441 Housing provisions for ministers

441.1 Introduction

Where a Cooperative Venture is involved in a new building programme it is important to be in touch with the denominational authorities concerned in the initial stages so the full requirements can be planned, in many cases minimum room sizes being laid down.  These guidelines summarise information supplied by all the negotiating Partners and while in some instances refer particularly to dwellings being planned are also a guide to requirements for existing residences.

441.2 General requirements

It is generally laid down that a residence for a parish minister will consist of four bedrooms or equivalent which may include a sun porch as one bedroom.  Most indicate that at least three bedrooms will be double ones.  Provision is made for a study in the house and a garage or carport either as part of the total structure or in close proximity to the house.  In the case of the Churches of Christ and the Congregational Union no specific regulations are laid down as to overall size, but a free house is to be provided or a housing grant where this is not done.  (Hereafter where the term "all" is used it is to be understood as not including Churches of Christ and Congregational Union)

441.3 Details

a) Bedrooms
Built-in wardrobes are required or equivalents.  Blinds and/or drapes are generally to be supplied.  The Auckland, Waikato, Christchurch and Wellington dioceses and the Methodist and Presbyterian Churches specifically included this in their requirements.  The Methodist and Presbyterian Churches require carpets in all bedrooms.

b) Study
All require a study in the residence.  The Christchurch and Waiapu dioceses stipulate it may be left out of the residence if it is provided in an adjacent parish hall or church complex.  Adequate book shelving is a standard requirement and some lay down the need for suitable cupboards.  Carpet (or adequate floor covering) is a common stipulation and the same is true of blinds and/or drapes.  The Dunedin diocese and the Methodist Church require a suitable desk to be provided and the latter stipulates the provision of strong, comfortable chairs.  The Christchurch and Waikato dioceses and the Presbyterian and Methodist Churches require the provision of adequate heating.  All require a power point.

c) Lounge
All require carpet (or adequate floor covering), blinds and/or drapes.  Adequate heating.  (Presbyterian, Methodist, Christchurch diocese)

d) Living area (Dining room)
Floor coverings required, blinds and/or drapes is a common stipulation.  Adequate heating.  (Presbyterian, Methodist, Christchurch and Waikato dioceses)

e) Kitchen
All stress floor coverings - linoleum or tiles.  Gas or electric stove, refrigerator.  (with deep freeze area included - Presbyterian stipulation) Congregational Union indicates the provision of refrigerator and washing machine is the minister's responsibility.

f) Laundry
Linoleum on the floor and the provision of a standard type washing machine.  Tubs and suitable cupboards are also required.

g) General
Where there is a hall and/or stairway, provision is made for carpeting or adequate floor coverings.  A number of the Partners emphasise power points in every room, floor coverings for toilets and bathrooms.  The Methodist Church as a specific requirement for the provision of a shed with lawn mower, wheelbarrow and garden hose.  Some require space in the garage for tool storage etc.  The Waikato diocese requires a toolshed.  The Waiapu diocese indicates that "on appointment clergy are entitled to request from the vestry a cash grant (figure approved from time to time by the standing committee) for soft furnishings in addition to what is provided".  Free telephone and in most cases one extension is specified.

441.4 Conclusion

Where there is doubt about what is provided under regulation it is wise to seek clear directions from the appropriate denominational authorities.