Annual Church Insurance Review Checklist | Church Insurance Man

As the calendar turns and a new year begins, many churches look for ways to strengthen their ministries, plan upcoming events, and set fresh goals. This season of reflection is also a good time to review your church’s insurance coverage. At Church Insurance Man, we understand that churches grow, programs evolve, and property changes over time. An annual review ensures that your coverage continues to support the work your church is called to do.

Insurance is not something to set aside and forget. As ministries expand and responsibilities shift, policies must keep pace. The start of a new year provides a natural moment to take inventory of your property, people, activities, and upcoming plans. A thoughtful evaluation helps your church stay protected, prepared, and confident as it enters the year ahead.

Why an Annual Review Is Beneficial

Churches are often surprised by how much can change in a single year. New ministries launch, outreach programs grow, buildings are renovated, and staff roles evolve. Without updated insurance, a church may unknowingly carry coverage that no longer reflects its true needs.

An annual review gives church leaders the chance to update their policies before gaps turn into potential problems. This simple step helps prevent financial strain after a loss, protects people who serve, and ensures compliance with Georgia requirements. With a clear understanding of your current coverage and future plans, your ministry can move forward feeling secure.

Review Changes in Ministry Activities

Church programs are dynamic, and many churches introduce new events or expand existing ministries throughout the year.

New Programs and Outreach Initiatives

If your church launched new ministries last year, such as youth activities, community service days, or seasonal events, it is important to confirm that your insurance reflects those additions. Activities that involve travel, food service, large gatherings, or new equipment may require updated liability coverage, special event endorsements, or auto protection.

Growth in Attendance or Volunteer Involvement

Churches that saw increased attendance or expanded volunteer teams should also take note. Larger congregations and growing teams can affect the amount of liability coverage your church needs. Reviewing attendance trends helps ensure coverage limits remain adequate as your ministry grows.

Reevaluate Church Staff and Volunteer Roles

Changes in staffing or volunteer responsibilities can influence several types of coverage.

Paid Staff Additions or Position Changes

If your church added new employees, expanded part-time roles, or updated job descriptions, you may need to adjust workers’ compensation, pastoral liability, or employment practices coverage. Even small staffing changes can impact the policies that protect your team.

Volunteer Responsibilities

Volunteers often serve in a wide variety of roles. When responsibilities shift or volunteers begin assisting with tasks that involve driving, childcare, or equipment use, it is essential to confirm that adequate liability protection is in place. Volunteer accident coverage can also help provide medical benefits if a volunteer is injured while serving.

Examine Church Property and Equipment Updates

Church property often changes more than expected within a year. Even small updates can influence the value of your buildings and their contents.

Building Renovations or Additions

Updates such as remodeled sanctuaries, new classrooms, kitchen renovations, or expanded office space should be reported to your insurance provider. Property values must be updated to avoid being underinsured. If your church made upgrades to HVAC systems, roofs, or security technology, those details should be included as well.

New Equipment and Technology

Many churches invest in new tools that support ministry, such as livestream technology, upgraded sound systems, office computers, kitchen appliances, or new vehicles. These items can significantly increase the value of your insured property and should be listed in your policy.

Review Liability Coverage Limits

Liability protection is one of the most important components of a church insurance program. It helps cover injuries, property damage, and legal expenses that could occur during ministry activities.

General liability limits should match your church’s congregation size, number of events, and current ministries. Churches that offer counseling, host large events, or oversee youth programs may also want to review their professional liability and abuse and misconduct coverage. Ensuring adequate limits is a key step in protecting your church from unexpected financial challenges.

Assess Auto-Related Needs

Many churches rely on vehicles for transportation, deliveries, or trips to mission sites. Auto-related insurance needs should be reviewed annually.

If your church owns vehicles, confirm that they are properly insured and that all approved drivers have safe driving records. For volunteers or staff who use personal vehicles for ministry tasks, hired and non-owned auto coverage provides essential protection. This coverage helps safeguard your church and drivers if an accident occurs while serving.

Consider Special Coverages for the Year Ahead

As your church prepares for the new year, take time to consider additional coverage options based on upcoming plans.

Cyber liability coverage is increasingly important as churches use digital tools for online giving, membership management, and communication. If your church is planning special events like Easter programs, fall festivals, or holiday gatherings, short-term event coverage may be beneficial. Churches that anticipate regional or international mission trips may need travel insurance for team members and equipment.

Confirm Documentation and Risk Prevention Practices

Insurance is most effective when paired with strong safety practices. Churches should review their policies and procedures at least once a year.

Updating safety manuals, volunteer training protocols, and facility inspection checklists helps improve overall protection. Maintaining incident reports and documented safety measures also supports your church if questions should arise after an accident.

For churches that partner with outside organizations or rent their spaces, reviewing partnership agreements and confirming that vendors carry proper insurance is a beneficial annual task.

Schedule an Annual Review With Church Insurance Man

At Church Insurance Man, we specialize in helping churches navigate their coverage with confidence. An annual review is more than a checklist. It is an opportunity to ask questions, discuss upcoming plans, and adjust your policies to reflect your ministry’s needs.

We evaluate your property, ministries, staff, volunteers, and upcoming events to ensure your coverage stays current. Our team provides clear guidance and personalized recommendations, supporting your church throughout the year.

Start the New Year With Confident Coverage

Your church’s ministry deserves protection that grows with you. An annual review ensures that every part of your ministry is supported by the right coverage, from your buildings to your volunteers to your outreach efforts.

If your church has not completed an insurance review recently, now is the perfect time. Contact Church Insurance Man at 470-375-8274 or visit our website to schedule a free, no-obligation insurance review and proposal. We are here to help your church enter the new year with clarity, confidence, and complete protection.