Due to the global pandemic, virtual worship has become our new normal. While this transition hasn’t been easy and many long for in-person worship, this time away from your church facilities could be a benefit your ministry. If your ministry is planning any construction activities, there are a few things to consider regarding your insurance during construction.
Vacant Building Coverage While your ministry worships and works virtually, make sure your facilities are properly covered under your current insurance package. Many thefts and acts of vandalism happen during renovations or extended periods of vacancy. Make sure your ministry’s resources and investments are protected while you improve your facilities.
Additional Coverages
If the renovation or construction you have planned will expose your building to the elements, you may need additional coverages. Exterior wall repairs and window or door-replacements can increase the risk of theft or damage due to weather. Minimize the risk associated with these types of repairs by contacting your insurance agent and discussing any additional coverages that may be needed for your projects.
Contractor’s Insurance
When selecting a contractor, be sure to check their credentials and request a copy of their certificate of insurance. Use the information to make an informed decision about your options and the risk involved with a construction project. Using uninsured contractors or contractors with inadequate insurance can leave your ministry liable for any damages or loss incurred during a renovation.
Potential Reductions in Premium
Contact your insurance agent and ask them if there are any potential reductions in premium you may qualify for after construction. Many insurance companies offer premium reductions for energy efficiency, roofing repairs, electrical upgrades, and other common facility repairs. Your insurance agent can help you understand what may be available for your church and take advantage of any potential savings on your policy.
When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances.
Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com.
This content has been prepared by United Methodist Insurance Company (UMI) for informational purposes only. No article or document may accurately contemplate all possible scenarios or church resources. As such, this information is meant to foster discussion by the individual church and its members to develop a plan tailored to its own circumstances. UMI is providing this information with no warranties or guarantees of any kind and it should not be viewed as legal, financial, or other professional advice. All liability is expressly disclaimed. Any claim examples described herein are general in nature, may or may not be based on actual claims, and are for informational purposes only. Any coverage available for a claim is determined from the facts and circumstances of the claim as well as the terms and conditions of any applicable policy, including any exclusions or deductibles. In the event of a conflict with the content herein, the terms and conditions of any issued policy will control. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states.
The commercial insurance coverages for United Methodist Insurance are sold and serviced directly or indirectly by Sovereign Insurance Agency (CA Lic. No. 0B01380) ("Sovereign") and underwritten by various available insurance markets. Sovereign pays United Methodist Insurance a royalty for the use of its intellectual property.
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