Is Abuse and Molestation Coverage Necessary for a Texas Church?

Host Ron Wadley explains why Texas churches need specific sexual abuse and molestation coverage. General liability typically covers accidents like slip-and-falls and excludes intentional abuse without an endorsement or standalone policy. Using a story about children’s ministry director Penny, the episode highlights that sexual misconduct policies are often written on a claims-made basis, making the retroactive date critical. Wadley also stresses the high cost of defense, recommending policies with defense costs outside policy limits so legal fees don’t reduce settlement funds. Finally, he notes carriers increasingly require risk-management procedures as conditions of coverage: mandatory background checks, annual prevention training, and a written reporting process involving appropriate contacts and law enforcement. Connect with our church insurance team at insurancefortexans.com Get a free copy of our book, The Promise of Certainty, at thepromiseofcertainty.com 00:00 Show Introduction 00:26 Why This Topic Matters 00:40 Penny’s Wake-Up Call 01:31 General Liability Myth 02:23 Occurrence vs Claims-Made 03:05 Retroactive Date Gaps 03:27 Defense Costs Explained 04:12 Risk Management Requirements 04:59 Next Steps and Resources 05:24 Final Stewardship Reminder