Canada
Ireland
Frequently asked questions
We normally require central heating systems to be drained down. However, please contact us to discuss the reasons you wish to leave your heating on, as exceptions may be made.
If water systems cannot be isolated and drained, there will be certain conditions you must meet.
If you are keeping the heating on, you must maintain the central heating system to prevent freezing and:
- The system should be inspected to ensure it operates correctly.
- The temperature throughout the building must be maintained at no less than 7 degrees Centigrade (45 degrees Fahrenheit).
- The system must be serviced and maintained annually by a qualified engineer.
Maintaining a visible presence at the church gives the appearance of the church being in some form of use. Regular inspections also give you the opportunity to identify an issue.
Yes. We actively encourage you to bring the church back into use. You must contact us to let us know how you will use the building. The policy cover, terms, and premium may need to be changed to reflect this.
The biggest risk for unoccupied properties is fire, including arson. Storing combustible items in the church can increase the risk of fire spreading and make it a target for break-ins and theft.
We appreciate that the building may have only been used for a while. However, when the property is not in use permanently, the general maintenance of the building may be reduced. Unoccupied buildings are more likely to be targeted for vandalism and malicious damage.
Unoccupied properties are more susceptible to damage through arson, crime, and squatters. The premium must reflect this increased risk. You can reduce the premium by reducing the sum insured, taking a higher excess, or bringing the property back into use.
If you cannot comply with the inspection frequency, please contact us to discuss your options.
Please be advised that church halls do not follow the same criteria for closure or redundancy. Where there is no more use of the building, the PCC would usually remain responsible for the church hall until a sale is completed.
If the building is going to be unoccupied for some time before the start of or following the completion of building works, please get in touch with us. It may be necessary for us to amend your cover.
Not all churches that need to close for a while will follow the same process. For example, you may have a property undergoing building works that will not be used in that period for worship. In this situation, we would ask you to contact us to discuss your situation with one of our expert team members, who can talk to you about your options.