One in six churches victim of theft or arson

(19/09/2008)

The latest review published by Congregational & General 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% increase in 2007 – rising by a further 57% 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 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.

“We will be showcasing two free schemes at CRE – anyone who visits our stand can pick up guidance which we hope will not just make our churches safer places, but also help prevent some instances of loss or damage.”

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

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

1. Theft of lead and other metals
Lead and other metal thefts from church buildings is an increasing problem.

Churches should consider the use of forensic markers and anti-theft paint, strategically placed lighting, and 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.

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.

Visitors should be encouraged to use only designated entrances and footpaths. Also, 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.

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.

The fixed electrical installation should be 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.

Related topics:  Detection systems   Fire detection and alarm   Security guarding   Sensors and detectors 

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