Winchester, Tennessee - In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI) is cautioning individuals affected by the storm about potential scams that may arise during the recovery process. Kevin Walters, the TDCI's communications director, emphasized the importance of being vigilant against fraudulent schemes targeting vulnerable disaster victims.
Insurance Claims and Protection
The TDCI advises East Tennesseans facing significant property damage to promptly contact their insurance agent to initiate the claims process, warning them to watch out for impostors posing as insurance representatives. If policyholders believe their insurance claims have been unfairly denied, they are encouraged to lodge a complaint with the TDCI.
Important Insurance Coverage Information
The TDCI clarifies that standard homeowners' insurance policies typically cover damages caused by wind, wind-driven rain, falling trees, or other objects. However, flood damage to the interior of a home is usually not covered and requires a separate flood insurance policy.
Contractor Hiring Tips
When hiring contractors for repair and reconstruction work, individuals are urged to verify the contractors' licenses, obtain multiple bids, check references, and be cautious of upfront payment requests or suspiciously low offers.
Assistance and Support
Commissioner Carter Lawrence has requested insurance carriers to grant a 60-day grace period for premium payments to those impacted by Helene. Additionally, disaster survivors in certain Tennessee regions can seek federal aid through FEMA. FEMA has already provided over $632,000 in disaster assistance to more than 33 households affected by Helene. Applicants can apply for FEMA assistance by calling the FEMA Helpline, visiting the FEMA website, or downloading the FEMA App.
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