T.C.A. §§ 68-102-117 thru 125, establish procedures that may be used by assistants to the state commissioner of commerce and insurance (generally, fire chiefs) to cause the removal of a dangerous building or defective conditions. The expense of the repair or removal may be charged to the owner. If the owner fails to pay within 30 days, the officer may place a lien on the property for the expenses plus a 25 percent penalty. The officer must file the lien in the county register’s office to make it valid.