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How does JEA process and evaluate claims for tangible property damage?
- Overview
- How do I file a claim?
- What is our claims policy and process?
- Who is responsible for damages?
- What supporting documentation is needed?
- What are your claims options?
- What if your claim is denied?
- How can I check on the status of my claim?
Overview
We understand that you have suffered a loss and that you believe JEA may be responsible. If we are responsible, we are sorry and we want to promptly and fairly compensate you for your loss. To evaluate your claim, we must determine how the incident happened, whether or not we caused it, the extent of your damages, and what the law considers fair compensation. Below you will find frequently asked questions about filing a claim with JEA.
How do I file a claim?
JEA is self-insured and claims are administered through City Risk Management. Please call 630-7521 and someone will assist you.
What is your claims policy and process?
It is JEA’s policy to respond to claims promptly and fairly. We evaluate each claim case by case based on the information you provided and our investigation, which may involve the review of records, interview of employees or witnesses, and a technical evaluation. This can take some time, depending on the complexity of the incident and the quality of the information that you provide. Our goal is to reach a decision about the claim within one week of receipt. However, if there are complex issues involved or if we need additional information, the process may take longer. When the investigation is complete our claims service company will notify you of the conclusion.
Who is responsible for damages?
Generally speaking, JEA is only responsible for damages that result from its negligence or employee negligence. We are not responsible for damages that we do not cause or that are the result of forces beyond our control. For example, in most instances we are not responsible for power outages or voltage fluctuations caused by weather-related conditions such as lightning, storms, heat, cold or other acts of nature involving trees, birds or other animals.
You also have a responsibility to protect yourself and your property. You must mitigate your damages, which means that you have the duty to try to minimize the loss such as obtaining ice to prevent food spoilage and to make sure that losses or expenses incurred because of an incident are not accumulating needlessly and that they are reasonable in relation to the loss.
What supporting documentation is needed?
You may expedite this process by providing an accurate statement of what occurred and complete supporting documentation of: itemized damages, detailed repair statements, receipts for out of pocket expenses and photographs.
We evaluate food spoilage complaints based on the recommended guidelines from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the length of time the service was off.
- A fully stocked freezer will usually keep food frozen for two days after a loss.
- A half-full freezer will usually keep food frozen about one day.
- In the refrigerator, food will usually keep cold up to four hours if the door remains unopened.
What are your options?
You may wish to refer your claim to your insurance company. The insurer may be able to reimburse you for your losses without an investigation.
What if your claim is denied?
JEA takes pride in evaluating all claims fairly. If your claim is denied, we will explain the reason for the denial. If you are not satisfied with our decision and explanation, you have the right, at any time in the claims process, to file a court action.
How can I check on the status of my claim?
You may contact City Risk Management at 630-7521 or you can send an e-mail to Joneej@jea.com with your request.
Filed customer claims are handled by City Risk Management. If you have a claim against JEA, please call (904) 630-7521.
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