Condo Structure Insurance and Ceiling Liability

A condo's structure includes the building's exterior, walls, and roof, but what about the ceiling? In a condo, the ceiling is typically considered part of the unit's interior, not the building's structure. This distinction is crucial when it comes to insurance coverage.

The condo association's master policy usually covers the building's structure, including the roof, but may not cover interior elements like ceilings. This means that condo owners are often responsible for insuring their own ceilings, which can be a surprise to many homeowners.

In some cases, condo owners may be required to carry additional insurance coverage for their ceilings, depending on the condo's bylaws and insurance policies. This is usually the case when the condo association's master policy has a ceiling liability clause.

For example, if a condo owner's ceiling is damaged due to a leaky roof, the condo association's master policy may cover the cost of repairing the roof, but not the cost of repairing the ceiling itself. In this scenario, the condo owner would be responsible for paying for the ceiling repairs out of pocket.

Suggestion: How to Find Out If My Condo Association Has Insurance

Condo insurance operates a little differently than homeowners insurance. Since most condo associations in Florida are bound by Florida Statute 718, the condo association will obtain coverage for the building and common areas.

Unit owners are generally only able to insure the interior "livable" portion of their units, not including structural elements of the building. You may sometimes hear condo insurance referred to as "contents-only" or "walls-in" coverage.

Here's what's covered under condo insurance:

Removable appliances, furniture, accessories, clothing, and electronics are covered under section C of the condo insurance policy.

Condo vs. Homeowner's Insurance operates differently, with condo associations covering the building and common areas, while unit owners insure the interior "livable" portion of their units.

The condo association's policy typically covers building elements like drywall, studs, electrical wiring, and air conditioning systems. These are the condo association's responsibility, not the unit owner's.

Unit owners are only responsible for insuring the interior elements of their unit, such as finished flooring, moldings, wall finishes, countertops, cabinets, and permanently installed fixtures and appliances.

Recommended read: Condo Association Insurance Coverage

Removable appliances, furniture, accessories, clothing, and electronics are considered "personal property" and are covered under section C of the condo insurance policy.

Certain collectibles, high-valued items, and jewelry may not be covered unless specifically listed and extra premium is paid.

Here's a breakdown of what's typically covered by a condo association's policy and a unit owner's policy:

In the event of a claim, it's essential to notify the condo association to ensure a smooth and efficient process. The condo association's policy may have a high deductible, but they're still responsible for making repairs.