Florida Condo Insurance: What Your HOA Covers and What You Need
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Licensed Insurance Agent · Tueri Insurance Agency
Understanding Florida Condo Insurance
Condo insurance in Florida is more complex than standard homeowners insurance because coverage is split between the condo association's master policy and your individual HO-6 policy. Understanding this split — and the gaps it can create — is essential for every Florida condo owner.
What the HOA Master Policy Covers
Your condo association carries a master insurance policy that covers the building's common areas and structure. However, the extent of coverage for individual units varies significantly based on the type of master policy:
Bare Walls Coverage
The most basic type of master policy, bare walls coverage protects only the building structure up to the bare walls of each unit. Everything inside your unit — flooring, cabinets, fixtures, appliances, and personal property — is your responsibility.
Original Specifications Coverage
This type of master policy covers the unit as it was originally built, including standard fixtures and finishes. Upgrades you've made (better flooring, custom cabinets, upgraded appliances) are not covered.
All-In Coverage
The most comprehensive master policy type, all-in coverage protects the unit including all fixtures and finishes, even upgrades. Your HO-6 policy primarily needs to cover personal property and liability.
What Your HO-6 Policy Should Cover
Regardless of your HOA's master policy type, your individual HO-6 condo insurance policy should address:
- Interior coverage: Walls, floors, ceilings, fixtures, and built-ins not covered by the master policy
- Personal property: Your furniture, electronics, clothing, and other belongings
- Personal liability: Protection if someone is injured in your unit or you cause damage to another unit
- Loss assessment coverage: Protection against special assessments levied by your HOA after a major loss
- Additional living expenses: Coverage for temporary housing if your unit is uninhabitable after a covered loss
Loss Assessment Coverage: Often Overlooked
Loss assessment coverage is one of the most important — and most overlooked — components of Florida condo insurance. If your HOA's master policy has insufficient coverage after a major storm, the association can levy a special assessment against all unit owners to cover the shortfall.
After Hurricane Ian, for example, some condo associations in Southwest Florida levied assessments of $10,000–$50,000 or more per unit. Loss assessment coverage in your HO-6 policy can protect you from these unexpected costs.
Flood Insurance for Condos
Like standard homeowners insurance, condo insurance does not cover flood damage. Your HOA's master policy may include flood coverage for common areas, but individual unit flood coverage typically requires a separate policy. In Florida's flood-prone environment, this is worth serious consideration.