When you buy a condo, protecting your space is just as important as it is with a traditional home. However, the type of insurance you need works a little differently. At Friant Insurance Agency in Temecula, CA, we often receive questions from new condo owners about how condo insurance compares to standard homeowners insurance—and it’s a great question to ask.
You’re Not Covering the Whole Building
With homeowners insurance, you’re typically responsible for insuring the entire structure, inside and out. In contrast, with a condo, the building itself and common areas like hallways, elevators, and roofs are usually covered by the condo association’s master policy. Your individual condo insurance policy focuses more on the interior of your unit, including flooring, built-in appliances, and sometimes even the walls, depending on the association’s policy type.
Personal Property and Liability Coverage
Just like with a traditional home, you’ll need coverage for your personal belongings, such as furniture, electronics, clothing, and more. Condo insurance also includes personal liability protection, which helps cover you if someone is injured inside your unit or if you accidentally cause damage to another unit.
Understand the Master Policy
Before selecting your condo insurance, it’s crucial to review your association’s master policy. Some master policies are “walls-in,” meaning they cover certain interior items, while others stop at the bare walls. Knowing where the association’s coverage ends will help you avoid gaps in protection and surprises if you ever need to file a claim.
Condo insurance may differ from homeowners insurance, but it’s no less important. If you’re unsure about the type of protection you need, Friant Insurance Agency in Temecula, CA is here to guide you through the process, step by step.