Elevator Inspections

Annual testing keeps churches up to date

State elevator codes require owners to regularly perform certified inspections for their elevators to ensure they are safe to operate. Until a couple years ago, churches were not responsible for these tests as government buildings, malls, and other public locations have been. But now, churches are considered to be open to the public and are required to comply with annual state testing regulations.

What Churches Need to Know

Every state requires that elevators be certified for safety, but not every state requires the same tests to fulfill the certification process. Consider these factors when looking into elevator inspections.

Know what you’re liable for. It’s common that inspectors require churches to assume liability for anything that may happen during testing. Talk with your insurance agent to see how you can be covered in case an inspector identifies a problem.

Shop around. Elevators are a heavily regulated technology, so it’s important to hire a company who is reputable for upholding state standards and charges a fair price.

Inspect, despite infrequent use. In an effort to save money, some churches prolong the time between inspections because their elevator is used only a handful of times during the week. It’s important to stick with the recommended inspection schedule.

Future Upgrades

Churches benefit from regular inspections not only because they fulfill a legal obligation, but because they can more easily budget for future upgrades and repairs.  

Whether an old elevator will need to be upgraded, or a part in the elevator is wearing out, knowing what needs replacing ahead of time gives churches an opportunity to save money to make the repair.  

For more information on how to maintain and update your church property, visit the Building and Property section of Brotherhood Mutual’s online Safety Library.