Damaged Mailbox Policy and Claim Form
In 2023, the Muddy Creek Township Board of Supervisors adopted Resolution 2023-06: Establishing a Reimbursement Policy for Damaged Mailboxes.
Per this Resolution:
Resident Responsibilities:
- Proper Installation and Maintenance of Mailbox & Support Post: Mailboxes should be securely attached to the post, and both need to be structurally sound enough to withstand the weight of the snow as it comes off of the snowplow. Residents should also check the placement of the mailbox, ensuring that it is not leaning out into the road/berm.
- Annual Inspection & Maintenance/Repair: Residents are encouraged to inspect & evaluate the condition of their mailbox & support each year prior to the onset of winter weather.
Township Responsibilities:
- The Township Roadcrew makes every effort to avoid striking mailboxes when conducting snow plowing operations. In the event that a township snowplow physically strikes a mailbox, the Township may reimburse the resident for up to a maximum of $25 for the damages.
- Reimbursement is limited to one (1) time per year.
Damaged not Covered by the Township
The Township is not responsible and will not reimburse for the following:
- Damages to mailboxes and/or posts caused by PennDOT, private contractors, private vehicles, or any unknown sources
- Damages to mailboxes and/or posts caused by snow/slush rolling off the end of the snowplow.
- Damages to landscaping, sprinkler systems, and/or planting materials added to or around the mailbox/post.
- Damages to garbage containers and similar items that have been placed/left in the right-of-way.
What to do if Your Mailbox is Damaged:
If damage to your mailbox is caused by a Township snowplow physically striking the mailbox during snow removal operations:
- Take photos of the damaged mailbox. A paint mark or truck tire tracks will typically supply evidence of a direct strike. Submit these photos with the Claim Form.
- Do not discard the damaged mailbox before the Township inspection is completed.
- Complete the Mailbox Damage Claim Form. The form can be emailed to the Township Administrative Office at: muddycreektwp@gmail.com or dropped off at the Township building.
- This form must be submitted within 72-hours after the snow event is over.
Reasons That Your Damage May Not Qualify for Reimbursement:
- Placement or location of the mailbox does not meet the U.S. Postal Service guidelines.
- Mailbox, post, or support arm was previously damaged, rusted, or rotted.
- Mailbox is leaning over the road/berm.
- Damage was not caused by direct contact with a Township plow/truck.
- Claim form was not submitted within 72-hours after the snow event ended.