Terry couldn't believe her eyes. As the church administrator, she knew their budget was tight, but the new insurance premium was alarming. It had skyrocketed, forcing the church to make tough budget choices.
Terry’s situation is far from unique. Churches across Texas are facing similar struggles with insurance, dealing with more than just rising costs. Let’s explore the top five complaints that Texas churches have with their insurance policies.
Skyrocketing Premiums
One of the most common complaints from Texas churches like Terry's is the dramatic increase in insurance premiums. Churches are seeing their premiums rise year after year, often with little explanation from their insurers. These hikes can be due to storm damage, increased risks in certain areas, or shifts in how insurance companies underwrite policies. These rising costs can severely impact a church’s ability to operate, forcing leadership to choose between reducing ministry activities or paying for necessary insurance coverage.
In Terry’s case, her church was blindsided by the increase. Despite taking all the necessary steps to protect the church, they still faced a steep premium hike that strained their resources. Many churches find themselves in similar situations, wondering how to continue serving their communities when insurance costs rise unpredictably.
Solution: Work with an Experienced Independent Agent
What can churches do? Work with an experienced independent insurance agent that specializes in church policies. They can offer customized solutions to manage rising premium costs and find the best policy.
Limited Coverage Options
Another issue Texas churches face is finding coverage that truly meets their unique needs. Most insurance policies are designed for regular commercial buildings, but churches operate differently. Standard companies don't want to issue policies for churches. From hosting large events to maintaining older buildings, churches need specialized coverage. Without coverage for special events, liability for church-run programs, or protection for aging properties, churches can find themselves underinsured. Look for insurers that ask a lot of questions about what your church is doing regularly so they can provide customized coverage.
Complicated Claims Processes
When a church faces a disaster—whether it’s damage from a severe storm, a fire, or a liability claim—navigating the insurance claims process is often difficult. The claims process can be complicated, with long delays and confusing paperwork.
The last thing a church needs after an emergency is to get bogged down in insurance red tape. Understanding what information is required, how much additional costs will come out of the church's pocket, and a reasonable timeline for repairs can help in a catastrophic claim.
Solution: Partner with an Experienced Agent.
Work with an experienced church insurance agent who communicates efficiently and can help you understand what to expect when seeking coverage.
Unexpected Exclusions & Inadequate Coverage Limits
Another frustration is discovering that policies either exclude coverage or provide limited coverage for critical risks. Texas churches face a variety of natural disasters, from hurricanes and tornadoes to flooding and hailstorms. Many policies exclude or limit coverage for these events, leaving churches vulnerable. These hidden expenses can be devastating for congregations with limited budgets.
Solution: Ensure Comprehensive Coverage
Work with independent agents that clearly explain what is and isn’t covered in writing. Make sure your property coverage offers comprehensive protection.
Insufficient Customer Support
In recent years, many churches in Texas haven't found the customer support they needed. Phone calls go ignored and emails are not returned as church insurance packages have been non-renewed or canceled. Churches often don’t get the personalized service or expertise they need when working with large commercial insurance agencies. Churches are unique, and some agencies fail to offer the necessary support.
How True Texas Church Insurance Can Help
Seek out specialists who focus on churches and offer customized coverage and support. Partner with Insurance for Texans to meet your church's unique insurance needs.
Don’t let insurance headaches get in the way of your church's mission. Find the right coverage and support to continue serving your community without worry.
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