The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. recently announced that it has created a new office in the greater Chicago area dedicated solely to processing claims that arise out of catastrophic events.

Hartford claims the new catastrophe office, which opened in May, will function as part of its existing property claim operations in that city and will focus on handling significant losses that arise from either manmade or natural disasters, according to the company.

The new office is staffed by a team of 36 claims representatives and “ will enhance the company's ability to respond to the unique needs of customers following a catastrophic event, such as a devastating hurricane or tornado,” claimed the company.