The District's property and liability losses program is coordinated by Risk Management Services. The District is a member of the Statewide Association of Community Colleges-JPA (SWACC).  SWACC is a member owned and operated property and liability Joint Powers Authority (JPA) that provides programs and resources to specifically address its community college members exposure to loss through broad and unique coverages, specialized loss control services, trainings, fiscally responsible self-funding, and risk transfer.

Property & Liability Claims

The Pasadena Area Community College District (the "District") has established a formal process for individuals seeking to file a tort claim for damages arising from the actions or inactions of the District. To initiate the process, you must complete and submit a Claim for Damages form, along with all relevant supporting documentation.

How to File a Tort Claim:

1.            Determine if your claim qualifies as a tort:

Tort claims generally involve financial losses resulting from injury, property damage, or other harm caused by the District’s conduct or negligence.

2.            Complete the Claim for Damages form:

The required damages form is available here and located on the District’s Risk Management webpage

3.            Gather supporting documentation:

Include all relevant documents that substantiate your claim, such as:

  • Police or incident reports
  • Medical records or bills
  • Photographs
  • Repair estimates

Thorough documentation significantly improves the likelihood of a successful review.

4.            Submit the completed form and documentation:

You may submit your claim by either of the following methods:

By Mail:
Darlene Inda, Executive Director
Pasadena City College
Business & College Services
1570 East Colorado Blvd, Room R201
Pasadena, CA 91106-2003

By Email:
Send your completed claim form and supporting materials to Darlene Inda at:
dinda@pasadena.edu

Follow-Up Process:

Once your claim is received, the Business & College Services Office will review your submission. You may be contacted for additional information or assigned an investigator to assess the claim.

Important Deadlines:

Per California Government Code Section 911.2:

Claims involving death, personal injury, or personal property damage must be filed within six (6) months of the incident.
Claims involving real property damage or breach of contract must be filed within one (1) year of the incident.

Legal Notice:

Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 72:

Every person who, with intent to defraud, presents for payment to any school district any false or fraudulent claim is guilty of a felony, punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment.

Types of Property & Liability Claims

General liability, automobile
First Party Property Damage
Potential Claims - serious injuries/fatalities
Tort or Contract Lawsuits

Certificates of Insurance/Coverage 

A Certificate of Insurance (COI) or Certificate of Coverage (COC) is an official document issued by an insurance company that verifies the existence of an insurance policy. It summarizes the key details of the coverage and serves as proof of insurance. These certificates are often required for business contracts, agreements, and transactions to ensure all parties maintain the necessary insurance coverage. All COIs/COCs for PCC are issued by Keenan & Associates.

How to Request a COI or COC

1.            Provide the Contract or Agreement

Submit a copy of the contract or agreement.

  • If no contract or agreement is being used (e.g., for an equipment lease), contact Risk Management at (626) 585-7177 for guidance.

4. Complete the Request Form

 Fill out the Request for Certificate form.

3. Obtain Executive Approval

Ensure the contract or agreement has been reviewed, approved, and signed by the Executive Director of Business Services.

4. Submit Documentation

Send the following to Risk Management:

  • The signed contract or agreement
  • The completed Request for Certificate form

Important Note:
Contracts or agreements must not include a waiver of subrogation clause that relinquishes the District’s right to pursue claims against third parties. If the vendor will not remove such language, contact Risk Management for further direction.