As vacant buildings become more common for parishes, are you keeping yours insured?

Please be aware that vacant buildings are generally excluded under a standard policy if they remain vacant or unoccupied for more than 30 days. The Diocese of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island Insurance program includes specific language to address the challenges that parishes encounter regarding their property.  It is essential to inform your Insurance Administrator or Broker if you have a vacant property to ensure that appropriate coverage is established for that property.

The language pertaining to vacant buildings is as follows:

Property at locations which to the knowledge of the Insured are vacant, unused, or shut down for more than One Hundred and Twenty (120) consecutive days for locations insured under “Class “AA”, Class “A” and/or “Class B” and unlimited vacancy for locations insured under “Class C”. (The building is considered vacant, unused or shut down when religious services cease either on a temporary or a permanent basis).  Classifications “Class “AA”, Class ”A”, “Class “B” or “Class “C” as designated for the property insured as listed in the latest Statement of Values on file with the Insurer.

Requirements with Respect to Vacant Property:

  • Report any vacant properties to your Insurance Administrator or Broker immediately.
  • Perform ongoing monitoring and physical inspections to ensure that there is no deterioration or property damage and document on a Vacancy Inspection log (see attached)
  • Secure the premises, i.e. windows and doors locked
  • Winter precautions must be performed. If you chose not to winterize your vacant property, you must continue to heat, and closely monitor this location
  • Ensure that the property is maintained and in good repair

 Please see the attached files for more information on Vacant Building Coverage, for a Vacancy Inspection Log, and Vacant Buildings Checklist.  

 

Contact Information:

Diocesan Insurance Administrator – Peter Flemming (902) 406 8991

(Peter's email)- pflemming@nspeidiocese.ca

Marsh Canada, Insurance Broker - Lynn Stone (902) 233-5883 or

Barbara McGuire (902) 476-8522

Jan 23, 2025