34 Pa.C.S. § 552

As soon as possible after the claim for damages is received, an officer of the commission shall interview the claimant and inspect the property reported as damaged, if not previously inspected, to collect any additional evidence which may appear necessary and effect a settlement of the claim when possible. The officer of the commission shall have authority immediately to seize any property for evidence which shall be returned to the owner upon refusal of the claim or, upon payment of the claim, disposed of at the discretion of the director.