Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I contact the SCE claims department?
- What type of claims support documentation will SCE accept?
- When is SCE responsible for damages?
- Where else can I file a claim?
- What if my claim is denied?
- What is the role of the California Public Utilities Commission?
How do I contact the SCE claims department?
To leave a phone message for a claims representative, please call
What type of claims support documentation will SCE accept?
You can help us process your claim more quickly by completing your claim form thoroughly, and providing supporting documentation. Documents to support your claim may include:
- For claims regarding property damage: repair estimates, invoices, proofs of purchase
- For personal injury claims: medical records, receipts; in cases of lost wages: employer verification, payroll stubs showing hourly rate of pay
- For business loss claims: tax records, bank statements, payroll records, revenue and expense statements, sales receipts
- For claims regarding food loss*: itemized list detailing spoiled food, with receipts or documentation of cost.
*Our evaluation of food loss claims is based on information recommended by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in What Consumers Need to Know About Food and Water Safety During Hurricanes, Power Outages, and Floods.
When is SCE responsible for damages?
Generally, we are responsible for losses that occur due to our negligence. In most instances, we are NOT responsible for
- Power outages, voltage fluctuations, food loss, or property damage that occur due to forces outside our control, such as earthquakes and weather-related conditions including rain, fog, lightning, wind, or extreme heat.
- Losses caused by third parties including vehicles and construction equipment, as well as birds, animals and vegetation that come into contact with our equipment.
We exercise diligence to furnish a continuous and sufficient supply of electricity to our customers, and avoid any shortage or interruption of delivery of service. We cannot, however, guarantee a continuous or sufficient supply or freedom from interruption. We will not be liable for interruption or shortage of supply, nor for any resulting loss or damage, if such interruption or shortage results from any cause not within our control.
Download the complete text for Tariff Rule 14 — "Shortage of Supply and Interruption of Delivery".
Where else can I file a claim?
As another option, you may choose to file a claim with your insurance company to reimburse you for your loss, less your deductible; your insurer may then choose to present a claim to us to recover compensation paid to you.
What if my claim is denied?
We review all claims thoroughly. If your claim is denied, we will explain the reasons for the denial. If you are not satisfied with our decision, you have the right at any time to file a civil action, including a small claims action.
Statute of limitations on filing a claim:
- 3 years for property damage
- 2 years for bodily injury
What is the role of the California Public Utilities Commission?
The California Public Utilities Commission sets general rules relating to claims processing, but does not rule on the merits of individual claims. For more information about the role of the CPUC, call (800) 649-7570 or visit www.cpuc.ca.gov.

