Tennessee

What Tennessee Bonds Are Required?

There are three broad categories of surety bonds: license and permit bonds, contractor bonds, or court bonds.

Tennessee License & Permit Bonds

Most license and permit bonds are mandated by a state agency, but some are a requirement of a particular city or municipality. These bonds are typically a condition of applying for or renewing a license or permit to operate within the state of Tennessee or a specific local jurisdiction. They protect the public by guaranteeing that the licensed individual or business will operate in accordance with state law.

Here are some examples of Tennessee agencies that require license and permit bonds:

• Tennessee Department of Revenue, which licenses businesses that sell alcohol for consumption on the premises; manufacture, sell, and warehouse beer; sell tobacco products; or sell petroleum products and alternate fuels
• Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, which licenses health clubs, title insurance companies, public adjustors, manufacturers of modular buildings, home improvement contractors, fire protection contractors, and collection agencies
• Tennessee Department of Agriculture, which licenses businesses involved in pest control

Examples of municipalities that require license and permit bonds include: Hendersonville (residential contractors), Knoxville (electrical contractors), Shelby County (public officials), Memphis (cement workers), Cookeville (hot dog vendors), Franklin (professional fundraisers), and Nashville (solicitors).

Contractor Bonds

Tennessee contractors must obtain a payment bond in order to be awarded contracts for public works projects. These bonds ensure payment for materials and labor. The bond amount must be at least 25% of the total contract price. A performance bond may also be required.

Court Bonds

Courts in Tennessee may require people appealing a court decision to obtain a surety bond. This guarantees payment of damage awards, court costs, and legal fees. Courts may also require people serving as an estate administrator, guardian, conservator, or other fiduciary role to obtain a bond. This serves as a guarantee that they will act in accordance with the law.

Surety Bond Costs

The two factors that determine the cost of a surety bond are the dollar amount of the bond and the premium rate. The premium rate is based on the applicant’s credit history and can range from 1% to 15%. The better the applicant’s credit, the lower the rate. The bond amount is multiplied by the premium rate to determine the bond cost.

What Happens When A Claim Is Filed?

A claim can be filed against your bond for non-performance or any violation of the terms of the bond. If the claim is found to be valid, the surety company will pay it, then seek repayment from you. You have the right to defend yourself in the event of a claim, so be sure to keep adequate records.

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Our online application system makes it easy to apply for wide range of Tennessee surety bonds. We offer quick turnarounds, often 24 hours or less.

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