If you have recently made arrangements to purchase a condo, you will need to think about condo insurance. This is not only to protect your own investment, but to help meet your responsibilities as a unit holder within the condo corporation.
The first question that you need to ask is what is covered under the condominium corporation insurance policy, and what will need to be covered under your personal policy. Generally, only items owned by the condominium corporation will be covered by their insurance policy. This includes stairwells, elevators, items in the lobby, hallways and external fixtures such as roofing.
Another thing to ask is what your condominium insurance covers. You need to know that upgrades to your unit, such as improved flooring, are not normally covered by the corporation policy. Like a homeowners policy, you may also need to make special arrangements to include luxury vehicles or items stored off the premises.
Because you have responsibilities to the condominium complex, you will need to make sure that you are able to meet those requirements through your insurance policy. Specific condo insurance policies reflect that in their wording, but you should make sure that the insurance policy you choose will mesh well with your unit holder responsibilities.
One aspect to condo insurance that differs from homeowners insurance is the distance from the residence that injury claims are covered. In homes, this should include the property, but in condo insurance this is often a much shorter distance. Condo insurance will cover personal injury that occurs within one hundred and fifty feet of the door. As you can see, this is one area where there is a significant difference between condo insurance and homeowners insurance.
Another question that you might want to ask your condo corporation is who is covering their portion of the insurance. You may find that you can get a deal if you also sign on with this company. If you do so, this can help make sure that your coverage is seamless and there are no gaps between the corporation’s coverage and your own. If you do not choose to go with the same company, see if you can get a copy of the policy so that you can show it to your own company. This will ensure that there are no gaps or missed areas.
As you can see, condo insurance coverage can be somewhat more complex than a regular homeowner’s policy. You may have options as to your coverage and the details of your policy, such as a higher or lower deductible. Make sure that you are getting a policy specifically designed for a condo living situation so that you know your coverage is up to date and comprehensive enough to cover you properly.
By shopping smart when you purchase condo insurance, you can find a great deal that makes sure that you and your belongings are covered in the event of a fire or other damage.
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