This is part one of a four-part series that examines specific property claims filed by TAC Risk Management Pool members and their outcomes. See part two.
Key takeaway
Wharton County was able to turn a tragic fire loss into a benefit by being flexible and thinking a little outside the box. TAC RMP assisted the county by being flexible and collaborative during the claims process to reach a successful outcome.
TAC RMP member
Wharton County
Date of loss
June 22, 2018
Member contact
Commissioner Doug Mathews
On June 22, 2018, a large fire occurred at the Wharton County Precinct 4 building, which resulted in significant damages that left the building unusable. Mathews had to find a temporary building for Precinct 4's office and equipment to continue to serve the community during the replacement or repairs of the building.
The county's property coverage paid for the temporary lease location and additional costs to move to continue their normal operations. The property coverage also paid for the fire damages. Mathews and the county worked hard to determine if it was a better option to rebuild or to buy an existing building at a different location. It was able to use the funds paid by TAC RMP from the building damage claim to purchase the leased building.
Commissioner Doug Mathews comments:
"After the shock of the fire our first call was to TAC. We explained our problem and TAC sent an adjuster the next day. We were devastated to say the least, but the adjuster assured us that we were in good hands. Our claims rep led us though the whole process of recovery, (repairing anything salvageable, replacing everything that was destroyed, keeping our operations moving forward, etc.).
"We were able to rent a warehouse and office space that met our needs and TAC paid the full amount of rent as well as move-in expenses until we could rebuild or find a suitable new location. As it turned out the rental property became available for purchase and TAC stepped in with the amount that our original building was appraised for so that we could make the purchase for our new shop and office.
"We made many calls to TAC with questions of what to do next. Our claims rep had all the answers right away. TAC sent adjusters, investigators as well as information for architects and builders.
"During a very unsure and trying time we were led by a very helpful group of professionals so that we could serve our constituents as if nothing had happened."