1. Liability insurance
A house of worship is a communal meeting place. Daily services, holidays, classes, kiddushes, simchas and youth programs bring a steady flow of people through the doors. General liability is a must, and the limits need to be sufficient for the potential liabilities that come with that many visitors.
Many congregations add an umbrella policy above general liability for higher limits.
2. Property or renters insurance
If the congregation owns its building, it needs property insurance for the structure, contents, and ideally business income or extra expense to keep operating elsewhere after a loss.
If the congregation rents, the landlord insures the building, but the congregation still needs coverage for its own contents, improvements and liability. Read the lease carefully for insurance requirements.
3. Inland marine for a Sefer Torah and valuables
A Sefer Torah, silver ornaments, an aron kodesh, artwork and other valuables can be insured on an inland marine or fine arts form, often for an agreed value and with coverage when items travel, such as when a Torah is brought to a home or another location.
Keep appraisals or documentation for each Sefer Torah and significant item.
Beyond the starting point
- Directors and officers (D&O) for the board and officers, especially for decisions about money, staff and membership.
- Abuse and molestation coverage for youth programs, classes and camps, which many liability policies exclude unless added.
- Workers’ compensation for rabbis, staff and employees, required in nearly every state.
- Employment practices liability for employee claims.
- Crime coverage for donations, dues and other funds handled by volunteers and staff.
- Special event coverage for large events held off-site.
- Hired and non-owned auto when volunteers or staff drive for the congregation.
- Cyber for member and donor information.
Every congregation is different. We’re happy to review your current policies and show you where the gaps are.