NASHVILLE, TN (WGNS) - The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance says more than $15.67 million was returned to Tennesseans in 2025 through mediation and restitution—money that often represents months of frustration for families trying to get insurance companies to honor their policies. And nowhere has that frustration been more visible than in Middle Tennessee, especially Rutherford County, where Winter Storm Fern left thousands dealing with frozen pipes, roof damage, and long repair delays.
Since 2020, TDCI’s Consumer Insurance Services team has returned over $80 million to consumers statewide. But the volume of complaints coming from Middle Tennessee has grown sharply. The department handled 5,199 complaints in 2025, and more than 940 complaints have already been filed in 2026—many tied directly to Fern’s impact on Murfreesboro, Smyrna, La Vergne, and surrounding communities.
Commissioner Carter Lawrence said he’s proud of the team’s work, especially during a year when so many Middle Tennessee families were navigating storm damage and slow-moving claims. He encouraged residents who feel stuck or ignored by their insurance company to reach out. “Our team is here to help put money back into the pockets of hard‑working Tennesseans,” he said.
The most common complaints statewide—and especially in Rutherford County—continue to be claim delays, denials, and low settlement offers. Deputy Commissioner Bill Huddleston said Fern is a reminder of how quickly severe weather can upend daily life in Middle Tennessee. He urged families to take a fresh look at their coverage now, before the next round of storms.
TDCI shared several reminders for homeowners and renters across the region:
- Read your policy closely, including exclusions. Many storm‑related issues must be “sudden and accidental” to qualify for coverage.
- Make sure your coverage limits match today’s property values—especially important in fast‑growing Rutherford County, where home prices have climbed sharply.
- Remember that standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage; only a separate flood policy does.
- Verify that your agent and insurance company are licensed in Tennessee.
- Keep digital records—photos, receipts, and inventories—to make future claims easier.
- Work with a licensed agent when purchasing life insurance, since policies often require personalization.
As Middle Tennessee continues repairing roofs, replacing drywall, and navigating insurance paperwork, Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance says its doors remain open to help families get the coverage they’ve paid for.
