Property Matters

Members of the congregation are frequently faced with legal questions when they are required to consider issues related to the structure or use of their building.

• Things to consider before renting or leasing the church building
• Should our congregation have a written use agreement for occasional use of the property?
• Sample building use agreement (PDF)
• Sample building use agreement (Word)
• Renting church property for a cellular tower
• Sample cellular tower lease
• Does your congregation share space with another organization?  Consider separate incorporation.
• Renovating a church building: zoning and land use issues

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Information on this document does not constitute legal advice to anyone. In addition, the use of this document, and the sending or receipt of information through elca.org does not create attorney-client relationship of any sort. Visitors to elca.org should be aware that communication in this manner may not be considered as privileged or confidential. Individuals requiring legal assistance should engage a qualified attorney, licensed to practice law in the particular state or jurisdiction where the legal issues have arisen. Members of the ELCA, pastors, congregations, synods, and others affiliated with this church should always consult their own attorneys, accountants, or similar professionals whenever legal issues or problems arise. Neither the churchwide organization nor the general counsel is responsible for any loss, injury, liability, or damage related to your use of this document, whether from errors or omissions in the content of this document or any linked sites, from the site being down, or from any other use.