Church insurance is designed to cover the unique risks churches face, including congregation activities, valuable religious items, and community service spaces. Here’s an overview of the essential coverages for church insurance:

1. Building and Property Insurance

• Purpose: Protects the physical structure of the church from risks like fire, storms, theft, and vandalism.
• Coverage: Includes repair or rebuilding costs for structures like the sanctuary, fellowship hall, and steeple.
• Considerations: Churches with historical or architectural significance may need specialized coverage for restoration of unique features, stained glass windows, or intricate woodwork.

2. Contents and Religious Artifacts Insurance

• Purpose: Covers items within the church, such as furniture, pews, religious items, audio-visual equipment, musical instruments, and office equipment.
• Coverage: Replacement or repair costs for stolen, lost, or damaged items.
• Special Note: Religious artifacts or valuable items, like stained glass windows, chalices, or historic Bibles, may require a specific valuation and additional coverage for repair or replacement.

3. Public Liability Insurance

• Purpose: Protects the church from claims if a visitor or worshipper is injured on the property or if their belongings are damaged.
• Coverage: Compensation, medical expenses, and legal fees for injury or property damage claims.
• Recommended Limit: Usually ranges from $1 million to $5 million, based on the church’s size and visitor frequency.

4. Employer’s Liability Insurance

• Purpose: Required if the church has paid or volunteer staff, covering claims related to workplace injuries or illnesses.
• Coverage: Medical costs, legal fees, and compensation if an employee or volunteer is injured while working.
• Legal Requirement: Typically required by law if there are employees, even if they’re unpaid volunteers.