Condo Associations vs. Unit Owner Coverage in Florida and New York

Owning a condominium in Florida or New York comes with unique insurance considerations. Many condo owners assume that the condo association’s insurance covers everything—but that’s not always the case. Understanding the difference between association coverage and unit owner coverage is critical to protecting your property and finances.

What Condo Association Insurance Covers

Condo associations typically maintain an insurance policy for the building and common areas, including:

- Exterior structures: roof, walls, and siding

- Common areas: lobbies, hallways, pools, and gyms

- Liability protection for accidents in shared spaces

This coverage ensures that damage to shared property or injury in common areas is protected—but it does not always cover your personal belongings or interior damage inside your unit.

What Unit Owner Coverage Includes

As a unit owner, your own policy often called an HO-6 policy —typically covers:

- Personal property: furniture, electronics, and valuables

- Interior structure: improvements, fixtures, cabinets, and flooring

- Personal liability: incidents inside your unit or involving guests

- Additional living expenses: if your unit becomes temporarily uninhabitable

 

Without unit owner coverage, you could be responsible for damage inside your condo that is not covered by the association’s policy.

Florida Condo Insurance Considerations

Florida presents unique challenges due to hurricanes, flooding, and high winds. Key points for condo owners include:

- Confirm what the association’s policy covers vs. what you need for your unit

- Consider windstorm or flood coverage if not included in the association’s policy

- Ensure your personal property and interior are adequately insured

Because many Florida condos are near coastal areas, unit owners may face higher risks and premiums without proper coverage.

New York Condo Insurance Considerations

In New York, condo owners often deal with older buildings, co-op conversions, and dense urban living. Important considerations include:

- Assessing building upgrades: older structures may require additional coverage for interior improvements

- Liability coverage for common spaces and neighboring units

- Understanding whether the association’s deductible could affect you in case of damage

Urban New York condos often require HO-6 policies that complement association coverage, ensuring gaps are addressed.

Key Takeaways for Condo Owners

1. Know what the association’s insurance covers —don’t assume it includes your personal belongings or interior improvements.

2. Purchase unit owner coverage (HO-6 policy) to protect your personal property, interior, and liability.

3. Review policies regularly, especially in high-risk areas like Florida or older buildings in New York.

4. Ask your insurance agent questions about flood, wind, and liability coverage for full protection.

Work With Michaels Insurance Group for Condo Coverage

 

Whether you own a condo in Florida or New York, navigating association and unit owner insurance can be complex. Michaels Insurance Group helps condo owners:

- Compare coverage options

- Identify gaps between association and unit policies

- Select the right insurance for their home and lifestyle

We make it simple to ensure your condo and your belongings are fully protected.

Get a Free Condo Insurance Quote Today

Don’t leave your condo coverage to chance. Protect your unit and personal property with the right insurance policy.

📞 Call Michaels Insurance Group today for a free quote

(631) 629-2233
(386) 274-8150

✔️ No obligation
✔️ Free quote

Let us help you protect your condo in Florida or New York with confidence.