Condo insurance (HO-6), explained
Your HOA's master policy stops at your walls. Here's what your own HO-6 condo policy needs to cover.
Condo insurance — an HO-6 policy — fills the gap between where your condo association's master policy ends and your personal responsibility begins. Understanding that line is the key to getting the right coverage.
How it works with your HOA
Your HOA's master policy typically covers the building structure and common areas — but usually only up to the walls of your unit ('walls-out'). Everything inside — your fixtures, finishes, and belongings — is generally on you. Read your HOA bylaws to see exactly where their coverage stops.
What HO-6 covers
- Interior of your unit — flooring, cabinets, fixtures and improvements ('walls-in').
- Personal property — your belongings.
- Liability — if someone is injured in your unit.
- Loss of use — living costs if your unit becomes uninhabitable.
- Loss assessment — your share of certain HOA master-policy shortfalls.
How much you need
Base your dwelling/interior amount on the cost to rebuild your unit's interior, and your personal property on the value of your belongings. Add enough liability (or an umbrella) to protect your assets, and consider loss assessment coverage in case the HOA's policy falls short after a big claim.
Frequently asked questions
The interior of your unit (fixtures, finishes, improvements), your personal belongings, personal liability, loss of use, and often loss assessment. The HOA master policy generally covers the building structure and common areas, not your unit's interior.
No. The HOA master policy typically covers the building and common areas only up to your walls. Your belongings, interior finishes and personal liability need your own HO-6 policy.
It helps pay your share when the HOA levies a special assessment after a covered loss that exceeds the master policy — a valuable add-on for condo owners.
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