When Insurance Won’t Renew or Hits You with a Huge Deductible: What Churches Need to Know
Insurance markets are tightening, and churches are feeling the squeeze. A recent article from The Christian Chronicle details how churches across Texas, Louisiana, and beyond are facing non-renewals or dramatic premium spikes, often paired with steep deductibles. Some congregations have seen their premiums triple, or their wind and hail coverage eliminated entirely.
In many cases, insurers are re-evaluating risk profiles of church properties—especially roof condition, age, and maintenance documentation. If your roof isn’t well maintained, it can directly affect your ability to get coverage or renew at a reasonable rate.
Top 10 Things Your Church Should Know About Its Insurance Policy (From the Roof Up)
1. Policy Renewal Isn’t Guaranteed
Your insurer can choose not to renew your policy, particularly after a year with severe storms or large industry-wide losses. Even long-time customers aren’t immune. Churches in Texas have increasingly been told their insurers are “exiting the market.”
2. Deductibles May Shift from Fixed to Percentage
Even if your premium stays the same, your deductible may suddenly be calculated as a percentage of total building value — meaning what was once a $5,000 deductible could now be $40,000 or more.
3. Aging Roofs Increase Your Risk Profile
Insurers heavily weigh the age and condition of your roof. A roof nearing the end of its life, or one that hasn’t been regularly maintained, signals risk — often leading to higher premiums or non-renewal.
4. Documentation Matters
A church that can produce detailed records of inspections, repairs, and maintenance stands out to underwriters as lower risk. Documentation can even help when appealing a non-renewal or claim denial.
5. Storm Exposure & Geography Count
Even churches outside coastal zones are seeing fallout from hail and high-wind damage across Texas. Insurers now look at your ZIP code’s storm history when pricing or renewing your policy.
6. Building Use Can Affect Premiums
If your church hosts a school, daycare, community kitchen, or frequent rentals, your insurer may classify you as a higher-use facility — raising rates. Keep your policy updated with accurate use information.
7. Coverage May Need to Be Layered
Some churches now combine policies from multiple insurers — one for property, another for wind or hail — to maintain full coverage. Talk to your agent early to avoid gaps in protection.
8. Preventative Roof Maintenance Pays Off
A proactive maintenance plan is one of the strongest arguments for coverage continuity. Regular inspections and prompt repairs show your insurer that your church manages risk responsibly.
9. Small Leaks Can Lead to Big Claims
Even minor leaks can trigger interior damage, mold growth, or electrical issues. Addressing issues early prevents costlier claims later and helps maintain insurability.
10. Work with Roofing Professionals Who Understand Churches
Choose a roofing partner familiar with church buildings, leadership structures, and insurance processes. A contractor experienced with houses of worship can help you gather documentation, communicate with insurers, and design solutions that balance stewardship and sustainability.
Preventative Maintenance: Extending the Life of Your Church Roof
Your roof is a ministry asset. With proper care, it can protect your congregation for decades. Here’s what every church should do to prolong roof life and avoid costly surprises:
Inspect twice a year (spring and fall), and after major storms
Clean gutters and drains to prevent water backup
Trim nearby trees to keep debris and branches off the roof
Check flashings, sealants, and fasteners for wear
Address small leaks immediately to avoid larger structural issues
Maintain a photo and service record — proof of stewardship for insurers
Schedule professional inspections every 3–5 years for a full assessment
A well-maintained roof is less likely to leak, more likely to pass insurance inspections, and ultimately less costly over time.
Bunton Roofing’s Experience with Churches & Insurance
At Bunton Roofing Company, we’ve worked with churches across West Texas — from historic sanctuaries to modern worship centers. We understand the unique challenges church leaders face when balancing budgets, board approvals, and insurance demands.
Here’s how we can help:
Detailed inspections that meet insurer documentation standards
Maintenance programs that extend roof life and show proof of due diligence
Clear communication with pastors, committees, and insurance adjusters
Experience with sensitive, historic, and mission-critical facilities
Repairs and restorations tailored to stewardship and longevity
When your church’s insurance policy is on the line, Bunton Roofing can help you prepare, protect, and plan for the future.
Ready to Take Action?
If your church has been hit with a high deductible or a notice of non-renewal, contact Bunton Roofing Company. We’ll help you assess your roof’s condition, build a maintenance plan, and provide the documentation insurers look for.
Serving Abilene, Texas, and the Big Country, we’re here to help your congregation stay covered — and stay dry.