Buying church insurance for the first time can feel overwhelming. Here are 5 facts that should help clear up any of your confusion.

As a pastor, your church is much more than a building. It’s a community of people who come together in a comfortable and safe environment. Your duty is to maintain a place that is safe and welcoming for everyone.

In the event of a natural disaster or unforeseen accident, insurance can help in a time of need.

To protect your place of worship, having church insurance is helpful. This will give you the peace of mind that your property is protected. During the worst of times, the community will turn to your church for solace.

But, before purchasing insurance coverage, there are some things to know. Keep reading to learn 5 must know things about church insurance.

1. Know What Coverage is Needed

Just like other types of insurance, church insurance offers a variety of options. This size of your church determines if comprehensive or specialized coverage is needed.

The coverage you choose needs to protect worshipers, employees, as well as the church and its assets.

For well-rounded coverage, choose a plan that includes property, liability, and employee insurance.

2. Property Insurance

Property insurance covers the actual church building. It also covers items that belong to the church. This insurance can cover high-value items such as:

  • Paintings
  • Statues
  • Stained glass
  • Religious books
  • Musical instruments

Did you know that pipe organs cost at least $30,000? In the event of a fire damage or vandalism, you want your valuable assets to be covered.

Premiums for property coverage depend on the size and year of construction. Insurers will also consider the location of the church.

3. Liability

This insurance protects you against financial risks. Liability covers damage caused by the church to other people or property. It also defends the church in legal proceedings.

Churches aren’t immune to lawsuits. In the event of a lawsuit, general liability insurance is a must.

If someone is injured at your church, this policy provides insurance for the claim. Accidents such as slipping and falling can happen and you want to be covered!

4. Employee Insurance

No matter if you have full time or part time employees, employee insurance is a must. Even if your state doesn’t have a legal requirement, consider adding this coverage to your plan.

Employee insurance covers items such as:

5. Special Coverage

As a pastor, you want to ensure that your church is protected in every aspect possible. When considering an insurance plan, lesser known policies can be useful.

For example, employee practices liability insurance (EPL) protects you in the event of an accusation. If someone were to accuse the church of discrimination or sexual harassment, EPL can help with these claims.

Other lesser known insurances include:

  • Special event coverage
  • Flood insurance
  • Mission coverage
  • Large claim insurance

Reliable Church Insurance

As a pastor, you always want to make guided decisions for yourself and your congregation. To protect your community, insurance coverage is a must.

At Terry Brown Insurance, our team specializes in providing coverage for churches. With more than 30 years of experience, you can depend on us to protect your church.

Contact our team today to learn about coverage options.