing and provide any supporting documentation to Seattle Housing Authority Risk Management department.