Every month, we'll be shining a light on a timely topic relevant to your work as a church administrator. Whether it's a change in legislation, a seasonal event to prepare for, or a practical reminder, In Focus is here to help you stay informed and resourced in your role.
Reviewing Your Church Insurance: A Gentle Nudge for Administrators
Insurance renewal season has a way of sneaking up on church offices. One moment you're juggling rotas, room bookings, and Sunday prep; the next, a hefty policy document lands in your inbox asking for attention you barely have time to give. But taking a little space each year to review your cover and check your policy documents can save your church from significant risk and unexpected costs.
This article offers a practical reminder of some key areas worth revisiting as you assess your insurance needs:
Buildings Cover: Has Anything Changed?
Church buildings evolve over time - new extensions, refurbished kitchens, upgraded outdoor spaces. If you've made improvements or structural changes, check that these are reflected in your buildings insurance. Under‑insurance can leave you exposed if repairs or rebuilding are needed.
Asbestos Awareness
Many older church buildings contain asbestos, sometimes in places you wouldn't expect: roof voids, under flooring, or within damp‑proof courses. If you haven't had an asbestos survey, it may be time to act. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides guidance on identifying and managing asbestos safely.
Contents Cover: What's New?
Churches accumulate equipment quickly - sound systems, laptops, musical instruments, kitchen appliances, children's resources etc. Review your asset register and check whether:
New items have been added to your policy
Groups move items off-site for activities or events
You're covered for equipment taken off‑site
Cover is in place if personal items are left onsite e.g. a drum kit (This may be the individuals responsibility, check expectations)
A quick audit now can prevent headaches later.
Activities, Events, and Groups: Have You Updated Your Insurer?
Church life is wonderfully varied, but insurers need to know what you're doing. Whether you host keep‑fit classes, offer counselling, run toddler groups, or take youth trips, your insurer may require:
Confirmation that leaders are appropriately qualified
Details of off‑site activities – sometimes, each time they happen
Notification of new or unusual events
A short conversation with your provider can ensure everything is properly covered.
Cyber Security Cover
With more administration, communication and giving happening online, cyber insurance is becoming increasingly relevant. Consider whether your church would benefit from protection against data breaches, phishing attacks, or system failures.
Hirers' Public Liability Insurance
Small community groups often assume your church insurance covers them - but that's not always the case. Check whether your church/your policy requires hirers to have their own public liability insurance and consider whether you need additional cover for those who don't. If you do use hirer's cover, you may want to include some T&Cs for the hirer.
Policy Restrictions and Conditions
Some policies come with specific conditions or exclusions. Common examples include:
Baptismal tanks
Bouncy castles
Pastoral care or counselling
Make sure you understand any policy requirements so you can stay compliant and protected.
Every Church Is Unique
Historic buildings, graveyards, listed structures and specialist ministries all bring their own insurance considerations. No single checklist fits every church, this is by no means an exhaustive list, so take time to reflect on your context.
A conversation with your leadership team and your insurance provider or broker can help ensure your cover truly matches your needs.
Lastly, don't forget the UCAN Facebook Forum for Administrator and Manager level members - a great place to ask questions, share resources and find inspiration!