Ansvar is one of the leading insurers for the charity, faith and not-for-profit sectors. Here they share the top three charity insurances claims they received in 2024 and their tips on how charities can mitigate against those risks.

Accidental Damage

Accidental damage relates to claims for damage to items or property that were caused by an unforeseen event and not a deliberate act. For example, dropping a laptop that damages it beyond repair or having a football accidentally kicked through your office window, breaking the glass.

As these types of damage are caused by accident, you can’t mitigate against them. However, considering it was one of the highest claims in 2024, it is a good reminder of the need for accidental damage cover in your insurance policy.

Theft

The theft of valuable items, such as laptops, smartphones or vehicles, not only present financial losses, but can also disrupt a charity’s day-to-day activities. Depending on how the property was stolen, the incident may also be distressing to staff and volunteers.

Ways to mitigate the risk of theft

• Review how effective your current security measures are. This could include checking how sturdy and secure your locks are, whether your alarms are functioning, and whether you need to have access control systems installed. If you have CCTV, review footage regularly to check everything is functioning correctly and the camera is in the correct position.
• Install CCTV. If you don’t have CCTV cameras, or even dummy cameras, consider installing them. They can act as a strong deterrent to potential criminals. The cameras should be prominent and visible, and signs should be put up to inform people that there is CCTV present.
• Secure and store valuable items. High value items, such as a laptop or filming equipment, should be stored away when not in use. If your charity provides laptops in the office to staff, provide lockers or drawers that can be locked so that they can be safely stored overnight.
• Train staff to be security aware. Identify the training needed to help staff and volunteers be more security aware. There should also be regular reminders on the importance of locking windows and doors when leaving the building, locking away laptops, being vigilant about anyone who is in the building that is not staff etc. Staff should also know what the process is should theft occur and how to report it.

Escape of Water (water leaks)

The risk of water leaks is increasing as our way of life becomes more modern. We have more white goods on our premises, such as dishwashers, fridges, and freezers that could potentially cause leaks. As well as white goods, leaks could be caused by pipes and plumbing.

Ways to mitigate the escape of water

• Routinely inspect your pipes. Keep on top of simple maintenance jobs like fixing dripping taps and investigate leaks and damp patches at the earliest opportunity. Arrange for your pipes to be inspected and maintained at least annually.
• Know where your stopcock is. In the event of a major leak or a burst pipe, it’s important to turn off the water at the source to prevent further water damage. You can do this by turning off the stopcock (also known as a ‘water mains tap’). Stopcocks are usually located under a kitchen sink, but it may also be in a utility room or cupboard. You can use location labels, to highlight where they are in the event of an emergency. Check them from time to time to ensure they are operating properly.
• Install a froststat (frost thermostat). If you have exposed pipework that is at risk of freezing, install a froststat to your heating system. This will keep your heating system from dropping below a certain temperature, therefore preventing the pipes from freezing and bursting.

Ansvar offers a host of comprehensive insurance products for charities and faith organisations. Visit their website to find out more  or speak to your insurance broker about your insurance needs.