Tennessee Commerce and Insurance warns of storm chasers and scams after Isaias
After the remnants of Hurricane Isaias brought wind and rain to Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance reminded homeowners to watch for contractors who demand payment up front and for people posing as adjusters or government officials.
· KnoxvilleRoof.com news desk
The Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI) warned homeowners affected by the weekend's wind and rain from the remnants of Hurricane Isaias to watch for red flags that could mean they are dealing with a scammer. The department said disasters attract "storm chasers" who try to profit from a community's hardship.
TDCI's warnings include: be wary of contractors who demand payment before work starts or full payment before it is finished; if a contractor needs money for supplies, go with them and pay the supplier directly; get more than one bid and at least three references; don't be pressured into signing on the spot; and confirm the credentials of anyone claiming to be an insurance adjuster or government employee. If you disagree with your insurer, ask for the specific policy language it is relying on, and if you believe you were treated unfairly, file a complaint with TDCI.
What this means for homeowners
Tennessee's residential roofing law gives you three business days to cancel a roofing contract after your insurer denies all or part of the claim in writing. You can check a contractor's license at verify.tn.gov. In Knox County, roofing jobs from $3,000 to $24,999 require a Home Improvement license. See storm chasers and how to hire a roofer.