It is essential that before the premises are hired out, it has to be agreed that the place is suitable for the purpose of proposed use. If part of the premises is leased to a third party for additional parking, appropriate rights of way must be described and it must be agreed between both organisations that the paving and parking areas are in a suitable condition.
If the premises are to be used by a mother and toddler group, which is not associated with the church, again the condition of the flooring, furniture and other equipment must be agreed by both organisations as suitable for the purpose.
Hire agreements
Appropriate hire agreements must be in place between the various organisations in order to ensure that your place of worship does not pick up the liabilities of another organisation. It is essential that the users of the building (hirers), have their own liability insurance in place and copies are held by the place of worship.
Consideration must be given as to whose health and safety policies and risk assessments are to be used and whether they are extensive enough for the activities that are to be undertaken. Most specialist contractors are likely to have their own, however, other organisations may rely on yours being adequate for their activities.
Suitably drafted risk assessments from the hirer, if appropriate, should be requested.
Responsibilities
Agree with the hirer who is responsible for snow clearing/gritting and turning on outside lights in bad weather/when it's dark – if the hirer won’t do it a church member should.
Public liability insurance
This can be provided by Congregational Insurance, at the request of insured churches, for use by charities, voluntary organisations, groups and individuals using the premises for non-profit making purposes when hired to them.
Contact the church department on 01274 700 700 for more information.