We have a problem with our church building

PCCs must check which List category proposed works will come under, therefore, contact should be made with the Church Buildings Team for advice before any work commences.

PCCs should not place any orders or pay deposits for any work until the required Permission/Faculty from the Diocese has been given.

For repairs and improvements, PCCs will need to ensure that they have in place PCC resolutions for works.

Have a problem with the building – if you have an issue with the church, then you can follow the process chart for actions that need to be taken.

Emergency permission – if you have an emergency with the church building, then you can follow the process chart below for actions that need to be taken.

Finding help and support – the Church Buildings Team would be able to arrange an inspection with you to provide guidance on defects and repair matters.

Other information about church buildings can be found here

Contact the Church Buildings team for help and advice

Emergency permission

Access the Emergency permission process chart here

Liaising with Contractors

When instructing contractors, due diligence should be carried out so below are some main points to consider:

Have you used them before?
How will you instruct them – by email, letter, formal building contract and specific conditions
Checking registrations/affiliations with trade/professional organisations
Type of work being done
Duration of work
Value of work being instructed
Ensuring adequate resources are available to carry out the required work
Examples/case studies of similar works
Current insurance and confirmation of cover to work on church buildings
Able to provide regular progress and completion reports, including before and after photographs

Scaffolding and Access Equipment

Is scaffolding or other access equipment required for the works? Contractors need to apply to local authority for the placing of scaffolding and access equipment on public highways – roads, pavements, pathways. Do you need permission from neighbours for access and the placing of scaffolding/equipment on their land/property? Notification to church insurers and ensuring any specific requirements are implemented, also updating on progress and completion of works