Churches, like any other buildings, require maintenance and occasional repairs. Whether it’s minor repairs like fixing leaks or repainting walls, or major renovations like roof replacement or structural work, choosing the right contractor is essential.
Many churches make the mistake of hiring “a friend of the church” or skipping the process of getting multiple bids, assuming good intentions will ensure good work. However, this can lead to legal risks, financial losses, and subpar results if things go wrong.
This guide will help churches understand what to look for in a contractor, why informal agreements are risky, and how to ensure repairs are completed professionally and on budget.
Why Churches Must Be Cautious When Hiring a Contractor
Churches often operate with tight budgets and rely on volunteers or trusted members for help. While this works for simple tasks like painting or yard work, major repairs require licensed professionals to protect the church from financial and legal trouble.
The Dangers of Hiring a “Friend of the Church”
❌ No Formal Contract = No Legal Protection – If the job is unfinished or done poorly, the church has no recourse.
❌ Potential Liability Issues – If the contractor is uninsured and gets injured, the church could be held responsible.
❌ Lack of Competitive Pricing – Without multiple quotes, the church may overpay or get subpar work.
❌ Strained Relationships – If issues arise, it creates tension within the church if the contractor is a member or friend.
❌ Building Code Violations – If a repair isn’t done to code, the church may fail inspections or risk fines.
Why Churches Must Get Multiple Quotes
✅ Ensures competitive pricing and prevents overpaying.
✅ Gives the church options in case a contractor is unavailable or unreliable.
✅ Encourages higher quality work as contractors know they are being compared.
✅ Helps identify hidden fees that may not be obvious in a single bid.
➡ Bottom Line: A church should always treat repairs and renovations like a business decision, not a favor.
Essential Considerations When Hiring a Contractor
When searching for a contractor, look for one that meets the following key qualifications.
1. Proper Licensing & Insurance (Non-Negotiable)
Any contractor working on a church must have:
✅ A valid business license in your state.
✅ Liability insurance (protects against damage or injury).
✅ Workers’ compensation insurance (prevents the church from being liable for on-site injuries).
➡ Ask for proof of these documents before hiring.
2. Experience with Church or Commercial Projects
Church buildings have unique needs—historic buildings, high ceilings, special zoning laws, and large public spaces. Choose a contractor who has experience with:
✅ Commercial or nonprofit work rather than just residential projects.
✅ ADA compliance if renovations involve restrooms, ramps, or accessibility upgrades.
✅ Historic preservation if the church is an older structure.
➡ Ask for references from other churches or organizations.
3. Detailed Written Estimates & Contracts
Before signing anything, the contractor should provide:
✅ A written estimate with a clear breakdown of costs (labor, materials, permits, timeline).
✅ A formal contract that includes payment terms, completion deadlines, and warranty information.
✅ A clear project scope outlining what work will (and won’t) be done.
➡ Never rely on verbal agreements. Everything must be in writing.
4. Warranty & Follow-Up Support
Reliable contractors stand behind their work and offer:
✅ A warranty on repairs or installations.
✅ Follow-up inspections to ensure work holds up over time.
✅ A clear policy on fixing issues that arise after the job is done.
➡ Ask what happens if problems occur after completion.
5. Payment Terms & Avoiding Scams
Churches should never:
❌ Pay in full upfront – Most reputable contractors require only a deposit (10-30%) before starting work.
❌ Make cash payments – Always use checks or digital transactions for clear records.
❌ Sign a blank or vague contract – Ensure every detail is spelled out.
➡ If a contractor demands full payment upfront or refuses a written contract, walk away.
When to Hire a Professional vs. Using Volunteers
| Task | Volunteers Can Handle? | Requires a Professional? |
|---|---|---|
| Painting walls, basic landscaping | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Cleaning gutters, minor maintenance | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Electrical work, major plumbing repairs | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Roof repairs, HVAC servicing | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Large-scale renovations (structural, foundation, etc.) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Fire system, sprinkler maintenance | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
➡ Volunteers can assist with minor tasks, but licensed professionals should handle structural, electrical, plumbing, and safety-related repairs.
How to Compare Bids & Choose the Best Contractor
Step 1: Get at Least 3 Bids
Reach out to three or more contractors to compare prices, services, and timelines.
Step 2: Check Reviews & References
- Look up reviews on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
- Call other churches that have worked with the contractor.
- Ask to see photos of previous projects.
Step 3: Review the Contract Carefully
Before signing, confirm:
✅ Scope of work (What exactly will be done?)
✅ Total cost & payment schedule
✅ Start and completion dates
✅ Who is responsible for permits & inspections?
✅ Warranties & follow-up policies
➡ If something seems unclear, ask questions before signing.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
🚨 The contractor won’t provide a written estimate.
🚨 They ask for full payment before work begins.
🚨 They refuse to show proof of insurance or a business license.
🚨 They pressure the church into a fast decision.
🚨 They offer a suspiciously low bid compared to others.
➡ If a contractor shows any of these red flags, find someone else.
Final Thoughts
Church repairs and renovations are a significant investment that should be handled with professionalism and due diligence. While it may be tempting to hire a “friend of the church”, doing so without a contract, licensing, or proper bids puts the church at serious risk.
✅ Always get multiple quotes to ensure fair pricing.
✅ Only hire licensed, insured professionals for major work.
✅ Require a detailed written contract before starting.
✅ Never pay in full upfront or in cash.
By treating church repairs like a business decision, you protect the church financially, legally, and structurally while ensuring high-quality, long-lasting work.