
Whether you’re buying a single-family home or a condominium, one thing remains essential—protecting your investment with the right insurance coverage. While both condo and homeowners policies serve similar purposes, they offer different protections due to the unique nature of each property type.
If you’re wondering whether condo insurance is the same as homeowners insurance, the short answer is: not quite. Let's explore the key differences so you can choose the right policy with confidence.
Homeowner insurance covers your entire property—including the structure of the home, the land it sits on, and everything inside. It’s designed for standalone houses where you are fully responsible for the building, outdoor areas, and liability associated with the property.
The structure (roof, walls, foundation)
Personal belongings (furniture, electronics, clothing)
Detached structures (garages, fences, sheds)
Personal liability coverage (for injuries on your property)
Loss of use (expenses if your home becomes temporarily unlivable)
Optional add-ons like Sewer Backup Coverage Repairs
Condo insurance—also called HO-6 insurance—is tailored for condo unit owners. When you buy a condo, you typically own only the interior of your unit. The exterior, common areas, and sometimes certain internal structures are covered by your condominium association’s master policy.
Interior walls, ceilings, and floors (if not covered by the HOA master policy)
Fixtures and built-in appliances
Personal belongings
Liability for injuries that happen inside your unit
Loss of use and temporary housing
Optional endorsements like Sewer Backup Coverage Repairs for plumbing or drainage issues within your unit
Feature | Homeowners Insurance | Condo Insurance |
---|---|---|
Covers the building structure | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Only interior (not shared/exterior) |
Covers the land | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Personal belongings | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Liability protection | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (for unit only) |
Loss of use | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Sewer Backup Coverage Repairs | Optional (Highly recommended) | Optional (especially for shared plumbing) |