TDOT has recommended either choice lanes or a wider I-40/I-75 west of Knoxville, with public comments due November 26. A project of this size can take years, but it affects nearby homeowners and buyers long before the first bulldozer arrives. Here is how to think about insurance if you live, own or plan to buy near the corridor.
Before Construction: Check Your Coverage Now
Highway widening can mean right-of-way purchases, temporary easements and changes to drainage. If any part of your property is affected, tell your insurance agent. Changes to lot size, fencing, driveways or outbuildings can change what needs to be covered.
During Construction
- Vibration and dust: Standard homeowners policies generally cover sudden, accidental damage, not gradual cracking. Photograph your foundation and walls before work begins so you have a baseline if you need to make a claim against the contractor.
- Contractor liability: Large road projects carry their own liability coverage. Your own homeowners policy is usually not the first place to turn for construction-caused damage, but your agent can help you file correctly.
- Drainage changes: New pavement can change runoff. Surface water and flooding are typically excluded from homeowners policies, so consider flood coverage if your lot is low-lying.
If Your Property Is Taken for the Project
If a portion of your land is acquired, your mortgage lender and insurer both need to know. Dwelling and other-structures limits may need to change. See our guide on condemnation and road projects for more detail.
Business Owners Near the Corridor
Retail, restaurant and service businesses can be hurt by access changes and traffic detours. Ask about business income coverage and how a civil authority closure is treated. Standard business income coverage usually requires direct physical damage, so it often will not cover lost sales from construction alone.
Buyers and Sellers Near I-40/I-75
Noise and traffic are the main concerns for resale value, not insurance premiums. Still, buyers should get insurance quotes before closing, and sellers should keep their coverage active during listing and closing. Vacant homes can lose coverage under some policies.
Take Part in the Public Comment
If the project affects your property, comments are due November 26. Your insurance questions are best answered once you know how the project will touch your lot, so stay informed.
Talk to a Local Agent
Every property and policy is different. The team at All Seasons Insurance Group can review your coverage and explain your options. Call (865) 263-1400 or visit asigtn.com.
Buying or selling? Kings of Real Estate can help with the real estate side, and AnnieMac Home Mortgage can help with financing at (865) 518-6408.
