Condo Insurance vs. Homeowner’s Insurance: What’s the Difference?
Did you know that there are distinct differences between condo and home insurance? While homeowners’ insurance is not mandatory, 93% of homeowners protect themselves against unforeseeable damages.
However, there are some significant differences between the policies, and if you live in a condo, you might be able to have a more affordable insurance policy.
You may wonder what the difference is between condo and homeowner’s insurance. While both protect from damage to your property, some key differences make it important to understand which type of policy best fits your needs.
Learn more about condo insurance vs. homeowner’s insurance today by reading this article.
Condo Insurance vs. Homeowner’s Insurance: Main Differences
Homeowners in New Jersey have many options to choose from when it comes to insurance. It can be confusing when considering which type to purchase.
Homeowner’s insurance gives more coverage.
Condo insurance (HO-6) is often less expensive than traditional homeowner’s insurance because it only covers the unit or structure. It does not cover a condominium complex’s entire property or common areas.
Let’s examine some of the main differences in each coverage below.
Dwelling Coverage
Dwelling coverage is drastically different between these policies. Homeowner’s coverage generally covers an entire property and its contents. At the same time, condo owners are more limited in what their dwelling coverage will encompass.
Generally, these policies only cover the interior of a condo itself. They do not cover structures connected to the unit, such as balconies or secondary structures like detached garages. The walls and grounding of the building may also be excluded from certain types of coverage.
It is always important to ask the right question when deciding on the right type of insurance for you in New Jersey.
This can include:
- What is the cost per year?
- What does the add-on cover?
- What are the exceptions under the policy?
Liability Coverage
One key difference that should be noted is liability coverage. Condo insurance offers liability protection which may cover damage caused by
- You
- Your family members
- Your pets
These damages can be to someone else’s property or injuries caused to another person while present on your property. Homeowners’ insurance policies are more general regarding their liability coverage. However, they do not always provide separately for a condo owner.
As such, a condo owner should look for additional liability coverage for their new home or other indemnity means.
Personal Property Coverage
New Jersey residents living in condominiums need to understand their insurance coverage. As well as the differences between condo insurance and homeowner’s insurance policies.
Condo insurance typically covers personal property. This often includes furniture and belongings.
Condo insurance includes coverage against losses caused by:
- Fire
- Smoke damage
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Other specified perils
However, it generally does not cover damages related to flooding or earthquakes.
Homeowner’s insurance in New Jersey usually provides higher levels of protection for personal property. However, it may also offer additional benefits. This can include replacement cost coverage for damaged or destroyed items inside the home.
Loss Assessment Coverage
The two policies have significantly distinct differences regarding loss assessment coverage.
Sometimes, other people in your building might have something happen to their home, and the whole building has to pay for it. But if you have homeowner’s insurance, you will not have this issue because you live in a house and not a condo.
Condo insurance does not cover losses in areas where people are responsible for paying their share of the assessment after a claim has been paid. People need to know this before they sign up for any property-related insurance in New Jersey.
New Jersey Condo Insurance Cost and Coverage
Purchasing condo insurance in New Jersey can be an affordable and smart choice to protect your condo. The cost of condo insurance is typically priced at a very reasonable rate and covers many potential issues. It usually includes coverage for:
- Lost belongings
- Damage to the interior of the unit
- Liability issues
Some policies may even provide additional coverage, such as medical payment coverage or loss of use resulting from Temporary Living Expenses.
Before you invest in condo insurance in NJ, it’s wise to carefully
- Investigate what new regulations might be in effect
- Review available policies
- Research providers
- Compare quotes
New Jersey Homeowner’s Insurance Cost and Coverage
Homeowner’s insurance is an important investment for those living in New Jersey. The costs and coverage vary depending on the following:
- Type of property
- Amount of coverage purchased
- Risk assessment
Purchasing new homeowners’ insurance can be a time-consuming process. With the proper research, it can be well worth the effort to make sure your property and items are properly covered against potential damages or losses.
Searching for competitive quotes from reliable insurers is essential in finding the best cost and coverage for your new home. In addition, investing in homeowner’s insurance is a wise decision that can save you hundreds of dollars in case disaster strikes.
Get Insurance in New Jersey Today
It is essential for anyone living in New Jersey to understand the differences between condo insurance vs. homeowner’s insurance policies. Condo insurance typically covers personal property. At the same time, homeowner’s insurance offers higher levels of protection with additional benefits such as replacement cost coverage.
Finding competitive quotes from reliable insurers can be time-consuming, but McMahon Insurance can help! Get started today and get a quote on the right condo or homeowner’s insurance plan that will protect you against potential damages or losses at an affordable rate.