A new building or a major renovation is one of the most visible signs of a growing ministry. It's also one of the more complex projects a church takes on, often involving contractors, extended timelines, and a property that looks and functions differently than it did before.
Coverage during a building project works differently than everyday coverage, which makes it worth understanding well before the first shovel goes into the ground.
Before Construction Begins: Setting the Foundation
The planning phase is the right time to confirm how the project itself will be covered, separate from your church's standard property policy.
Ask about builder's risk coverage, which is designed specifically for property under construction
Confirm your contractor carries their own liability coverage and provide proof
Review how the project affects your existing property policy while work is underway
During Construction: Managing an Active Site
An active construction site introduces risks a finished building doesn't have: equipment, materials, and changing conditions that staff and visitors aren't used to navigating.
Clearly mark and restrict access to construction areas
Maintain regular communication with your contractor about site safety
Keep coverage under review if the project's scope or timeline changes
After Completion: Updating Coverage for the Finished Space
Once construction wraps up, coverage needs to shift again, from a policy built around an active project to one that reflects the new or renovated space as it will actually be used.
Quick Tip: Builder's risk coverage typically ends at project completion, so mark your calendar to transition to standard property coverage before that gap opens up.
Building with Confidence
A building project represents real investment and real vision for a ministry's future. Coverage that keeps pace with the project protects that investment at every stage.
1225 United supports ministries by helping leaders think through coverage from groundbreaking to completion.
If your ministry is planning a construction or renovation project, contact 1225 Program Director, Amanda Ostrowski, for supportive, ministry-centered guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is builder's risk coverage, exactly?
It's coverage designed specifically for a building or renovation project while it's under construction, separate from a standard property policy.
Does our regular property policy cover an active construction site?
Usually not fully. That's why builder's risk coverage exists, to fill that specific gap during the project.
Should we ask contractors for proof of their own coverage?
Yes, always. Confirming a contractor's liability coverage protects your ministry if an issue arises on the job site.
When does coverage shift from the project to the finished building?
Typically at project completion, so it's worth confirming that transition happens without a gap in coverage.
Does a smaller renovation need the same kind of review as new construction?
Often, yes, especially if it involves contractors or significant changes to the building. It's worth a quick check either way.
