Meteorologists predict that potentially dangerous arctic temperatures will grip Tennessee and much of the southeastern United States throughout next week.
Ahead of this potential storm, the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI) is sharing insurance claims information to help consumers know what to do in the event of home or vehicle damage caused by January’s winter storm system. A video with this information can be found here.
“As temperatures drop during this winter weather, the risks to lives and property will increase,” said TDCI Commissioner Carter Lawrence. “I urge Tennesseans to take precautions to protect their property and to check on elderly relatives and neighbors to make sure they have adequate and safe heating sources during the storm.”
If your pipes freeze:
- Shut off the water Immediately. Do not attempt to defrost pipes without first turning off the main shut-off valve. Melt the tubes with warm air. You can thaw the frozen water in the pipe by warming the air around it with a hair dryer or heater. Make sure not to leave the space heater unattended.
- never Try thawing frozen pipes using a blow torch or other open flame.
- Be careful when turning the water back on. Once the pipes are thawed, slowly turn the water back on and check again for any cracks or additional leaks.
If you have damage to your home/car:
- Contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible. Determine which forms, documents, and data you will need to submit to process your claim.
- Keep all receipts and damaged property for the officer to examine. If possible, take photos or videos of the damage before making temporary repairs to protect your property from further damage. Do not make permanent repairs. The insurance company may deny the claim if you make permanent repairs before the adjuster inspects the damage.
- If you will be away from your home and it may freeze, you should use reasonable care to heat the home or shut off the water supply and drain water from the plumbing, heating and air conditioning systems.
What to do if damage occurs to your home:
- Contact 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 photos/video of the damage.
- Make necessary repairs to prevent further damage to your property (for example, covering up broken windows, leaking roofs, damaged walls). Do not make permanent repairs until your insurance company has inspected the property and reached an agreement on the cost of the repairs.
- Save all receipts, including those for temporary repairs covered by your insurance policy.
- If your home is damaged to the point that you cannot live in it, 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.
Questions about fire safety at home in winter? The Tennessee Fire Marshal’s Office previously shared fire safety tips.