Mailbox Repair / Replacement Policy

[Approved by Selectmen on 01/23/08]
Mailbox Repair / Replacement Policy

Postal Regulations require customers to provide and erect at their own expense rural mailboxes, which meet official standards. These standards are extensive, but generally require the customer to maintain a mailbox and post in good structural condition that can withstand the effects of plowing operations in New England.  Inspections by the postal carriers may result in a notice for corrective attention at the customer’s expense.

Further, Postal Regulations require the customer to maintain approaches to curbside mailboxes at all times of the year.  In the winter, this requires the clearing of snow and ice by the customer to allow for a 30-foot approach for the delivery and collection of the mail.

The Hampden Highway Department is not responsible for damages to mailboxes and posts due to snow removal unless it was directly hit by the plow or other piece of highway equipment.  If a mailbox is reported as being damaged by the Highway Department, the Highway Superintendent will investigate the claim and determine if the damage occurred from direct contact by highway equipment.  If it is determined that the town is responsible, the mailbox and /or post will either be repaired or replaced at the town’s expense. Mailboxes and/or posts that require replacement will receive standard items from local hardware suppliers and be installed by town employees in a reasonable period of time.

Owners of ornamental or specialty types of mailboxes are encouraged to take appropriate action to protect their investment. This may include the removal of the mailbox for the winter months and installing a temporary, less expensive mailbox.  Owners who choose to leave the more expensive mailboxes up for the winter season may wish to install protective barriers in advance of the mailbox to eliminate direct contact of the snow with the mailbox.  The Town of Hampden will not replace or reimburse owners for expenses associated with these types of mailboxes.  However, in cases where the town is found to be responsible for damages to these types of mailboxes, the owner may request a reimbursement of up to $50.00, for replacement parts. If approved, the owner must provide a receipt for the expenses and agree to install them themselves.  Under no circumstances will the town pay more than $50.00 for each occurrence.