Congregational reveals top church insurance claims

A report published ahead of the Christian Resources Exhibition (CRE) in Harrogate later this month has revealed the top five insurance claims suffered by churches in the UK.

The review published by church insurer Congregational & General for CRE Harrogate this month indicates that approximately one in six churches in the UK claimed on their insurance policies over the last 12 months - amounting to an estimated £24.3m worth of loss or damage nationwide.

Top of the list of claims by value, excluding weather related incidents are those caused by theft of lead and other metals - this was the fastest-growing area for claims with Congregational experiencing an 86 per cent increase in 2007 - rising by a further 57 per cent this year. Second position was arson claims and theft from the open coming in third.

The insurer believes that churches can minimise some of the risk by taking precautionary measures such as those featured in its free 'Safer Places of Worship' and 'Church Alert' schemes.

Margaret Slater, Congregational's Marketing Manager, said: "We believe a significant number of churches across the UK could reduce or in some cases eliminate their claims by taking some relatively simple preventative steps and reduce the burden of premium increases in the future."

Congregational will be exhibiting at the CRE from 25 to 27 September and giving free guidance showing churches how they can reduce risk and help prevent some instances of loss or damage.

In all cases, as well as taking proactive measures to safeguard their church buildings, Congregational advises churches to enlist the help of local communities and encourage them to report suspicious behaviour.

Congregational & General'sTop Claims in the last 12 months (excluding weather related claims) and key prevention tips for places of worship:



1. Theft of lead and other metals

Lead and other metal thefts from church buildings is an increasing problem.

Congregational & General advises:

Consider the use of forensic markers and anti-theft paint
Strategically placed lighting

Carefully chosen defensive planting of thorny bushes in and around church grounds

2. Arson

Fires are often started maliciously using materials readily available at or near the scene.

Congregational & General advises:

Regularly check security arrangements for church premises are still suitable and adequate

Limit the fuel that may be available on and around the site such as gas cylinders, flammable liquids and combustible materials (these should be safely locked away)

3. Theft from the open

Theft from the open includes items such as lawnmowers and garden tools that are often left unattended outside.

Congregational & General advises:

Encourage visitors to use only designated entrances and footpaths
Maintain a substantial perimeter barrier for a more orderly surrounding area

4. Malicious damage

Churches experience a high amount of malicious damage to their property, especially those that are unoccupied for most of the week.

Congregational & General advises:

Surveillance by passers-by and local residents should be encouraged by ensuring that hedges and walls are no more than four feet higher than the level of adjoining roads and paths

5. Fire

Fire damage is often caused by old wiring and badly maintained appliances, which can be easily avoided.

Congregational & General advises:

Ensure that the fixed electrical installation is inspected and tested every five years

Good housekeeping and safe end of day procedures should be adopted to ensure that all electrical equipment is switched off


On the web: www.spow.co.uk www.churchalert.co.uk/