TDCI Opens Community Resource Center in Pigeon Forge
In an effort to assist Tennesseans affected by the
"The damage created by the wildfires was heartbreaking," said TDCI Commissioner
* Numerous insurance carriers on-site with mobile emergency teams.
* Representatives from the
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* Officials to provide forms to apply for building permits and provide guidance for that process for both residential and commercial buildings.
If you have been affected by the wildfires and are filing a claim, remember these tips:
* If your home has been damaged or destroyed by fire, call your insurance company or agent with your policy number and other relevant information as soon as possible. Cooperate fully with the insurance company, and ask what documents, forms and data you will need.
* Take photographs/video of the damage. Make an inventory of the items that have been lost.
* Make the repairs necessary to prevent further damage to your property (i.e., cover broken windows, leaking roofs and damaged walls).
* Do not have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement on the cost of repairs.
* Save all receipts, including those from the temporary repairs covered by your insurance policy.
* If your home is damaged to the extent that you cannot live there, ask your insurance company if you have coverage for additional living expenses incurred while repairs are being made. Save all receipts to document these costs.
* If you have a dispute with your insurer about the amount or terms of the claim settlement, you can contact TDCI for assistance. Click here to visit our website.
Hiring Contractors:
* To protect yourself, only hire licensed contractors. Visit verify.tn.gov to ensure that a contractor is properly licensed to work in the
Before you hire a contractor:
* Make sure the contractor is properly licensed. Write down the license number and verify that it is legitimate by visiting http://verify.tn.gov.
* Get several bids. It's best to get at least three bids and check references.
* Get a written contract that includes the company's name, address, and telephone number. The contract should also include an anticipated start and completion date.
* Never pay more than one-third down and do not let the payments get ahead of the work.
* Make sure the contractor is insured to cover workers' compensation, damage and general liability insurance.
* When hiring a contractor, avoid:
* A person going door-to-door selling their services.
* A person who offers services for a short time only, which makes consumers feel rushed and unable to research the contractor.
* Unmarked trucks or vans, or a refusal or reluctance to set out complete and specific contract terms in writing.
* Being pressured to pay for more than half of the cost upfront.
To file a complaint about a contractor with the
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