The Parish Self-Inspection Guide has been prepared to assist you with performing self-inspections of your facilities. The intent of this guide is to help you identify common hazards and the means to correct them.
Each year we receive numerous calls to report downed trees following a severe storm. It is important to keep in mind that property insurance coverage does not extend to the removal of downed trees in the open. The only time coverage may be available for downed tree removal is when the tree actually falls and causes damage to a covered structure such as a rectory, school or church building. Removing downed or compromised trees can be quite costly. Therefore, a comprehensive tree care plan can help reduce your organization’s exposure to an uninsured expense.
As a parish, school or institution, you are responsible for maintaining your property in a reasonably safe condition. Failure to do so could expose your location to liability for both bodily injury and property damage. If your location has knowledgeable staff with the expertise to repair potholes, encourage them to be proactive in looking for and repairing potholes as soon as they are noticed. You may also contract with a paving company to do the job. There are numerous such companies around.