The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) reported that its mediation and restitution efforts returned $15.67 million to Tennesseans in 2025, bringing the total amount recovered for insurance consumers since 2020 to over $80 million. The department’s Consumer Insurance Services team handled 5,199 complaints during 2025, with the most frequent issues involving claim delays, claim denials, and unsatisfactory settlement offers. In early 2026, the team has already received over 940 complaints, a noticeable increase largely due to insurance-related issues stemming from the widespread damage and disruptions caused by Winter Storm Fern, a major January 2026 storm that brought heavy snow, sleet, freezing rain, ice accumulation, power outages, and other impacts across Tennessee.

TDCI Commissioner Carter Lawrence expressed pride in the team’s ongoing work to resolve unfair claim handling and urged affected consumers—particularly those still recovering from Winter Storm Fern—to file complaints for assistance with any insurance questions or disputes. Deputy Commissioner Bill Huddleston emphasized the importance of preparedness for future severe weather events, encouraging Tennesseans to review their insurance coverage for homes, autos, and families.

To help consumers make informed decisions, TDCI offered several key tips: thoroughly read and understand policy details, including exclusions (such as those for gradual damage from age or weathering versus sudden events); ensure coverage limits match current property values to avoid being under-insured; recognize that standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage, requiring separate flood insurance; verify that insurers and agents are licensed in Tennessee; maintain records like photos and receipts of personal property (using tools like the NAIC Home Inventory App); and work with licensed agents when purchasing life insurance to tailor it to individual needs and health factors. Consumers with questions or concerns can contact TDCI at 1-800-342-4029 or (615) 741-2218, or visit their website.