New Insurance Coverage Addresses Liability Risks for Volunteer Church Security
Rockwood Programs has launched a new insurance product designed to offer liability protection for volunteer security teams at houses of worship. This coverage is purchased by the sponsoring church and will provide legal defense and indemnity for civil actions brought against these volunteers.
The policy provides liability limits of up to $300,000 per security team member, with a $1 million aggregate policy limit. There is no deductible, and the coverage can be extended to include services held at satellite locations. Claims administration will be handled by Wilson Elser, an international law firm. Policyholders will also have access to a legal hotline staffed by attorneys with expertise in liability issues.
“The number of security-related incidents at houses of worship has risen significantly,” said Glenn W. Clark, CPCU, president of Rockwood Programs. He cited over 430 reported incidents in 2023, more than double the previous year’s count and representing an 800% increase since 2018.
Clark noted the increasing reliance of churches on congregants for security, with studies indicating that approximately four in five US Protestant pastors have implemented detailed security plans. Notably, 54% of these plans incorporate armed congregants within their security strategies.
Traditional insurance policies often do not extend coverage to non-professional security teams. According to Clark, this lack of coverage leaves volunteers exposed to personal liability in the event they are required to respond to an incident. The Volunteer Church Security policies are underwritten by Fortegra member companies, which hold an A- (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best.
This new offering from Rockwood Programs comes at a time when liability coverage for churches and other religious organizations is under scrutiny. The Diocese of Trenton recently filed a lawsuit against Chubb and its subsidiaries, along with other insurers, alleging the refusal to pay claims related to sexual abuse cases filed under the New Jersey Child Victims Act. Chubb countered that its refusal was justified, citing that “insurance covers accidents – not intentional, unconscionable, and knowing misconduct.” This ongoing legal battle highlights the ongoing discussion around what is covered by these types of liability policies and where some insurers will draw the line.
