United Methodist Insurance Program offers tips to reduce risks at your church and keep your insurance premiums low.
Every year, churches experience losses that disrupt ministry, strain budgets, and consume valuable staff and volunteer time. While some events are unavoidable, some of the most common claims can be prevented through proactive maintenance and risk management.
Below are five of the most common claims affecting your churches today, along with simple steps that can help reduce the likelihood of a loss.
1. Water Damage - Water losses remain one of the most frequent and expensive claims for churches. Burst pipes, aging plumbing, leaking roofs, failed water heaters, and HVAC condensate lines can all result in significant damage.
Ways to reduce the risk:
- Inspect roofs and plumbing annually.
- Replace aging water heaters before they fail.
- Install automatic water shutoff devices where practical.
- Ensure HVAC condensate drains remain clear.
- Make sure that all water drains away from the building.
- Provide power back up for sump pumps.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear of ice and debris.
2. Wind and Hail Damage - Severe storms continue to drive higher insurance costs nationwide. Roofs, steeples, siding, gutters, and exterior equipment are especially vulnerable.
Ways to reduce the risk:
- Schedule annual roof inspections.
- Trim trees near buildings.
- Secure loose exterior items before storms.
- Address minor roof damage or wear before it worsens.
3. Slip, Trip, and Fall Injuries - Visitors, members, volunteers, and employees can all be injured due to uneven sidewalks, wet floors, poor lighting, and obstructed or icy walkways.
Ways to reduce the risk:
- Repair uneven pavement promptly.
- Use floor mats during wet weather.
- Improve exterior lighting.
- Maintain a documented snow and ice removal plan.
- Keep all walkways; hallways; and stairs clean, dry, and clear of obstructions or objects.
4. Volunteer Automobile Accidents - Many churches rely on volunteers to transport people or run errands. If a volunteer is involved in an accident while driving for the church, the church may still face liability.
Ways to reduce the risk:
- Verify that drivers maintain valid licenses.
- Review motor vehicle records periodically.
- Require minimum liability limits.
- Establish a written driver policy.
5. Kitchen Fires - Commercial kitchens are a tremendous ministry asset but also present significant fire hazards.
Ways to reduce the risk:
- Clean exhaust hoods regularly.
- Inspect suppression systems annually.
- Train volunteers on extinguisher use.
- Never leave cooking unattended.
Insurance is designed to help churches recover from unexpected losses—but preventing those losses is even better. Regular inspections, thoughtful maintenance, and proactive planning can significantly reduce both claims and long-term insurance costs.
If your church would like assistance reviewing your current insurance program or identifying opportunities to strengthen risk management practices, please email Jeff Koch at jkock@umins.org
From United Methodist Insurance Program