The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) and the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors have issued guidance for consumers rebuilding after Hurricane Helene. These steps aim to protect individuals from potential scams by unlicensed or unscrupulous contractors.
Assistant Commissioner for the Division of Regulatory Boards, Reid Witcher, emphasized the importance of vigilance, noting that while many contractors are trustworthy, some may exploit the situation. Consumers with concerns about contractors are encouraged to reach out to TDCI to ask questions or file complaints.
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Christopher Burkhart, Executive Director of the Board for Licensing Contractors, assured support for those affected by the hurricane, highlighting the board’s commitment to assisting consumers with any contractor-related issues.
To guard against scams, TDCI recommends the following:
– Be cautious of door-to-door contractors offering repairs or debris removal, especially those demanding upfront payments or offering large discounts.
– Verify contractor licenses through TDCI’s online database to ensure they are authorized to work in Tennessee.
– Contractors must hold a license for projects costing $25,000 or more. For smaller projects, consult with local building codes offices regarding licensing and permit requirements.
– Obtain multiple bids and check references before selecting a contractor.
– Avoid contracts requiring more than one-third payment upfront and ensure payment terms are documented.
– Document the progress of work with photos and videos.
Tennessee law protects consumers under its felony theft statute if a contractor fails to complete work within 90 days after payment. More information on this legal protection is available online.
For further assistance, consumers can contact TDCI’s Board for Licensing Contractors at (800) 544-7693, (615) 741-8307, or via email at contractors.home-improvement@tn.gov.
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