Broad Property Coverage

Functional Replacement Cost

Congregations expand and contract in size under many conditions.  Churches – buildings – however are not subject to the same kinds of change; they age, require maintenance, and sometimes are expanded.  They seldom get smaller.  In the event of a serious fire or storm, congregations may be able to take advantage of a special insurance provision referred to as “functional replacement cost.”

This term refers to a serious decision by the session in consultation with the presbytery to replace a damaged facility with a building more appropriate to the size of the congregation and current needs. Talk with CPIP staff about the requirements for adjusting your policy and reducing premium costs by scheduling your property for functional replacement coverage.

Property Evaluation Considerations

CPIP property premiums are based on the value of the property protected, considering size, type of construction, age, safety protection and related factors.  Heffernan Insurance Brokers in cooperation with affiliated agents serving CPIP member governing bodies provide a variety of resources to assist churches in establishing and reviewing appropriate evaluations.  Those resources include property appraisals by contractors in the community, by agencies with which CPIP contracts for inspections, and by a variety of other methods appropriate for each congregation.   Contact Steve Coons at CPIP for the most appropriate resources available to your congregation.

Stained Glass Windows

Stained glass windows of all sizes, shapes and conditions are common architectural features of churches in all parts of the world, and in Presbyterian churches across America.  Not everything that looks like “stained glass” really is “stained glass.”  But if it is, it is expensive to maintain, and a major extravagance to replace when damaged by wind, fire, falling trees, or baseballs.  CPIP’s inclusive property coverage provides replacement coverage for up to $500,000 for glass.  If your church has windows that have been appraised at a higher amount, please contact your agent to talk about some options for common sense protection, and affordable insurance coverage.

Pipe Organs

When congregations “make a joyful noise unto the Lord,” the music can be accompanied by many kinds of “noise makers.”  By far the favorite instrument in Presbyterian churches is an organ of one sort or another, from a small electronic keyboard to a magnificent pipe organ.  CPIP’s inclusive property coverage provides replacement coverage for organs up to $500,000 in value.  If your church’s organ is valued at a higher amount, please contact CPIP for some common sense advice about affordable insurance protection.  Be sure that when special music is required for that special occasion, you will be able to hear every joyful sound.