Church and asset insurance
From 17 November 2025, the management of the Church of Scotland Insurance Scheme will transfer from General Trustees' Insurance Scheme to Howden UK Brokers Limited. This change affects the administration of insurance cover for all Church properties, including manses, halls, ancillary buildings, glebes, and their associated liabilities.
The overall cover provided by the scheme will remain in place, but administration and claims handling will be managed by Howden from this date.
What This Means for You
Managing your insurance policy
As Church Scheme policies are written in the name of the congregation, they must continue to meet their obligations as the insured under the policy. This includes declaring information to the insurer via Howden and in providing accurate information in respect of a claim. Whilst the General Trustee retain a relationship with Howden, it is at a high level to try and make sure that the Church Insurance Scheme continues to operate in the best interests of the Church. There should therefore be no assumption that any part of the central administration of the Church is passing information regarding any individual congregation to Howden such that it might impact on the need for a congregation's to take action in respect of their obligation under their insurance policy.
Direct Debit Payments
If you currently pay General Trustees' Insurance Scheme by Direct Debit:
Continue your payments as normal; there is no need to set up a new mandate. At your next renewal or in the event of a mid-term adjustment Howden may ask you to complete a new mandate.
If you are uncertain about your payment arrangements or have questions, please contact us as soon as possible.
SmartWater Theft Protection
Cover for external metal theft (such as lead or copper roofing) may require a forensic marking system such as SmartWater.
As the scheme moves to Howden, please contact Howden UK Brokers Limited confirm what protection measures are required and ensure your cover remains valid.
Empty Church Buildings
Where properties are already empty or unused you should already have advised your insurer. If for any reason this is not the case please contact Howden immediately. Additional conditions (such as regular inspections or security measures) may apply to ensure cover remains valid.
Use of Church Buildings
Insurance cover applies primarily to church-related activities. If your buildings are used for community events, outside groups, or rentals, outside of what would traditionally be the norm for church buildings you must ensure these uses are declared and approved, as they may affect your insurance terms.
Making a Claim or Getting Support
From 17 November 2025, all claims and general insurance queries will be managed by Howden. Howden will invite renewals from January 2026 onwards.
Visit the Howden UK Brokers Limited page
If you have questions before the transfer date, please continue to contact General Trustees' Insurance Scheme through the usual channels.
Resources and Guidance available from the General Trustees that might have some bearing on insurance
- Health and Safety Toolkit and Advice
- Fire Risk Assessment: Guidance for Congregations
- Electrical Inspection and PAT Testing
- Dormitory Accommodation Safety Guidance
- Glebes Insurance
These resources provide practical advice to help you meet safety obligations and maintain insurance cover.