If you have recently purchased a condo, your next step is to look at getting condo insurance. This is fairly straightforward, but you may want to keep a few things in mind that can help you get the best rates, while enjoying the most comprehensive coverage possible.
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.
There are many different areas where condo insurance may be more affordable, and there should be some wiggle room as far as pricing. One thing to ask about is the distance at which personal injury claims are covered under your insurance policy. A good range is one hundred and fifty feet. If the injury happens farther away than that it should be covered by the corporation policy. Since personal injury claims can be expensive, this may help you to lower your insurance costs.
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.
Condo insurance does not need to be intimidating or break the bank. By shopping around, comparing rates, and exploring your options, you should be able to ensure you are well taken care of.
Author: Ken Henry can help you find the solutions to your insurance questions. Get homeowners insurance advice and quotes from 5 top companies, plus save big money on auto and homeowners insurance